EP0075099B1 - Apparatus for electroplating metals, particularly aluminium - Google Patents

Apparatus for electroplating metals, particularly aluminium Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0075099B1
EP0075099B1 EP82107244A EP82107244A EP0075099B1 EP 0075099 B1 EP0075099 B1 EP 0075099B1 EP 82107244 A EP82107244 A EP 82107244A EP 82107244 A EP82107244 A EP 82107244A EP 0075099 B1 EP0075099 B1 EP 0075099B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
electrolyte
arrangement
anodes
inserts
treated
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired
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EP82107244A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP0075099A1 (en
Inventor
Siegfried Dr. Birkle
Johann Gehring
Klaus Stöger
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Siemens AG
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Siemens AG
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Priority to AT82107244T priority Critical patent/ATE13913T1/en
Publication of EP0075099A1 publication Critical patent/EP0075099A1/en
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Publication of EP0075099B1 publication Critical patent/EP0075099B1/en
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    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C25—ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PROCESSES; APPARATUS THEREFOR
    • C25D—PROCESSES FOR THE ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PRODUCTION OF COATINGS; ELECTROFORMING; APPARATUS THEREFOR
    • C25D3/00—Electroplating: Baths therefor
    • C25D3/02—Electroplating: Baths therefor from solutions
    • C25D3/42—Electroplating: Baths therefor from solutions of light metals
    • C25D3/44—Aluminium
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C25—ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PROCESSES; APPARATUS THEREFOR
    • C25D—PROCESSES FOR THE ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PRODUCTION OF COATINGS; ELECTROFORMING; APPARATUS THEREFOR
    • C25D7/00—Electroplating characterised by the article coated
    • C25D7/06—Wires; Strips; Foils
    • C25D7/0614—Strips or foils

