Continuous Strip Or Filament Electrode Patents (Class 204/206)
  • Publication number: 20020011419
    Abstract: The present invention provides an electrodeposition apparatus for continuously forming a film of an oxide on a substrate by electrodeposition, wherein an electrodeposition tank for retaining an electrodeposition bath is formed of a metal and the inside of the electrodeposition tank is kept electrically floating. This can form a uniform oxide film without irregularities on the substrate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 17, 1999
    Publication date: January 31, 2002
    Inventors: KOZO ARAO, NOBORU TOYAMA, YUICHI SONODA, YUSUKE MIYAMOTO
  • Patent number: 6338780
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing a metallic fiber in which from a convergent extended wire, which is formed by a metallic fiber and a matrix member which is formed of a metallic material and whose dissolvability is higher than the dissolvability of the metallic fiber, the matrix member is continuously dissolved and removed by an electrolytic processing in a plurality of electrolytic tanks which are arranged in the conveying direction of the convergent extended wire, wherein: the convergent extended wire is passed through electrolytes in the plurality of electrolytic tanks, which are arranged in the shape of a gentle convex arch at the vertical direction upper side which includes the conveying passage of the convergent extended wire, the convergent extended wire is passed above a plurality of feeding devices which are provided at the outer sides of the electrolytes and which are disposed in the same arch-shape so as to correspond to the electrolytic tanks, in each of the plurality of electrolytic tanks, the metallic
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2002
    Assignee: Bridgestone Metalpha Corporation
    Inventors: Tadashi Takahashi, Yukio Aoike, Tatsuo Hirayama
  • Publication number: 20010052464
    Abstract: An electrochemical reaction assembly and methods of inducing electrochemical reactions, such as for deposition of materials on semiconductor substrates. The assembly and method achieve a highly uniform thickness and composition of deposition material or uniform etching or polishing on the semiconductor substrates by retaining the semiconductor substrates on a moving cathode immersed in an appropriate reaction solution wherein a wire mesh anode rotates about the moving cathode during electrochemical reaction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 9, 2001
    Publication date: December 20, 2001
    Inventors: Salman Akram, David R. Hembree
  • Patent number: 6325912
    Abstract: This invention provides an apparatus and a method capable of electrolyzing a metal web at a high treating speed and high current density without a problem of uneven treatment, which a metal web is wound, arc-shaped electrodes allocated on the outside of the drum roller concentrically with a space, and an electrolytic solution put in the space, wherein the drum roller is made movable in the vertical direction, and a method using the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2001
    Assignee: Fuji Photo Film Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Tsuyoshi Hirokawa, Toru Yamazaki
  • Patent number: 6325913
    Abstract: This invention relates to an improved apparatus and method for electrolytic descaling of steel strips. The apparatus comprises electrodes integrated with nozzles having jet openings for dispensing electrolyte onto the surface of the steel strips. By jetting the electrolyte to the steel strip in the air and applying a voltage to the electrode, the scale on the surface of the steel strip is removed. This jetting of electrolyte reduces the size requirement of the electrolyte tank storing the electrolyte because the required quantity of electrolyte decreases. The present invention does not require immersion of the electrodes in the electrolyte and thus avoids the problem of short-circuiting that occurs with submerged electrodes. This results in a significant improvement in electric power efficiency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2001
    Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.
    Inventors: Katsumi Mabuchi, Tomoko Kikuchi, Yasunobu Kani, Tsuneo Nakamura, Shinichi Yokosuka
  • Patent number: 6322673
    Abstract: Apparatus for use in a continuous electrochemical treating line and a method for electrochemically treating at least one surface of a continuous web moving through an electrolyte solution contained within a tank. The apparatus includes at least one electrode extending across the surface of the continuous web in combination with at least two rigid, non-conductive, and non-polar bumper devices also extending the continuous web surface. The bumper devices include a slick contact surface positioned against the continuous web surface at spaced apart locations that prevent the continuous web from moving outside a pass-line through the electrolyte solution and arcing against the electrode. The bumper devices may comprise either a bumper strip or a conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2001
    Assignee: Electroplating Technologies, Ltd.
