As part of LDC's ongoing efforts to respond to our customers' needs, we
have redesigned our "S" series handles and improved our line of anode adapters.
THE HANDLES: Our initial goal was to lower the
handle's weight thereby reducing operator fatigue. This was accomplished while still
utilizing corrosion resistant, quality stainless steel materials. The insulating coating
was upgraded to a longer lasting baked on material. This coating is black to distinguish
it from the older style blue handles (in other respects, it looks very similar). Finally,
we wanted to upgrade the output lead connection method. The banana plug has been our
standard "S" series handle electrical connector. It is inexpensive and easy to
use, but wears out and/or breaks very quickly. In addition, the banana plug is designed to
carry a maximum of 15 amps.
The new handles have integrated the Cam Lock type receptacle. So, the handles have two
holes: one for a banana plug and one for the Cam Lock type connector. The Cam Lock type
receptacle accepts LDC's 2M Connector (product code PPA802). The 2M can carry far more
amperage (up to 60 amps), is far more durable, and when used properly, will not pull out
of the handle (cutting the electrical circuit and damaging the part being plated).
This 2M connector is now an option when ordering new leads or as a replacement part for
the banana plug on your existing leads.
The product codes for the new black handles will remain the same:
- HP-100 - S 1 1/8 Handle
- HP-101 - S 1 1/4 Handle
- HP-102 - S 1 1/2 Handle
- HP-103 - SA Handle (1/4-20 thread)
THE ADAPTERS: Some LDC customers might be
familiar with our product the "A" Adapter (HP-107), which allows the user to
convert an old style S 1/2 handle to an SA handle (1/4-20 thread) without having to buy a
complete new handle.
With the introduction of LDC's new black handles, we wanted to expand and improve this
adapter concept. The S 1/2 handle is by far the most popular LDC handle; for this reason,
the new adapters are designed to work with this handle.
LDC's black S 1/2 handle shown
here with the new Adapters
We now offer adapters in three different sizes. By using the adapters, the operator has
the flexibility to use the proper size anodes for each job, but doesn't incur the cost of
having a complete set of each type of handle (S 1/8, S 1/4, S 1/2, & SA).
The new adapters and part numbers are:
- HP-111 Adapter 1/8
- Accepts rod anodes approx. 1/8" (3.1mm) in diameter
- HP-112 Adapter 1/4
- Accepts rod annodes approx. 1/4" (6.3mm) in diameter
- HP-113 Adapter SA
- Accepts any annode that uses a 1/4-20 thread connection
Having one set each of black S 1/2 handles and these adapters, allows the
operator to utilize 60% of all LDC' standard anodes plus and endless array of
custom anodes.
UNIQUE SWIVEL ADAPTERS: These adapters
enable the anode to rotate during the plating process. The swivel adapter fits into the S
1/2 or the SA handle and accepts any anode with a 1/4-20 thread connection.
The LDC swivel adapter fits both
the S 1/2 and the SA 1/4-20 handle
Ideally suited for plating internal diameters using LDC's HRI (half round ) series
anodes, the swivel adapter helps the plater maintain consistent anode to cathode contact
and minimizes operator fatigue by doing much of the work for the plater. All the plater
has to do is move the handle in a smooth circular motion; the swivel adapter does the work
of moving the anode in conformance with the part.
Plating Hints
If your turning head or chuck is being corroded by brush plating solutions, you may
want to consider a teflon coating process that will protect your equipment. LDC can teflon
coat your existing equipment, or quote you on a new teflon coated chuck. All of LDC's
premium turning head chucks are teflon coated. For more information, contact us.
Winter Hazards
In many parts of the world, cold weather is on its way. With the cold weather, comes
the possibility that LDC solutions will freeze during shipment.
When solutions freeze, a "salting out" occurs; this is the precipitation of
dissolved salts. If this occurs, you can usually restore the solutions to full
effectiveness by redissolving the salts (see pg. 30 of the LDC Manual). If the salts are
not dissolved the solution cannot be expected to perform to the normal specifications.
To avoid this hassle, you can request heated shipments (which require very large orders)
or order enough plating solution now, to get you through until spring. For example, if you
normally order 2 gallons of nickel a month, you could order 10 gallons (in drums) now.
This will save you money and time. The solutions will arrive intact, you will avoid
packing fees, and you will save money on shipping costs. Consider this alternative!
New Instruction Book
LDC has a new, updated instruction booklet (mini-manual). Available free of charge, this
easy reference booklet contains many of the highlights from the LDC Instruction manual.
The following is a partial list from the table of contents:
- Formulas/calculations
- Preliminary job preparations
- Base metal preparatory procedures
- Evaluating plating deposits
- Mechanical finishing
At the end of the booklet are blank lined pages for your notes (perfect for jotting
down technical advice on your unique plating applications).
For your free copy, contact LDC or W.R.
Associates today.
Visit The LDC Archives of past newsletters
W.R. Associates is also on the web at www.wrainc.com. E-mail us with your comments and
opinions.
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