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a system for the galvanic deposition of metals, in particular aluminum from aprotic, oxygen-free and water-free aluminum-organic electrolytes, on wire, tube or strip-shaped material with an externally closed tubular cell, through which the cathodically contacted material to be treated is treated is preferably continuously movable in the axial direction along anodes and through which the electrolyte can be pumped with the aid of a closed electrolyte circulation system against the direction of movement of the material, a lock arrangement being provided at each end of the tubular cell, which prevents the electrolyte from flowing out of the tubular cell consists of several chambers.
  • T-shaped connecting pieces are arranged which have a diaphragm which prevents the longitudinal passage of the electrolyte and which vertically deflects the electrolyte flow and which has a shape similar to the cross section of the treatment Good, tight-fitting breakthrough.
  • at least one disk-shaped chamber wall has a radial bore leading to the opening for the passage of the material to be treated, which is connected to an inert liquid circuit via a connecting piece.
  • the opening in the chamber wall can be supplied with inert liquid so that it practically forms a liquid lock through which the entry of atmospheric air is not possible, but also prevents the electrolyte from escaping.
  • this principle can and is also used for washing the treated goods, it then being expedient that the inert liquid required for this is obtained from the electrolyte by distillation and that this inert liquid enriched with the electrolyte is then fed back into the electrolyte circuit.
  • the invention is based on the object. to make a system of the type described in the introduction simpler and more efficient, with the possibility being given that several strips can be coated at the same time without significant additional effort in order to achieve a higher throughput. There should also be the possibility that the material to be treated is only partially coated.
  • the system according to the invention is characterized in that the tubular cell consists of a plurality of preferably metallic square tubes which can be flanged together and in which interchangeable non-conductive inserts are arranged, which on the one hand are adapted to the clear width of the square tubes and on the other hand are shaped in such a way that they provide longitudinal grooves and channels for Management of the material to be aluminized, the anodes surrounding the material to be treated and the electrolyte.
  • tube cells of any length can be produced with relatively simple means, and the individual sections can be dimensioned so that they are easily transportable.
  • the inserts can be replaced relatively easily, so that the system is very flexible.
  • the interchangeable insert pieces are preferably arranged opposite one another, the outer sides of which are adapted to the clear dimensions of the square tubes and on the opposite side of which recesses are provided for guiding and covering the material to be treated and the electrolyte and for holding the anodes surrounding the material to be treated.
  • the normally external anodes are used also used moderately for shielding the electrolyte against the metallic inner wall of the square tube, it being advantageous that the recesses for the anodes are designed such that the inserts are supported on the anodes.
  • a very simple assembly results from the fact that the inserts are firmly connected to the anodes in such a way that two inserts form a unit which can be pushed into the square tube.
  • Each of these units therefore also practically forms a square tube with flat end faces made of a non-conductive material. Their external dimensioning is such that they can be inserted exactly into the metallic sheathing tube.
  • Each unit has at least the length of the corresponding square tube, it being expedient if several square tubes are combined to form a tube cell, the assembly being carried out so that the end face of a unit does not fall into the plane of the fastening flanges of the square tubes. In this way not only a better seal, but also a better centering of the individual insert pieces is achieved.
  • the system shown in FIG. 1 is used for the galvanic deposition of aluminum from aprotic, oxygen-free and water-free aluminum-organic electrolytes on a strip-like material 1, which in the selected exemplary embodiment is pulled off a roll 2 of an unwinding unit 3, into a tubular cell 5 via a lock arrangement 4 - And passed through this for aluminizing and is wound over a lock arrangement 6 onto a roll 7 of a winding unit 8 after the aluminizing.
  • two strips 1 a and 1 b can be aluminized simultaneously by the rectangular cross-sectional shape of the tubular cell 5, it being apparent from FIG. 2 c that partial aluminization is also possible in a simple manner.
  • the system shown in FIG. 1 practically only needs to be supplemented by a further roll of the unwinding unit 3 and the winding unit 8.
  • the drive can be carried out by the same drive motor, but with the direction of rotation reversed.
  • Correspondingly arranged anodes are located within the tubular cell 5, which surround the material to be treated on all sides as far as possible.
  • the tube cell 5 Immediately behind the lock arrangement 4 and immediately in front of the lock arrangement 6, the tube cell 5 has an outlet connection 9 and an inlet connection 10, which in the selected exemplary embodiment run perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the tube cell 5. Expediently, however, they are arranged inclined in the current direction, as is the case, for example, in the known tubular cell according to US Pat. No. 3,865,701.
  • the outlet nozzle 9 and the inlet nozzle 10 are connected to an electrolyte circuit which ends in an electrolyte reservoir 11. With the help of a pump 12, the electrolyte is pumped via a line 13, a valve 14 and a flow meter 15 via the inlet connector 10 into the tubular cell 5 and flows in the opposite direction to the movement of the strip-like material 1.
  • the electrolyte hidden via the outlet connector 9 is via a valve 16 and a line 17 are fed to the electrolyte reservoir 11, specifically in front of a filter 18.
  • This electrolyte circuit can be interrupted with the aid of the valves 16, for example when the tubular cell 5 is put into operation.
  • 23 inert liquid, z. B. via a parallel circuit via open valves 19 and 20 and pipes 21 and 22 with the aid of a feed pump.
  • toluene from an inert liquid reservoir 24 through the tubular cell 5 once to remove the atmospheric air from the tubular cell 5 before the electrolyte is pumped through under a protective gas atmosphere N 2 , and secondly - after the electrolyte has been drained - the tubular cell 5 with inert liquid to be able to clean.
  • the electrolyte reservoir 11 is sealed airtight with the help of a lid 25 and equipped with a pressure relief valve 26. Of course, all lines are inserted airtight through the cover. Of course, the electrolyte reservoir 11 is also under a protective gas atmosphere N z .
  • diaphragms 27 and 28 are provided on the outlet nozzle 9 and on the inlet nozzle 10, which are provided with slots for the passage of the material 1 to be treated, which are adapted to the cross-section of the material so that as possible little electrolyte can pass into the lock arrangements 4 and 6.
  • the lock arrangements 4 and 6 specially designed namely the lock arrangement 4 consists of three chambers 29 to 31, while the lock arrangement 6 even has five chambers 32 to 36.
  • Each of the chambers 29 to 36 consists of a square tube 37 and these matched chamber walls 38 to 47. Through holes in the chamber walls, 29 to 36 inert gas N z and / or inert liquid can be introduced into and removed from the individual chambers to form liquid locks, such as will be explained in more detail with reference to Figure 2.
  • the chambers 31 and 32 serve primarily to collect the electrolyte, which is supplied to the electrolyte reservoir via a line 48 and a valve 49 11 can be supplied.
  • the line 48 is connected via a valve 50 to the inert liquid reservoir 24 in order to also be able to clean the chambers 31 and 32 with inert liquid.
  • the chamber wall 39 located between the chambers 29 and 30 is used exclusively for the formation of a liquid lock, the chamber wall 39 of the two chambers 29 and 30 being supplied via a line 51 with the aid of a pump 52 from an inert liquid storage container 53, namely via connecting bores 54 according to FIG. 2a, which are connected via holes 55 to the openings 56 to be treated adapted to the goods 1a and 1b.
  • These openings 56 are now supplied with an amount of inert liquid such that they are always completely filled with inert liquid and thus seal them airtight.
  • a connection bore 57 which is connected to the chamber 29. However, it could also be connected to the chamber 30, but this is not shown.
  • the chamber 30 is rather emptied via a connection bore 58 of the chamber wall 40.
  • the inert liquid is in turn fed to the inert liquid reservoir 53 via a line 59 according to FIG.
  • a valve 60 is also provided in this circuit.
  • Connection bores 61 and 62 in the chamber walls 38 and 41 serve for connection to inert gas N 2 , since the inert liquid should not come into contact with atmospheric oxygen if possible.
  • the line 48 is connected via a connection bore 63 according to FIG.
  • the roll 2 of the unwinding unit 3 is likewise self-contained and partially filled with inert liquid, this inert liquid being able to be fed from a container 68 via lines 64 and 65 with the aid of a pump 66 and valve 67 and emptied again, if one newly filled roll is inserted.
  • the unwinding unit 3 is also under a protective gas atmosphere N 2 and in the selected exemplary embodiment is tightly connected to the chamber 29 of the lock arrangement 4 via a square tube connection 69.
  • This square tube connector 69 also has an insert with openings which are adapted to the cross section of the material to be treated and which is connected to the inert circuit system 51 to 53, 59 via a corresponding connection bore and line, as shown on the left in FIG.
  • the chamber wall 41 like the chamber walls 38 to 40, has openings 70 which are adapted to the cross section of the material to be treated in such a way that as little electrolyte as possible can pass from the tube cell 5 into the camera 31.
  • the lock arrangement 6 has two more chambers than the lock arrangement 4, because in the lock arrangement 6 the two chambers 33 and 34 serve to wash the already aluminized goods 1.
  • the chambers 32, 35 and 36 correspond to the chambers 29 to 31 of the lock arrangement 4.
  • the chambers 32 to 36 are basically the same as the chambers 29 to 31.
  • the chamber walls 38, 40 and 41 of the lock arrangement 4 correspond to the chamber walls 42, 43, 45 and 47 of the lock arrangement 6.
  • the chamber wall 39 corresponds to the two chamber walls 41 and 46 of the lock arrangement 6. Since the chamber wall 44 is not only for sealing, but also also serves to wash the already aluminized goods, the connection bore of the chamber 44 is connected to an evaporator 73 via a line 71 and valve 72.
  • the inert liquid obtained from the electrolyte by distillation is pumped through the longitudinal bores of the chamber wall 44 into the space between the strip-like material 1 and the breakthroughs.
  • the inert liquid emerging into the chambers 33 and 34 and enriched with electrolyte is in turn fed to the electrolyte reservoir 1 via the corresponding connection bores and a pipeline 75.
  • the chamber wall 46 is the same as the chamber wall 39 is formed, which is connected to a reservoir 78 via a connection bore and pipe 76, a valve 77.
  • the inert liquid stored in the storage container 78 is pumped with the aid of a feed pump 79 through the corresponding bores in the intermediate wall 46, which essentially serves as a liquid lock.
  • the inert liquid is returned to the reservoir 78 via a line 99, which communicates with the chambers 35 and 36 or the connection bores of the chamber walls 45 and 46.
  • FIG. 2 shows a section through part of the tubular cell 5 and through the lock arrangement 4.
  • the tubular cell 5 consists of two square tubes 5a and 5b flanged together, in which interchangeable insert pieces 80 and 81 are arranged, which on the one hand are the clear ones Width of the square tubes 5a and 5b are adapted and on the other hand are shaped so that they have longitudinal grooves 82 to 84, in which arranged on both sides of the band-shaped material 1a and 1b anodes 85 and 86 are arranged, which are by means of screws 87 between the Inserts 80 and 81 held and form a unit with them.
  • the longitudinal grooves 82 and 83 are formed so that the inserts 80 and 81 seal against the anodes 85, 86.
  • insulating intermediate pieces 88 are provided on both sides of the anodes 85.
  • the opposite sides of the inserts 80 and 81 are formed so that they form channels 89 for the electrolyte, which is pumped through the inlet and outlet ports 9 to 10.
  • the anodes 85 and 86 are contacted from above with the aid of contact pins 90 and 91, which can be inserted via insulating intermediate pieces 92.
  • the outlet connection 9 is flanged directly onto the square tube 5a.
  • FIG. 2e also shows the possibility of contacting the strip-like material 1a and 1b with the aid of resilient contact pins 97 which are connected to the cathode of the power source.
  • the contact pins 97 are guided in the square tubes 5a and 5b with the aid of the insulating intermediate pieces 98.
  • the contact can also be made in a highly different manner if this is expedient.
  • the strip-like material 1a and 1b is only partially aluminized, in the region of the channels 89. If the strip-shaped material 1a and 1b is to be aluminized over the entire width, the electrolyte must have access to it have the entire width of the goods to be treated 1a and 1b, 89 guides for the band-shaped goods 1a and 1b then having to be provided within the channels.
  • the chambers 29 to 36 of the lock arrangements 4 and 6 are also relatively easy to manufacture, since they practically consist only of square chamber walls 38 to 47 and the square tubes 37.
  • two band-shaped goods 1a a and 1 b are aluminized at the same time.

