On August 19, the fem research institute received a Fischerscope Xan Liquid Analyzer from Fischer for the in-situ and online analysis of element concentrations. It enables fem to monitor dynamics in the concentration distribution.
Copper-tin-zinc electrolyte investigated
The first application to be investigated is a Miralloy electrolyte from Umicore. This copper-tin-zinc electrolyte has been used for decades as a nickel-free alternative for connectors, costume jewelry and clothing and is therefore an integral part of everyday life.
Carrying out coating processes in a more resource-friendly way
After the element analysis, the measurement results are automated and transmitted to the fem's control system via a Profinet data interface. This makes the device an important piece of the puzzle on the way to the smart factory in the context of Industry 4.0. The measurement data obtained as a function of time is correlated with the geometrically different parts and compared with coating thickness measurements. This may enable coating processes to be better understood in the future and carried out in a more resource-efficient and cost-optimized manner.