    Inventor: James L. Forand
  • Publication number: 20010042687
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing a positive electrode foil of an aluminum electrolytic capacitor is provided in which anodizing conditions are optimally determined and automatically set to minimize the loss of production and to produce a constant quality of the positive electrode foil. The method comprises an etching process and an anodizing process. An etched foil produced in the etching process is subjected to a constant current inspection, and then, the anodizing conditions are determined from the result of the constant current inspection. The anodizing conditions are transferred to a control panel in the anodizing process where they are automatically registered as its settings. Also, an apparatus for manufacturing the positive electrode foil is provided which has a voltage sensor connected between an output running roller and cathode electrodes in an anodizing tank. A voltage measured by the voltage sensor is fed back to a direct-current source for controlling its output voltage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 3, 2001
    Publication date: November 22, 2001
    Inventors: Mitsuhisa Yoshimura, Kazuaki Nakanishi, Kenji Yoshida, Seita Takahashi, Hiroyuki Nakano, Naomi Kurihara, Katsuyuki Nakamura, Masanori Okabayashi, Takahiro Suzuki
  • Patent number: 6319383
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device and a method for evening out the thickness of metal layers on electrical contact points on flat items to be treated 7, such as conductor foil and printed circuit boards, during the electrolytic treatment of the items to be treated, guided in a horizontal plane of conveyance in a continuous electroplating plant. The device has counter-electrodes 2, 3 located opposite the plane of conveyance and clamps 4, secured to a continuously revolving means of conveyance 5, for contacting the items to be treated 7. The clamps 4 have a lower portion 14 and an upper portion 13 which are electrically conductive, have a surface consisting of metal, are moveable in relation to one another and respectively have at least one contact point 6 for the items to be treated 7. In addition, at least one current source is provided to produce a flow of current between the counter-electrodes and the items to be treated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2001
    Assignee: Atotech Deutschland GmbH
    Inventors: Lorenz Kopp, Peter Langheinrich, Reinhard Schneider
  • Patent number: 6306268
    Abstract: A device (1) for carrying out continuous electrolytic precipitation processes has a cathodic live cylinder (3) whose top surface is electroconductive over its whole useful width. An anode A is arranged concentrically to and spaced apart from the cathodic live cylinder (3). An electrolyte flows through the space (6) separating the live cylinder (3) from the anode A. Shielding strips (9, 9′) associated to the live cylinder (3) are located between the cathodic surface of the live cylinder (3) and the anode A and electrically shield the marginal regions of the live cylinder (3), thus protecting them from electrolytic coating. The useful region N of the live cylinder (3) for carrying out the electrolytic precipitation processes is located between the shielding strips (9, 9′).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2001
    Assignees: Circuit Foil, S.A. of Luxemburg, Andritz-Patentverwaltungs-Gesellschaft mbH,
    Inventors: Hans Josef May, Roland Schnettler, Michel Collard
  • Patent number: 6291080
    Abstract: Copper foil produced on a rotating drum cathode machine, wherein each of the outer edge portions of a web of the foil has a thickness greater than the thickness of the central portion of the web. In the process and apparatus used to electrodeposit the foil on a drum cathode, electric current is passed through an electrolyte to the cathode from outboard edge anodes at a current density greater than the current density passed from a central anode to the cathode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2001
    Assignee: Yates Foll USA, Inc.
    Inventors: Charles B. Yates, George Gaskill
  • Patent number: 6235180
    Abstract: Method and appartus suitable for forming promptly a phosphate film of excellent performance for cold drawing on the steel wires are disclosed. The steel wires are descaled by cathodic electrolysis in acid solution, and thereafter, phosphate film are formed by cathodic electrolysis on the steel wires. Contacting with the solution containing colloidal titanium are preferable to be carried out between cathodic descaling process and phosphate film forming process. Descaling of cathodic electrolysis may preferably be performed in acid solution at a temperature of lower than 90° C. and in 1˜100 A/dm2. Phosphate film forming may preferably be performed by using electrolyte containing Zn ion, phosphoric acid ion and nitric acid ion, at a temperature of lower than 90° C., in 1˜100 A/dm2 and for 1˜30 seconds.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2001
    Assignees: Nihon Parkerizing Co., Ltd., Fujisyouji Kabushikigaisha
    Inventors: Naoyuki Kobayashi, Atsushi Moriyama, Shigemasa Takagi, Tomoaki Katsumata
  • Patent number: 6217736