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  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Chemical Kinetics & Catalysis (AREA)
  • Electrochemistry (AREA)
  • Materials Engineering (AREA)
  • Metallurgy (AREA)
  • Organic Chemistry (AREA)
  • Electroplating Methods And Accessories (AREA)
  • Electroplating And Plating Baths Therefor (AREA)
  • Manufacture And Refinement Of Metals (AREA)
  • Prevention Of Electric Corrosion (AREA)

Abstract

An installation for electro-depositing metal, such as aluminum, on elongated goods such as tapes or wires characterized by a tubular cell, which is closed to the outside and provided with airlock arrangements at each end so that goods can be conveyed therethrough in contact with an electrolyte for electroplating. The cell is formed of a plurality of interconnected rectangular tubes with each tube having a flange at each end for forming a connection and receiving interchangeable nonconductive insert pieces, which match the interior dimensions of the tube and have atleast two longitudinal channels for guiding the goods to be metallized and for positioning anodes to surround the goods to be metallized in the flow of electrolyte.

Description

Die Erfindung bezieht sich auf eine Anlage zum galvanischen Abscheiden von Metallen, insbesondere von Aluminium aus aprotischen, sauerstoff- und wasserfreien aluminiumorganischen Elektrolyten, auf draht-, rohr- oder bandförmigem Gut mit einer nach außen abgeschlossenen Rohrzelle, durch die das zu behandelnde kathodisch kontaktierte Gut in Achsrichtung vorzugsweise kontinuierlich entlang von Anoden bewegbar ist und durch die der Elektrolyt mit Hilfe eines geschlossenen Elektrolyt-Umlaufsystems entgegen der Bewegungsrichtung des Gutes pumpbar ist, wobei an jedem Ende der Rohrzelle eine das Ausströmen des Elektrolyten aus der Rohrzelle verhindernde Schleusenanordnung vorgesehen ist, welche aus mehreren Kammern besteht.The invention relates to a system for the galvanic deposition of metals, in particular aluminum from aprotic, oxygen-free and water-free aluminum-organic electrolytes, on wire, tube or strip-shaped material with an externally closed tubular cell, through which the cathodically contacted material to be treated is treated is preferably continuously movable in the axial direction along anodes and through which the electrolyte can be pumped with the aid of a closed electrolyte circulation system against the direction of movement of the material, a lock arrangement being provided at each end of the tubular cell, which prevents the electrolyte from flowing out of the tubular cell consists of several chambers.

Durch die US-PS 3 865 701 ist eine Anlage dieser Art zum Abscheiden von Metallen, insbesondere Edelmetallen bekannt geworden. Bei dieser bekannten Anlage ist zwar die Rohrzelle an beiden Enden durch Schleusenanordnungen abgeschlossen, doch kann nicht verhindert werden, daß Luftsauerstoff und Luftfeuchtigkeit mit dem Elektrolyten in Berührung kommen. Daher ist eine solche Anlage zum galvanischen Abscheiden von Aluminium nicht geeignet, da zum Aluminieren ein Elektrolyt verwendet werden muß, der unter sauerstoff- und wasserfreien Bedingungen hergestellt ist und unter diesen Bedingungen so weit als praktisch möglich gehalten werden muß.A system of this type for the deposition of metals, in particular precious metals, has become known from US Pat. No. 3,865,701. In this known system, the tube cell is closed at both ends by lock arrangements, but it cannot be prevented that atmospheric oxygen and air humidity come into contact with the electrolyte. Therefore, such a system for the electrodeposition of aluminum is not suitable, since an electrolyte must be used for aluminizing, which is produced under oxygen- and water-free conditions and must be kept as far as practically possible under these conditions.

