How to ensure the composition of the gold-plated spring-loaded Pogo Pin?
The main function of the spring thimble connector depends on the applied equipment, it must have a certain degree of resistance to pressure and unique functions. The emergence and development of spring thimble connectors are because traditional connectors are easily damaged in harsh environments, resulting in reduced efficiency in use. However, for such an environment, whether it is repair or replacement, it also increases the cost. In this case, the spring thimble connector gradually replaced the ordinary connector.
Compared with ordinary connectors, spring thimble connectors have the advantages of long service life, small size, and easy installation. The spring thimble is a particularly small component, and its process and production technology requirements are particularly high. The electroplating of a spring thimble has a direct impact on the quality of a finished product, and it can also determine whether a product is of good quality or is scrapped.
The spring thimble consists of a needle, a needle tube, and a spring. The spring of the pogo pin is usually made of beryllium copper, stainless steel, and piano steel wire. Various materials have unique characteristics. Generally, there are some basic considerations when designing the spring: working temperature, impedance, elasticity requirements, etc. The spring is basically silver-plated. For better electroplating, it can directly affect the conductivity of a spring thimble connector. Gold-plated treatment. Gold can better improve electrical conductivity and high thermal performance, as well as anti-oxidation and corrosion.
The needle tube of the spring thimble is a deep-turned part. Generally, it needs to pass through two steps of nickel plating and gold plating when electroplating it. First, the nickel bottom treatment is required. The normal thickness is 1~2 microns (as usual, 40u" = 1 micron ), gold plating is an ordinary surface treatment layer, the thickness is basically 0.1~1.0 microns. For small-diameter and relatively long blind-hole tubes, it is a challenge when electroplating the inner wall. Generally, side holes are opened at the bottom end to make the electroplating liquid Fully form a backflow at the bottom of the tube to ensure that the inner wall of the tube is deposited on the bottom of the gold composition. Or inform the customer of the basic ratio of the design: length to the inner diameter of the tube.
The needle shaft of the spring thimble is basically gold-plated, which is the preferred treatment method because gold has excellent conductivity and oxidation resistance. In addition, the thickness of the gold plating has a certain impact on the life of the entire product. In addition to cost considerations, some will choose the thickness of nickel-base treatment and gold plating. As with some other electroplating solutions, such as rhodium plating, palladium, and some noble materials, different products will have different requirements.