    Abstract: The apparatus according to the invention is used for electrolytically treating a board-shaped substrate to be treated, preferably printed circuit boards, in a continuous system, through which the item to be treated is guidable in a plane of conveyance in a substantially horizontal direction of conveyance, the apparatus having counter-electrodes (2), which are situated substantially parallel to one another opposite the plane of conveyance, and screens (11) for shielding from high current density fields in the edge region of the item to be treated (1), said screens being disposed between the plane of conveyance and the counter-electrodes, the screens each being in the form of at least two flat portions (12,13), which are disposed substantially parallel to each other, one portion (13) of the screens being disposed so as to lie opposite the plane of conveyance, and the other portion (12) being disposed so as to lie opposite the counter-electrodes, and the screens being mounted so as to be displaceable in a direct
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2001
    Assignee: Atotech Deutschland GmbH
    Inventors: Lorenz Kopp, Wolfang Plöse, Ralf-Peter Wachter
  • Patent number: 6200452
    Abstract: A method and an apparatus for the continuous chromium-plating of elongated members such as bars and the like: the bar to be plated is fed and rotated through at least one tubular shaped chromium-plating anode into which an electrolytic solution suitable for depositing a layer of chromium on the bar, as the latter advances through the said anode, is supplied. The electrolytic solution is supplied into the anode from the bottom upwards, through sets of holes over the bottom and the upper surfaces of the anode; the bottom holes communicate with a pressure balancing and flow distribution chamber for the electrolytic solution. This results in an electrolytic flow upwardly directed in a perpendicular direction to the longitudinal axis of the bar, the temperature of which may be controlled by changing the flow rate of the electrolytic solution circulating inside the anode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2001
    Inventor: Giovanna Angelini
  • Patent number: 6187166
    Abstract: A method and system for electroplating a metal coating onto a continuous part, such as the leadframe stock used in packaging integrated circuits, whereby the method comprises plating metal from a series of plating baths having the same or compatible chemical composition, supplying a continuous electrical connection between the D.C. power supply via a rotating contact held in intimate contact with the cathode, and cooling the contact by using the plating solution itself.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2001
    Assignee: Texas Instruments Incorporated
    Inventors: Paul R. Moehle, David M. Drew, Stephen J. Smith
  • Patent number: 6183607
    Abstract: An electrodeposition cell for electrodepositing metal onto a surface of a rotating drum that is partially immersed in an electrolytic solution. The cell includes an anode comprised of a main anode body portion and an anode extension portion. The main anode body portion has an arcuate main anode body surface having a radius of curvature slightly larger than the radius of curvature of the drum. The main anode body portion is totally immersed in the electrolytic solution adjacent the drum wherein a generally uniform gap is formed therebetween. The anode extension portion has an anode extension surface facing the drum and at least one opening extending therethrough. The anode extension portion is disposed within the electrolytic solution wherein a portion thereof extends above the electrolytic solution and the electrolytic solution can flow through the opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2001
    Assignee: GA-TEK Inc.
    Inventors: Sidney J. Clouser, Jiangtao Wang, John C. Briggs, Michael L. Stevens
  • Patent number: 6149791
    Abstract: A process and apparatus for the selective electroplating of electrical coct elements, used for coating at least one contact surface of a metal base for the contact elements with an electrolyte, containing a material with a higher conductivity as compared to the base. The electrolyte is applied with a long stretched-out plastic electroplating tip which has a plurality of channel passages through which the electrolyte passes and which are arranged at a right angle to the tip. The plurality of channel passages terminates at and empties into at least one discharge opening which extends along the entire length of the tip. The electroplating tip, when it is in the operating position, is arranged such that the at least one discharge opening is positioned on the bottom and extends horizontally. The electrolyte is supplied to the electroplating tip from above.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2000
    Assignee: Schempp & Decker Praezisionsteile und Oberflaechentechnik GmbH
    Inventors: Klaus Guenter Roesener, Kai Erik Liebich, Hans-Joachim Neese, Uwe Liebig, Johannes Guendel
  • Patent number: 6143145
    Abstract: An apparatus for continuously electroplating metal webs by coating a masking ink thereto in a fashion resembling flexographic printing, then electroplating the uncoated areas of the web and finally removing the ink, is described. The masking ink is applied continuously from a reservoir to an "anilox" roller which synchronously and rotatingly contacts either a plate roller or an intermediate roller. Contact between the rollers transfers the masking ink from one roller to the other. The plate roller has "proud" or raised areas in which the ink is drawn and contacts a guided metal web that is coated with the ink in a pattern matching that of the plate roller. Electroplating is effected after cleaning the inked web in an aqueous acid media. Finally, the masking ink is removed in an alkali medium.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2000
    Assignee: Precious Plate Inc.