Um aber eine solche Anlage zum galvanischen Abscheiden von Aluminium geeignet zu machen, wird in der älteren Patentanmeldung EP-A-43440, welche nach Art. 54 (3) EPÜ als Stand der Technik gilt, vorgeschlagen, daß die nach außen abgeschlossene Rohrzelle mit einem Schutzgas (Inertgas) beaufschlagt wird und daß die einzelnen Kammern der Schleusenanordnungen gegeneinander durch Inertgas und/oder Inertflüssigkeit abgedichtet sind. Ferner sind zum Ein-und Ausblenden sowie zum Umlenken der Bewegungsrichtung des strömenden Elektrolyten zwischen Rohrzelle und den Schleusenanordnungen T-förmige Verbindungsstücke angeordnet, die eine den Längsdurchgang des Elektrolyten verhindernde, den Elektrolytstrom senkrecht ablenkende Blende aufweisen, welche einen der Form des Querschnitts des zu behandenden Gutes eng angepaßten Durchbruch aufweist. Zum Abdichten der einzelnen Kammern wird dort vorgeschlagen, daß zumindest eine scheibenförmige Kammernwand eine radiale zu dem Durchbruch für den Durchgang des zu behandelnden Gutes führende Bohrung aufweist, die über einen Anschlußstutzen an einem Inertflüssigkeits-Kreislauf angeschlossen ist. Über diese Bohrung kann der Durchbruch in der Kammerwand so mit Inertflüssigkeit versorgt werden, daß sie praktisch eine Flüssigkeitsschleuse bilden, durch die ein Eintreten von atmosphärischer Luft nicht möglich ist, aber auch verhindert, daß der Elektrolyt austritt. Dieses Prinzip kann und wird aber auch zum Waschen des behandelten Gutes verwendet, wobei es dann zweckmäßig ist, daß die dazu erforderliche Inertflüssigkeit aus dem Elektrolyten durch Destillation gewonnen wird und daß diese mit dem Elektrolyten angereicherte Inertflüssigkeit dann aber wieder dem Elektrolytkreislauf zugeführt wird.However, in order to make such a system suitable for the galvanic deposition of aluminum, it is proposed in the older patent application EP-A-43440, which is considered to be state of the art according to Art. 54 (3) EPC, that the tubular cell which is sealed off from the outside has a Shielding gas (inert gas) is applied and that the individual chambers of the lock arrangements are sealed against each other by inert gas and / or inert liquid. Furthermore, for fading in and out and for redirecting the direction of movement of the flowing electrolyte between the tube cell and the lock arrangements, T-shaped connecting pieces are arranged which have a diaphragm which prevents the longitudinal passage of the electrolyte and which vertically deflects the electrolyte flow and which has a shape similar to the cross section of the treatment Good, tight-fitting breakthrough. To seal the individual chambers, it is proposed that at least one disk-shaped chamber wall has a radial bore leading to the opening for the passage of the material to be treated, which is connected to an inert liquid circuit via a connecting piece. Via this hole, the opening in the chamber wall can be supplied with inert liquid so that it practically forms a liquid lock through which the entry of atmospheric air is not possible, but also prevents the electrolyte from escaping. However, this principle can and is also used for washing the treated goods, it then being expedient that the inert liquid required for this is obtained from the electrolyte by distillation and that this inert liquid enriched with the electrolyte is then fed back into the electrolyte circuit.

Sowohl bei der Galvanikanlage nach der US PS 3 865 701 als auch bei der Anlage nach der älteren Patentanmeldung EP-A-43440 werden Rohrzellen mit rundem Querschnitt verwendet, wobei auch die an beiden Enden der Rohrzellen angeschlossenen Schleusenanordnungen im Querschnitt ein rundes Profil aufweisen. Sowohl die Rohrzellen als auch die Schleusenanordnungen bestehen aus Kunststoff und erfordern einen sehr hohen Fertigungsaufwand. Insbesondere die Herstellung der Schleusenanordnung bei der Anlage nach der US-PS 3 865 701 ist sehr aufwendig, da das Schleusengehäuse praktisch aus einem Stück besteht, während bei der Anlage nach der älteren Patentanmeldung die einzelnen Kammern der Schleusenanordnungen aus Rohrstücken und scheibenförmigen Kammmerwänden bestehen, was die Fertigung etwas erleichtert.Both in the electroplating system according to US Pat. No. 3,865,701 and in the system according to the older patent application EP-A-43440, tubular cells with a round cross section are used, the lock arrangements connected to both ends of the tubular cells also having a round profile in cross section. Both the tubular cells and the lock assemblies are made of plastic and require a very high manufacturing effort. In particular, the manufacture of the lock arrangement in the system according to US Pat. No. 3,865,701 is very complex, since the lock housing practically consists of one piece, while in the system according to the older patent application, the individual chambers of the lock arrangements consist of pipe pieces and disk-shaped chamber walls, which manufacturing a little easier.

Der Erfindung liegt die Aufgabe zugrunde. eine Anlage der eingangs beschriebenen Art einfacher und rationeller zu gestalten, wobei die Möglichkeit gegeben sein soll, daß ohne wesentlichen Mehraufwand zur Erzielung eines höheren Durchsatzes mehrere Bänder gleichzeitig beschichtet werden können. Auch soll die Möglichkeit gegeben sein, daß das zu behandelnde Gut nur partiell beschichtet wird.The invention is based on the object. to make a system of the type described in the introduction simpler and more efficient, with the possibility being given that several strips can be coated at the same time without significant additional effort in order to achieve a higher throughput. There should also be the possibility that the material to be treated is only partially coated.

