Semi-Automated Workstation Makes Plating Process More Efficient
Powell Electrical Systems Inc.’s Delta/Unibus Division has reduced the process time taken to selectively plate each side of its copper bus bars by 90%, saving approximately $100,000 in labor costs, thanks to a semi-automated workstation developed by SIFCO Applied Surface Concepts (ASC).
Copper bus bars play an important role in conducting electricity through distribution networks within the power generation industry and, therefore, need to be manufactured to an exacting standard that permits carrying very high currents across mating bus connections with minimal contact resistance. The industry practice to decrease electrical contact resistance at the mating bus connections is to electroplate them with a suitable material, such as silver or tin, before they are installed in the system.