    Inventors: William J. Copping, Paul M. Bronschidle, Richard J. Zimmermann
  • Patent number: 6133046
    Abstract: An apparatus for detecting an analyte in a sample, including a cell with at least one fixed electrode, at least one mobile electrode opposite the fixed electrode, the mobile electrode being configured to move with respect to the fixed electrode, and a sample receiving cavity defined by a space between the fixed electrode and the mobile electrode, wherein a surface of at least one of the fixed electrode and mobile electrode facing the sample receiving cavity is configured to bound a ligand of the analyte to be detected. The apparatus also includes a displacement mechanism configured to move the mobile electrode; and an external circuit connected to the fixed electrode and to the mobile electrode, and configured to measure a parameter having a value depending on the presence between the fixed electrode and the mobile electrode of the analyte to be detected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2000
    Assignee: Commissariat a l'Energie Atomique
    Inventor: Jean-Frederic Clerc
  • Patent number: 6129820
    Abstract: An electroplating installation for coating the conducting surface of a part. The installation includes electrodes submerged in a bath. The electrodes rest on a support device that serves as a support and a current supply. The electrodes and the support device form an interface defining a plurality of grooves opening into the bath. The grooves may be formed in the electrodes, in the support device, or in both the electrodes and the support device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2000
    Assignee: Sollac
    Inventors: Philippe Gheeraert, Jean-Marie Vienne, Bernard Vandenbussche
  • Patent number: 6120671
    Abstract: A system and method is provided for electrolytic pickling a metal strip, where the electric current is conducted through the strip indirectly without electrically conductive contact between the strip and the electrodes. The strip is run vertically or substantially vertically through the process, and the electrolyte liquid is fed in between the strip and the electrodes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2000
    Assignee: Andritz-Patentverwaltungs-Gesellschaft m.b.H.
    Inventors: Wilhelm Karner, Jovan Starcevic
  • Patent number: 6113755
    Abstract: This invention provides an apparatus for producing an electrode foil for use in aluminum electrolytic capacitors with which a high capacitance is obtained while the distortion of the foil and the leakage current can be controlled. At least two electrode plates as cathode are disposed in an electrolytic tank containing an electrolytic solution, and a direct current is supplied between an aluminum foil as anode and the electrode plates. Anodization is conducted continuously by turning the direction of the aluminum foil via rollers and conveying the foil between the electrode plates. During this treatment, the length and the position of the effective sections of the electrode plates are adjusted to keep the length to be at most two-thirds of the distance between an area near the surface of the electrolytic solution and the upper part of the bottom roller, so that the peak value of the anodizing current density appears not at the surface of the electrolytic solution but in the electrolytic solution.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2000
    Assignee: Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Masakazu Tanahashi, Kounosuke Hashio, Mitsuhisa Yoshimura, Daisuke Suzuki, Masanori Okabayashi, Shinji Kabeya
  • Patent number: 6071384
    Abstract: An arrangement for the electrogalvanic metal coating of strips which travel through an acid electrolyte enriched with metal includes at least one insoluble anode arranged parallel to the strip, wherein the current flows to the strip switched as the cathode, and wherein metal is deposited from the electrolyte on the surface of the strip. Each anode is divided into anode strips parallel to the travel direction of the strip, wherein the anode strips are insulated relative to each other and each anode strip is individually supplied with current.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2000
    Assignee: SMS Schloemann-Siemag Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Werner Schimion
  • Patent number: 6051118
    Abstract: An electrolytic composite electrode provided with a cathode formed from a drum to be rotated and an anode having a circular-arc inner surface facing the cathode at a certain interval and capable of keeping an electrolytic solution between the anode and the cathode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2000
    Assignees: Ishifuku Metal Industry Co., Ltd., Showa Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Tomoyoshi Asaki, Yukio Arai, Toshimi Mori, Teruki Takayasu
  • Patent number: 6024846
    Abstract: The invention relates to an installation for coating a metallic band by guiding the latter through an electrolytic bath (12), while passing in front of at least one anode plate (13) constituted of a set of bars arranged beside one another along a direction transversal to the forward direction (A) of the band (23) and carried by an anode bridge (14), whereas each bar forms an anode section (18). According to the invention, each anode bridge (14) comprises a carrier beam (31) along which have been arragned, one after the other, a number of live pins (32) isolated electrically from one another and linked separately to the source of current by an individual switching device (35), in order to enable fractional electric power supply of each of the anode sections (18).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2000
    Assignee: Kvaerner Metals Clecim
    Inventor: Jean-Luc Legoupil
  • Patent number: 6007694