Die Anlage gemäß der Erfindung ist dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Rohrzelle aus mehreren aneinander flanschbaren vorzugsweise metallischen Vierkantrohren besteht, in denen auswechselbare nichtleitende Einsatzstücke angeordnet sind, die einerseits der lichten Weite der Vierkantrohre angepaßt sind und andererseits so geformt sind, daß sie Längsnuten und Kanäle zur Führung des zu aluminierenden Gutes, der das zu behandelnde Gut umgebenden Anoden sowie des Elektrolyten bilden. Auf diese Weise lassen sich beliebig lange Rohrzellen mit relativ einfachen Mitteln herstellen, wobei die einzelnen Teilstücke so dimensioniert werden können, daß sie leicht transportabel sind. Die Einsatzstücke können relativ leicht ausgetauscht werden, so daß die Anlage sehr flexibel ist. Vorzugsweise sind die auswechselbaren Einsatzstücke einander gegenüberliegend angeordnet, deren Außenseiten den lichten Abmessungen der Vierkantrohre angepaßt sind und an deren einander gegenüberliegenden Seite Ausnehmungen zur Führung und Abdeckung des zu behandelnden Gutes und des Elektrolyten sowie zur Halterung der das zu behandende Gut umgebenden Anoden vorgesehen sind. Die normalerweise außenliegenden Anoden werden zweckmäßigerweise ebenfalls zur Abschirmung des Elektrolyten gegen die metallische Innenwand des Vierkantrohres benutzt, wobei es vorteilhaft ist, daß die Ausnehmungen für die Anoden derart ausgebildet sind, daß sich die Einsatzstücke an den Anoden abstützen. Eine sehr einfache Montage ergibt sich dadurch, daß die Einsatzstücke mit den Anoden derart fest verbunden sind, daß zwei Einsatzstücke eine Einheit bilden, welche in das Vierkantrohr schiebbar ist.The system according to the invention is characterized in that the tubular cell consists of a plurality of preferably metallic square tubes which can be flanged together and in which interchangeable non-conductive inserts are arranged, which on the one hand are adapted to the clear width of the square tubes and on the other hand are shaped in such a way that they provide longitudinal grooves and channels for Management of the material to be aluminized, the anodes surrounding the material to be treated and the electrolyte. In this way, tube cells of any length can be produced with relatively simple means, and the individual sections can be dimensioned so that they are easily transportable. The inserts can be replaced relatively easily, so that the system is very flexible. The interchangeable insert pieces are preferably arranged opposite one another, the outer sides of which are adapted to the clear dimensions of the square tubes and on the opposite side of which recesses are provided for guiding and covering the material to be treated and the electrolyte and for holding the anodes surrounding the material to be treated. The normally external anodes are used also used moderately for shielding the electrolyte against the metallic inner wall of the square tube, it being advantageous that the recesses for the anodes are designed such that the inserts are supported on the anodes. A very simple assembly results from the fact that the inserts are firmly connected to the anodes in such a way that two inserts form a unit which can be pushed into the square tube.

Jede dieser Einheiten bildet daher praktisch ebenfalls ein Vierkantrohr mit planen Stirnseiten aus einem nichtleitenden Werkstoff. Ihre äußere Dimensionierung ist so bemessen, daß sie sich exakt in das metallische Umhüllungsrohr einführen läßt. Jede Einheit hat mindestens die Länge des entsprechenden Vierkantrohres, wobei es zweckmäßig ist, wenn mehrere Vierkantrohre zu einer Rohrzelle zusammengesetzt sind, wobei die Montage so vorgenommen wird, daß die Stirnseite einer Einheit nicht in die Ebene der Befestigungsflansche der Vierkantrohre fällt. Auf diese Weise wird nicht nur eine bessere Abdichtung, sondern auch eine bessere Zentrierung der einzelnen Einsatzstücke erreicht.Each of these units therefore also practically forms a square tube with flat end faces made of a non-conductive material. Their external dimensioning is such that they can be inserted exactly into the metallic sheathing tube. Each unit has at least the length of the corresponding square tube, it being expedient if several square tubes are combined to form a tube cell, the assembly being carried out so that the end face of a unit does not fall into the plane of the fastening flanges of the square tubes. In this way not only a better seal, but also a better centering of the individual insert pieces is achieved.

Durch die Verwendung einer im Querschnitt rechteckförmigen Rohrzelle besteht die Möglichkeit, daß gleichzeitig mehrere Drähte oder Bänder beschichtet werden können, ohne daß der Mehraufwand dadurch steigt.By using a tubular cell with a rectangular cross-section, there is the possibility that several wires or strips can be coated at the same time without increasing the additional effort.

Anhand der Zeichnung, in der ein Ausführungsbeispiel dargestellt ist, wird die Erfindung näher erläutert. Es zeigen:

  • Figur 1 eine Anlage zum galvanischen Abscheiden im Prinzip,
  • Figur 2 einen Schnitt durch einen Teil einer Rohrzelle und einer Schleusenanordnung,
  • Figur 2a eine Schnittansicht nach der Linie A-B,
  • Figur 2b eine Schnittansicht nach der Linie C-D,
  • Figur 2c eine Schnittansicht nach der Linie E-F,
  • Figur 2d eine Schnittansicht nach der Linie G-H und
  • Figur 2e eine Schnittansicht nach der Linie I-K.
The invention is explained in more detail with reference to the drawing, in which an exemplary embodiment is shown. Show it:
  • 1 shows a system for galvanic deposition in principle,
  • FIG. 2 shows a section through part of a tube cell and a lock arrangement,
  • FIG. 2a shows a sectional view along the line AB,
  • FIG. 2b shows a sectional view along the line CD,
  • FIG. 2c shows a sectional view along the line EF,
  • Figure 2d is a sectional view along the line GH and
  • Figure 2e is a sectional view along the line IK.

