Shape optimization of nickel anodes used in the production of galvanic coatings of rocket engine

Production of electroplates of rocket engines traditionally uses hot-rolled sheet nickel anodes, the main disadvantages of which are: small specific surface, high volume of anode scrap formation. The purpose of the study is to investigate and develop the process of cathode electroforming of spherical deposits and their subsequent usage as soluble nickel anodes. A laboratory setup and cathode mount of original design was developed for the generation of spherical deposits. Cathode deposits of spherical shape with 0.9-1.2 cm diameter and fine profile and surface quality were obtained as a result of the experiment. Utilizing spherical anodes in nickel electroplate coating production showed that this process is accompanied by 98-99% dissolution of loaded anode mass with the reduction of specific cost almost by 25%. © 2020, Univelt Inc. All rights reserved.