    Abstract: An electrochemical machining method and apparatus involves the passage of a wire through a programmably controllable electrochemical machine, wherein the wire is tapered along its length to obtain a desired profile. The rate of material removal may be determined, for example, by modulating the power supplied to the electrochemical machine, or by varying the wire speed therethrough. The machine can include an electrical contact cell and a nutation cell. Electrical power is coupled to the wire via the contact cell. Relative orbital motion of the wire and the nutating cell ensures that material removal from the wire is uniform in all directions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 28, 1999
    Assignee: Phillips Plastics Corporation
    Inventors: Dave Walsh, Derrick Jones
  • Patent number: 5944965
    Abstract: An electrolytic cell comprised of a tank for holding electrolytic solution, and a drum rotatable about a horizontal axis having a non-conductive cylindrical outer surface disposed within the tank, and a plurality of elongated, like anodes arranged about the outer surface of the drum. The anodes together form a generally continuous cylindrical surface spaced from, and generally conforming to, the outer surface of the drum. Each of the anodes has at least one end projecting through the tank. A plurality of power sources is provided together with connection means for connecting groups of one or more of the projecting ends of the anodes to each power source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 31, 1999
    Assignee: Gould Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas J. Ameen, Robert D. DeWitt, Peter Peckham, Ronald K. Haines, Adam G. Bay
  • Patent number: 5942096
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for electro-depositing of a material on at least one side of a metal strip. The apparatus includes at least one casing having a first container section adapted to store under pressure a liquid including the material, a second container adapted to receive a portion of the liquid from the first container section, and a panel. The panel includes an active portion that is electrically polarized at a first polarity, at least one first outlet through which the liquid stored under pressure in the first container section is output in a direction toward the metal strip when the metal strip is conveyed past the panel, and at least one second outlet through which the liquid stored in the second container section is output in a direction toward the conveyed metal strip. The first outlet can be a slit which extends at an angle with respect to the direction in which the strip is conveyed, and the second outlets can be slits which extend traverse to the direction in which the strip is conveyed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 24, 1999
    Assignee: Andritz-Patentverwaltungs-Gesellschaft
    Inventors: Franz Ruzicka, Gerald Maresch, Ortwin Noll, Werner Schuler
  • Patent number: 5938913
    Abstract: Process for electrolytic treatment of continuous running material in which the material runs through an electrolytic liquid and electric potential is applied to the material. In order to guarantee freedom from differential potential in the material to be treated in any form of electrolytic treatment, the differential potential in the treated material is measured after electrolytic treatment and at least the same degree of inverse compensating potential is applied to the material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 17, 1999
    Assignee: Andritz-Patentverwaltungs-Gesellschaft m.b.H.
    Inventors: Jovan Starcevic, Karl Siegmund
  • Patent number: 5902464
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for depositing emitter material (3) on a wire cathode by means of electrodeposition. An amount (13) of a suspension comprising an alkaline-earth compound is transferred by a drop holder (11) which is positioned around the wire (2), by movement in a direction transverse to a longitudinal axis of the wire (2), whereafter an electric voltage is applied to the drop holder (11) and the wire (2) to deposit the emitter material (3) on the wire (2), after which the drop holder (11) is withdrawn from the wire (2) again. During the electrodeposition process the drop holder (11) and the wire (2) can be moved with respect to each other along sections of the wire (2) where the emitter material (3) has to be deposited.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 11, 1999
    Assignee: U.S. Philips Corporation
    Inventors: Nicolaas J. M. Van Leth, Godefridus J. Verhoeckx, Theodorus H. M. Stevens
  • Patent number: 5843290
    Abstract: A contactless electrolytic polishing apparatus for manufacturing a lead frame having a smooth polished surface includes a polishing tank containing polishing solution and divided by partitions into a first cathode-containing vessel, a first solution-discharge vessel, a first anode-containing vessel, a second solution-discharge vessel, a second anode-containing vessel, a third solution-discharge vessel and a second cathode-containing vessel. A direct current is applied with ripples having a frequency of 40 to 120 Hz alternately to the anode and cathode in the electrolytic polishing tank filled with an electrolytic polishing solution so that the time for which the blank positioned between both electrodes functions as the anode may be at least 3.3 times longer than that for which it functions as the cathode. The blank is then plated with a metal by employing a customary method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 1, 1998
    Assignee: Sumitomo Metal Mining Co., Limited
    Inventors: Yoshimaro Tezuka, Katsuhisa Tokunaga, Mitsuyuki Kakimoto, Shigeki Ogawa, Miyuki Tani, Satoshi Kobayashi, Kiyotaka Sasaki, Motoyuki Tomizawa
  • Patent number: 5837109