Die in Figur 1 dargestellte Anlage dient zum galvanischen Abscheiden von Aluminium aus aprotischen, sauerstoff- und wasserfreien aluminiumorganischen Elektrolyten auf einem bandförmigen Gut 1, welches bei dem gewählten Ausführungsbeispiel von einer Rolle 2 einer Abspuleinheit 3 abgezogen, über eine Schleusenanordnung 4 in eine Rohrzelle 5 ein- und durch diese zum Aluminieren hindurchgeführt und über eine Schleusenanordnung 6 auf eine Rolle 7 einer Aufspuleinheit 8 nach der Aluminierung aufgewickelt wird. Wie anhand der Figur 2 noch näher erläutert werden wird, können durch die rechteckförmige Querschnittsform der Rohrzelle 5 gleichzeitig zwei Bänder 1a und 1b aluminiert werden, wobei aus Figur 2c zu ersehen ist, daß auf einfache Weise auch eine partielle Aluminierung möglich ist. Die in Figur 1 dargestellte Anlage braucht bei der gleichzeitigen Aluminierung von zwei Bändern praktisch nur durch je eine weitere Rolle der Abspuleinheit 3 und der Aufspuleinheit 8 ergänzt zu werden. Hierbei kann der Antrieb von demselben Antriebsmotor erfolgen, jedoch mit umgekehrter Drehrichtung. Innerhalb der Rohrzelle 5 befinden sich entsprechend angeordnete Anoden, die das zu behandende Gut möglichst allseitig umgeben.The system shown in FIG. 1 is used for the galvanic deposition of aluminum from aprotic, oxygen-free and water-free aluminum-organic electrolytes on a strip-like material 1, which in the selected exemplary embodiment is pulled off a roll 2 of an unwinding unit 3, into a tubular cell 5 via a lock arrangement 4 - And passed through this for aluminizing and is wound over a lock arrangement 6 onto a roll 7 of a winding unit 8 after the aluminizing. As will be explained in more detail with reference to FIG. 2, two strips 1 a and 1 b can be aluminized simultaneously by the rectangular cross-sectional shape of the tubular cell 5, it being apparent from FIG. 2 c that partial aluminization is also possible in a simple manner. In the simultaneous aluminizing of two strips, the system shown in FIG. 1 practically only needs to be supplemented by a further roll of the unwinding unit 3 and the winding unit 8. Here, the drive can be carried out by the same drive motor, but with the direction of rotation reversed. Correspondingly arranged anodes are located within the tubular cell 5, which surround the material to be treated on all sides as far as possible.

Unmittelbar hinter der Schleusenanordnung 4 und unmittelbar vor der Schleusenanordnung 6 besitzt die Rohrzelle 5 einen Auslaufstutzen 9 und einen Einlaufstutzen 10, die bei dem gewählten Ausführungsbeispiel senkrecht zur Längsachse der Rohrzelle 5 verlaufen. Zweckmäßigerweise sind sie jedoch in Stromrichtung geneigt angeordnet, wie dies beispielsweise bei der bekannten Rohrzelle nach der US-PS 3 865 701 der Fall ist. Der Auslaufstutzen 9 und der Einlaufstutzen 10 sind an einem Elektrolytkreislauf angeschlossen, der in einem Elektrolyt-Vorratsbehälter 11 endet. Mit Hilfe einer Pumpe 12 wird der Elektrolyt über eine Leitung 13, ein Ventil 14 und einem Strömungsmesser 15 über den Einlaufstutzen 10 in die Rohrzelle 5 gepumpt und fließt entgegengesetzt der Bewegungsrichtung des bandförmigen Gutes 1. Der über den Auslaufstutzen 9 ausgeblendete Elektrolyt wird über ein Ventil 16 und eine Leitung 17 dem Elektrolyt-Vorratsbehälter 11 zugeführt und zwar vor einem Filter 18. Dieser Elektrolytkreislauf kann mit Hilfe der Ventile 16 unterbrochen werden, beispielsweise wenn die Rohrzelle 5 in Betrieb genommen wird. In diesem Falle kann über einen parallelen Kreislauf über geöffnete Ventile 19 und 20 sowie Rohrleitungen 21 und 22 mit Hilfe einer Förderpumpe 23 Inertflüssigkeit, z. B. Toluol aus einem Inertflüssigkeitsvorratsbehälter 24 durch die Rohrzelle 5 gepumpt werden, einmal um die atmosphärische Luft aus der Rohrzelle 5 zu entfernen, bevor der Elektrolyt unter Schutzgasatmosphäre N2 durchgepumpt wird, und zum anderen um - nach abgelassenem Elektrolyten - die Rohrzelle 5 mit Inertflüssigkeit reinigen zu können.Immediately behind the lock arrangement 4 and immediately in front of the lock arrangement 6, the tube cell 5 has an outlet connection 9 and an inlet connection 10, which in the selected exemplary embodiment run perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the tube cell 5. Expediently, however, they are arranged inclined in the current direction, as is the case, for example, in the known tubular cell according to US Pat. No. 3,865,701. The outlet nozzle 9 and the inlet nozzle 10 are connected to an electrolyte circuit which ends in an electrolyte reservoir 11. With the help of a pump 12, the electrolyte is pumped via a line 13, a valve 14 and a flow meter 15 via the inlet connector 10 into the tubular cell 5 and flows in the opposite direction to the movement of the strip-like material 1. The electrolyte hidden via the outlet connector 9 is via a valve 16 and a line 17 are fed to the electrolyte reservoir 11, specifically in front of a filter 18. This electrolyte circuit can be interrupted with the aid of the valves 16, for example when the tubular cell 5 is put into operation. In this case, 23 inert liquid, z. B. via a parallel circuit via open valves 19 and 20 and pipes 21 and 22 with the aid of a feed pump. B. toluene from an inert liquid reservoir 24 through the tubular cell 5, once to remove the atmospheric air from the tubular cell 5 before the electrolyte is pumped through under a protective gas atmosphere N 2 , and secondly - after the electrolyte has been drained - the tubular cell 5 with inert liquid to be able to clean.