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus for treating a strip such as a steel strip. The first object is to provide an electrode opening and closing mechanism having a simple construction. The second object is to uniform the flow of a solution around the electrode. The third object is to prevent causing irregularities in the treatment, caused by the variation of surface level of the solution between the electrodes. To attain the first object, one of the mutually facing electrodes is stationarily secured, and there is provided an opening and closing mechanism for moving the other electrode. To attain the second object, stabilizing members for solution flow are provided on the electrodes, a fluid-storing room is formed between the stabilizing member for solution flow and the electrode, and a slit-shaped hole for uniformly flowing the solution between the electrodes from the fluid-storing room, is formed at right angles to the travelling direction of the strip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 17, 1998
    Assignee: Toyo Kohan Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Tadashi Fujii, Eiichiro Sugioka
  • Patent number: 5833819
    Abstract: This invention provides a process for producing an electrolytic copper foil for a printed wiring board by supplying current between a rotary cathode and an electrolytic anode in a copper electrolyte so as to electrodeposit copper on the surface of the rotary cathode, wherein an anode for high electric current is placed opposite to the electrodeposition starting surface of the rotary cathode in such a manner that a part of the anode is projected above a liquid level of the copper electrolyte, and the copper electrolyte existing between the anode for high electric current and the opposed rotary cathode surface is electrolyzed by providing a high electric current with a current density higher than that of the electrolytic anode, and an apparatus for producing an electrolytic copper foil for a printed wiring board having excellent properties.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 10, 1998
    Assignee: Mitsui Mining & Smelting Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Muneharu Ohara, Yutaka Hirasawa, Tomohiro Miyazaki
  • Patent number: 5804053
    Abstract: A process is disclosed, as well as apparatus useful therefor, for continuously electroplating a strip of reticulated foam using multiple electroplating zones that each contain electroplating bath. In each zone there is a cathode and an anode. In at least one electroplating zone there is an insoluble anode, typically as the sole anode. In some of the electroplating zones soluble anodes may be used. As a first cathode, there can be provided a cathode roll outside of the electroplating bath. The reticulated foam is guided in the bath past the anodes, as well as past cathodes, e.g., including a cathode roll which may be positioned outside of the bath. The resulting electroplated foam emerging from the bath has an improved electroplate weight distribution and the process achieves enhanced efficiencies and economies of operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 8, 1998
    Assignee: ELTECH Systems Corporation
    Inventors: Anthony J. Vaccaro, Janet S. Gregg, Daniel W. Gibbons, James R. Brannan, Gerald R. Pohto, Jean M. Hinden
  • Patent number: 5800694
    Abstract: The invention concerns a process for pickling material strips made of steel, in particular stainless steel, where the strip passes through at last one pickling bath with at least one pickling acid. It is above all characterized by the fact that the acid concentration and/or the acid composition is controlled as a function of the material quality, of the pre-treatment and of the operating parameters of the pickling plant. Furthermore, the invention concerns a plant for carrying out the process, where at least two circulation tanks having different acid concentrations and/or acid compositions are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 1, 1998
    Assignee: Andritz-Patentverwaltungs-Gesellschaft m.b.H.
    Inventors: Jovan Starcevic, Erich Mahr
  • Patent number: 5786556
    Abstract: A method and a device for performing the method of electrolytic pickling of a metal strip. The metal strip continuously passes through an electrolyte bath which has an electrolyte circulating through a closed system. Crevices are formed on both sides of the metal with electrodes which are located above the top crevice and below the bottom crevice. The electrodes are of opposite polarity and are chemically resistant to the electrolyte. An electrical current is passed from one electrode, through one crevice, through the metal, through the other crevice and to the other electrode which results in the electrolytic pickling of the metal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 28, 1998
    Assignee: Swedish Pickling AB
    Inventors: Conny Gronlund, Kaj Gronlund
  • Patent number: 5755935
    Abstract: A processing system to produce printed circuits or other finished materials on a continous strip of substrate comprising a processing cabinet having an entry opening and an exit opening formed on opposite ends thereof, a supply station and a take-up station disposed adjacent the entry opening and the exit opening respectively, a transport mechanism to transport the continuous strip of substrate from the supply station through the entry opening, the processing cabinet and the exit opening to the take-up station and a system control to selectively control the tension and speed of the continuous strip of substrate traveling from the supply station to the take-up station.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 26, 1998
    Inventors: Dale Jackson, Rick Hoving, Vladimir Velitschkouski, Renn Grear, Dan Kostecke
  • Patent number: 5741407
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method of continuously manufacturing a conductor having a core S based on aluminum and coated by being electroplated with at least one layer of silver, characterized in that the following steps are performed in succession with intermediate rinsing steps (r):a) the conductor is degreased;b) oxide is removed from the conductor;c) the surface of the conductor is treated in an adhesion bath;d) a first layer of silver is electroplated by immersion in a first electrolytic bath; ande) a second layer of silver is electroplated by immersion in a second electrolytic bath.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 21, 1998
    Assignee: Axon' Cable S.A.
    Inventor: Ning Yu
  • Patent number: 5718814
    Abstract: A separating plant for separating metals from an electrolyte which contains metal, particularly for coating steel strip, includes successively arranged vertical coating cells in which the strip to be coated is guided from an upper deflection roller and/or current-carrying roller to a lower deflection roller and from there to another upper deflection roller and/or current-carrying roller. The upwardly or downwardly travelling strip portion passes through a gap between vertically arranged anodes and an electrolyte flow which is circulated by means of pumps is fed into the gap, preferably in a direction opposite the strip travel direction. Two oppositely arranged walls of each coating cell are constructed as anode plates and adjacent anode plates of successive coating cells form a separating chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 17, 1998
    Assignee: SMS Schloemann-Siemag Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Werner Schimion
  • Patent number: 5716502
    Abstract: An electrolytic cell comprised of a tank for holding electrolytic solution, and a drum rotatable about a horizontal axis having a non-conductive cylindrical outer surface disposed within the tank, and a plurality of elongated, like anodes arranged about the outer surface of the drum. The anodes together form a generally continuous cylindrical surface spaced from, and generally conforming to, the outer surface of the drum. Each of the anodes has at least one end projecting through the tank. A plurality of power sources is provided together with connection means for connecting groups of one or more of the projecting ends of the anodes to each power source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 10, 1998
    Assignee: Gould Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas J. Ameen, Robert D. DeWitt, Peter Peckham, Ronald K. Haines, Adam G. Bay
  • Patent number: 5714051
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for depositing emitter material (3) on a wire cathode by means of electrodeposition. An amount (13) of a suspension comprising an alkaline-earth compound is transferred by a drop holder (11) which is positioned around the wire (2), by movement in a direction transverse to a longitudinal axis of the wire (2), whereafter an electric voltage is applied to the drop holder (11) and the wire (2) to deposit the emitter material (3) on the wire (2), after which the drop holder (11) is withdrawn from the wire (2) again. During the electrodeposition process the drop holder (11) and the wire (2) can be moved with respect to each other along sections of the wire (2) where the emitter material (3) has to be deposited.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 3, 1998
    Assignee: U.S. Philips Corporation
    Inventors: Nicolaas J.M. Van Leth, Godefridus J. Verhoeckx, Theodorus H.M. Stevens
  • Patent number: 5690804
    Abstract: A method and a plant for regenerating zinc sulfate electrolyte in steel strip electrogalvanizing processes by precipitating dissolved iron from electrolyte circulating through a coating cell. A partial quantity of the circulating electrolyte to be regenerated is removed from the coating cell and the dissolved iron is oxidized to Fe.sup.3+ by a redox-controlled addition of oxidizing agents. Subsequently, by raising the pH value to the precipitation limit of Fe.sup.3+ by a controlled addition of a ZnO/water suspension or a ZnCO.sub.3 /water suspension, the dissolved iron is precipitated as sludge. Any excess ZnO or ZnCO.sub.3 is then dissolved by adding fresh electrolyte. The precipitated iron sludge is conducted through a suitable filter such as a filter press, a filter belt, a decanter, etc., and the precipitated iron is filtered out in this manner. Subsequently, the purified partial quantity of the electrolyte is returned to the coating cell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 25, 1997
    Assignee: SMS Schloemann-Siemag Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Joachim Kuhlmann, Ulrich Glasker
  • Patent number: 5618391
    Abstract: In a device for electrolytically coating one side of metal strips (2), the metal strips to be coated are guided around a rotary cathodic current roller (1), which they contact, and a partially cylindrical, insoluble anode (3) is arranged approximately concentrically around the current roller, at a distance thereof. The interval (4) between the section (21) of the strip guided on the current roller (1) and the anode (3) is delimited in the area of the strip edges (22) by seals (5) which can be oriented in a direction parallel to the axis of the roller. The electrolyte flows through the interval (4).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 8, 1997
    Inventors: Hans J. May, Roland Schnettler
  • Patent number: 5602488
    Abstract: Methods of measuring, adjusting and uniformalizing a sectional area ratio of a metal-covered electric wire, a method of cleaning an electric wire, a method of manufacturing a metal-covered electric wire, an apparatus for measuring a sectional area ratio of a metal-covered electric wire, and an apparatus for electropolishing a metal-covered electric wire.Electric resistance values of first and second materials are previously stored respectively so that a sectional area ratio of a metal-covered electric wire is calculated on the basis of the as-stored values and an actually measured electric resistance value of the metal-covered electric wire. Measurement and uniformalization of a sectional area ratio of a metal-covered electric wire and cleaning of an electric wire are carried out by dissolving surface layer parts of the electric wires by electropolishing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 11, 1997
    Assignee: Sumitomo Electric Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: Akira Mikumo, Kenichi Takahashi, Masanobu Koganeya
  • Patent number: 5595640