Der Elektrolyt-Vorratsbehälter 11 ist luftdicht mit Hilfe eines Deckels 25 abgeschlossen und mit einem Überdruckventil 26 ausgestattet. Selbstverständlich sind sämtliche Leitungen durch den Deckel luftdicht eingeführt. Selbstverständlich steht auch der Elektrolyt-Vorratsbehälter 11 unter Schutzgasatmosphäre Nz. Um den Austritt des Elektrolyten aus der Rohrzelle 5 zu verhindern, sind am Auslaufstutzen 9 und am Einlaufstutzen 10 Blenden 27 und 28 vorgesehen, die zum Durchgang des zu behandelnden Gutes 1 mit Schlitzen versehen sind, welche dem Querschnitt des Gutes so angepaßt sind, daß möglichst wenig Elektrolyt in die Schleusenanordnungen 4 und 6 übertreten kann. Da sich dies nicht absolut verhindern läßt und außerdem die Gefahr besteht, daß über die Schleusenanordnungen 4 und 6 - die ja das zu behandelnde Gut durchlassen müssen - atmosphärische Luft eindringen und damit den Elektrolyt verschlechtern kann, sind die Schleusenanordnungen 4 und 6 besonders ausgebildet, und zwar besteht die Schleusenanordnung 4 aus drei Kammern 29 bis 31, während die Schleusenanordnung 6 sogar fünf Kammern 32 bis 36 aufweist. Jede der Kammern 29 bis 36 besteht aus einem Vierkantrohr 37 und diesen angepaßten Kammerwänden 38 bis 47. Über Bohrungen in den Kammerwänden kann in die einzelnen Kammern 29 bis 36 Inertgas Nz und/oder Inertflüssigkeit zur Bildung von Flüssigkeitsschleusen eingeführt und wieder abgeführt werden, wie anhand der Figur 2 noch näher erläutert werden wird. Auf diese Weise besteht auch die Möglichkeit zum Abwaschen des am behandelnden Gut noch anhaftenden Elektrolyten nach dem Durchgang durch die Rohrzelle 5. Die Kammern 31 und 32 dienen vor allem zum Sammeln des Elektrolyten, der über eine Leitung 48 und ein Ventil 49 dem Elektrolyt-Vorratsbehälter 11 zugeführt werden kann. Die Leitung 48 steht über ein Ventil 50 mit dem Inertflüssigkeits- Vorratsbehälter 24 in Verbindung, um auch die Kammern 31 und 32 mit Inertflüssigkeit reinigen zu können.The electrolyte reservoir 11 is sealed airtight with the help of a lid 25 and equipped with a pressure relief valve 26. Of course, all lines are inserted airtight through the cover. Of course, the electrolyte reservoir 11 is also under a protective gas atmosphere N z . In order to prevent the electrolyte from escaping from the tubular cell 5, diaphragms 27 and 28 are provided on the outlet nozzle 9 and on the inlet nozzle 10, which are provided with slots for the passage of the material 1 to be treated, which are adapted to the cross-section of the material so that as possible little electrolyte can pass into the lock arrangements 4 and 6. Since this cannot be absolutely prevented and there is also the risk that atmospheric air can penetrate via the lock arrangements 4 and 6 - which must let the material to be treated pass through - and thus deteriorate the electrolyte, the lock arrangements 4 and 6 specially designed, namely the lock arrangement 4 consists of three chambers 29 to 31, while the lock arrangement 6 even has five chambers 32 to 36. Each of the chambers 29 to 36 consists of a square tube 37 and these matched chamber walls 38 to 47. Through holes in the chamber walls, 29 to 36 inert gas N z and / or inert liquid can be introduced into and removed from the individual chambers to form liquid locks, such as will be explained in more detail with reference to Figure 2. In this way, there is also the possibility of washing off the electrolyte still adhering to the material to be treated after passing through the tube cell 5. The chambers 31 and 32 serve primarily to collect the electrolyte, which is supplied to the electrolyte reservoir via a line 48 and a valve 49 11 can be supplied. The line 48 is connected via a valve 50 to the inert liquid reservoir 24 in order to also be able to clean the chambers 31 and 32 with inert liquid.