    Abstract: Nozzle body acting as an insoluble anode for the galvanic or chemical treent of rod-shaped or pipe-shaped objects continuously moved through the nozzle body and acting as cathode. The nozzle body is arranged in a hollow body serving as a pressure vessel, the electrolyte flowing through the hollow body. The hollow body has a plurality of radial bore holes acting as nozzles, these bore holes being arranged in a plurality of cross-sectional regions lying at a distance from one another and being inclined at angles (.alpha.) and (.beta.) relative to the longitudinal axis of the nozzle body and relative to the respective cross-sectional region. Diaphragms are associated with the nozzle body which is coated on all sides with a layer of metal from the platinum group. The diaphragms are arranged in the through-opening of the nozzle body, surround the body to be treated, and are situated in planes between the outlet openings of the bore holes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 21, 1997
    Assignee: Metallglanz Gesellschaft fuer Entgratung und Oberflaechentechnik mbH
    Inventor: Timm von Hoffmann
  • Patent number: 5584984
    Abstract: A process and apparatus for electrolytically treating a surface, as for pickling, cleaning and/or degreasing a high-speed continuous metal strip. The strip to be treated is passed through a container holding an electrolyte and including strip electrodes disposed in confrontingly-spaced relation above and below the movement path of the strip. The electrodes are arranged along the movement path in serial adjacency so that each electrode is disposed immediately adjacent to an opposite polarity electrode along the path. Electrolyte is applied to the strip by a number of nozzle pairs, each pair being associated with and arranged on opposite sides of a respective electrode and acting on a region of the strip confrontingly opposite that electrode so as to prevent the electrolyte from entering gap regions defined between adjacent electrodes. This arrangement avoids short circuits through the electrolyte between adjacent, opposite charge electrodes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 17, 1996
    Assignee: Mannesmann Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Franz G. Pempera, Michael Haentjes
  • Patent number: 5582708
    Abstract: Electroplating cell comprising an electrolysis tank (2) containing a plating solution (S), at least one immersed anode (3), means for making a strip run through the solution (S) in front of said anode (3), from one of its edges (3A) to the opposite edge (3B), and electrically insulating masks (4A, 4B) arranged along said edges (3A, 3B).Said masks overhang said edges by an amount at least equal to the distance separating said anode (3) from said strip and overlap them by an amount less than the same distance.Application to coating with an alloy, especially a zinc-based alloy, especially in installations having several successive cells.The quality of the coating is improved, something which facilitates the subsequent forming and painting of the coated sheet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 10, 1996
    Assignee: Sollac
    Inventors: Franco Delfrate, Claude Arnoux
  • Patent number: 5478457
    Abstract: Apparatus for the continuous electrolytic treatment of wire-shaped objects comprising an electrolyte bath and means for conducting the objects predominantly horizontally through the bath past a succession of anodes and cathodes, wherein the objects follow a zigzag path of travel in sliding contact with the successive current-transmitting electrodes that are immersed in the electrolyte and connected to one and the same pole of the power source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 26, 1995
    Inventors: Mario Catteeuw, Pierre Cosaert
  • Patent number: 5476577
    Abstract: In a device for the electrolytic deposition of metal on the metal strips (1) forming the cathode, which are taken through a gap in an electrolyte (3) between two flat or rod-like parallel anodes (2), the proposal is for edge masks (4) to screen off the edge regions of the metal strip (1). The shanks (41 ) of each edge mask (4) are prestressed by springs against the anodes (2) and their relatively wide shanks may be directed transversely to the direction of the strip in order to take transitions between different strip widths into account.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 19, 1995
    Inventors: Hans J. May, Roland Schnettler
  • Patent number: 5472579
    Abstract: This invention provides a method and an apparatus for removing scales from hot-rolled steel strips to produce steel strips with excellent surface conditions. In a pickling facility to pickle the hot-rolled steel strip, the pickling method of this invention passes an electric current through the continuously fed, hot-rolled steel strip in one or more of a plurality of pickling tanks. A means to supply an electric current is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 5, 1995
    Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.
    Inventors: Katsumi Mabuchi, Masahiro Itoh, Eizi Kashimura, Tsuneo Nakamura
  • Patent number: 5449447
    Abstract: Method and device for pickling, and possibly for degreasing, of elongate metal items, in particular wires, strips and steel section. These items are placed in an electrolyte solution through which an electric current is passed by means of electrodes, said items being moved preferably in a substantially continuous manner lengthwise through at least two successive separate baths of an aqueous hydrochloric acid solution and/or a chlorine mineral salt solution. At least one electrode is placed in each bath and an electric voltage is applied to these electrodes so that the sign of the voltage on the electrode of one of the baths is always different from the sign of the voltage on the electrode of the adjacent bath, the baths being substantially insulated from each other so that the electric current flows between two adjacent baths mainly via that part of the item being moved between said two adjacent baths.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 1993
    Date of Patent: September 12, 1995
    Assignee: Le Four Industriel Belge S.A.
    Inventor: Rene Branders