Die zwischen den Kammern 29 und 30 befindliche Kammmerwand 39 dient ausschließlich zur Bildung einer Flüssigkeitsschleuse, wobei der Kammerwand 39 der beiden Kammern 29 und 30 über eine Leitung 51 mit Hilfe einer Pumpe 52 aus einem Inertflüssigkeits-Vorratsbehälter 53 Inertflüssigkeit zugeführt wird, und zwar über Anschlußbohrungen 54 gemäß Figur 2a, die über Bohrungen 55 mit den zu behandelnden Gut 1a und 1 b angepaßten Durchbrüchen 56 verbunden sind. Diesen Durchbrüchen 56 wird nun Inertflüssigkeit in solcher Menge zugeführt, daß diese stets voll mit Inertflüssigkeit ausgefüllt sind und diese damit luftdicht abschließen. Am unteren Ende der Kammerwand 39 befindet sich eine Anschlußbohrung 57, die mit der Kammer 29 in Verbindung steht. Sie könnte aber auch mit der Kammer 30 in Verbindung stehen, was jedoch nicht dargestellt ist. Die Kammer 30 wird vielmehr über eine Anschlußbohrung 58 der Kammerwand 40 entleert. Über eine Leitung 59 gemäß Figur 1 wird die Inertflüssigkeit wiederum dem Inertflüssigkeits-Vorratsbehälter 53 zugeführt. In diesem Kreislauf ist ferner noch ein Ventil 60 vorgesehen. Anschlußbohrungen 61 und 62 in den Kammerwänden 38 und 41 dienen zum Anschluß an Inertgas N2, da ja die Inertflüssigkeit nach Möglichkeit nicht mit Luftsauerstoff in Verbindung kommen soll. Über eine Anschlußbohrung 63 gemäß Figur 2 ist die Leitung 48 angeschlossen.The chamber wall 39 located between the chambers 29 and 30 is used exclusively for the formation of a liquid lock, the chamber wall 39 of the two chambers 29 and 30 being supplied via a line 51 with the aid of a pump 52 from an inert liquid storage container 53, namely via connecting bores 54 according to FIG. 2a, which are connected via holes 55 to the openings 56 to be treated adapted to the goods 1a and 1b. These openings 56 are now supplied with an amount of inert liquid such that they are always completely filled with inert liquid and thus seal them airtight. At the lower end of the chamber wall 39 there is a connection bore 57 which is connected to the chamber 29. However, it could also be connected to the chamber 30, but this is not shown. The chamber 30 is rather emptied via a connection bore 58 of the chamber wall 40. The inert liquid is in turn fed to the inert liquid reservoir 53 via a line 59 according to FIG. A valve 60 is also provided in this circuit. Connection bores 61 and 62 in the chamber walls 38 and 41 serve for connection to inert gas N 2 , since the inert liquid should not come into contact with atmospheric oxygen if possible. The line 48 is connected via a connection bore 63 according to FIG.

Bei dem gewählten Ausführungsbeispiel ist die Rolle 2 der Abspuleinheit 3 ebenfalls in sich abgeschlossen und teilweise mit Inertflüssigkeit gefüllt, wobei diese Inertflüssigkeit über Leitungen 64 und 65 mit Hilfe einer Pumpe 66 und Ventil 67 aus einem Behälter 68 zugeführt und wieder entleert werden kann, falls eine neu gefüllte Rolle eingelegt wird. Auch die Abspuleinheit 3 steht unter Schutzgasatmosphäre N2 und ist bei dem gewählten Ausführungsbeispiel über einen Vierkantrohrstutzen 69 dicht mit der Kammer 29 der Schleusenanordnung 4 verbunden. Dieser Vierkantrohrstutzen 69 hat ebenfalls einen Einsatz mit dem Querschnitt des zu behandelnden Gutes angepaßten Durchbrüche, die über eine entsprechende Anschlußbohrung und Leitung mit dem Inertkreislaufsystem 51 bis 53, 59 in Verbindung steht, wie links in Figur 1 dargestellt ist.In the selected embodiment, the roll 2 of the unwinding unit 3 is likewise self-contained and partially filled with inert liquid, this inert liquid being able to be fed from a container 68 via lines 64 and 65 with the aid of a pump 66 and valve 67 and emptied again, if one newly filled roll is inserted. The unwinding unit 3 is also under a protective gas atmosphere N 2 and in the selected exemplary embodiment is tightly connected to the chamber 29 of the lock arrangement 4 via a square tube connection 69. This square tube connector 69 also has an insert with openings which are adapted to the cross section of the material to be treated and which is connected to the inert circuit system 51 to 53, 59 via a corresponding connection bore and line, as shown on the left in FIG.

Die Kammerwand 41 weist ebenfalls wie die Kammerwände 38 bis 40 Durchbrüche 70 auf, die dem Querschnitt des zu behandelnden Gutes so angepaßt sind, daß möglichst wenig Elektrolyt aus der Rohrzelle 5 in die Kamer 31 treten kann.The chamber wall 41, like the chamber walls 38 to 40, has openings 70 which are adapted to the cross section of the material to be treated in such a way that as little electrolyte as possible can pass from the tube cell 5 into the camera 31.

Wie aus Figur 1 zu ersehen ist, weist die Schleusenanordnung 6 zwei Kammern mehr auf als die Schleusenanordnung 4, weil in der Schleusenanordnung 6 die beiden Kammern 33 und 34 zum Waschen des bereits aluminierten Gutes 1 dienen. Die Kammern 32, 35 und 36 entsprechen den Kammern 29 bis 31 der Schleusenanordnung 4. Die Kammern 32 bis 36 sind im Prinzip gleich wie die Kammern 29 bis 31 ausgebildet. So entsprechen beispielsweise die Kammerwände 38, 40 und 41 der Schleusenanordnung 4 den Kammerwänden 42,43,45 und 47 der Schleusenanordnung 6. Der Kammerwand 39 entsprechend die beiden Kammerwände 41 und 46 der Schleusenanordnung 6. Da die Kammerwand 44 nicht nur zum Abdichten, sondern auch zum Waschen des bereits aluminierten Gutes dient, ist die Anschlußbohrung der Kammer 44 über eine Leitung 71 und Ventil 72 mit einem Verdampfer 73 verbunden. Mit Hilfe einer Förderpumpe 74 wird die aus dem Elektrolyten durch Destillation gewonnene Inertflüssigkeit über die Längsbohrungen der Kammerwand 44 in den Zwischenraum zwischen dem bandförmigen Gut 1 und den Druchbrüchen gepumpt. Die in die Kammern 33 und 34 austretende, mit Elektrolyt noch angereicherte Inertflüssigkeit wird über die entsprechenden Anschlußbohrungen und eine Rohrleitung 75 wiederum dem Elektrolyt-Vorratsbehälter 1 zugeführt.As can be seen from FIG. 1, the lock arrangement 6 has two more chambers than the lock arrangement 4, because in the lock arrangement 6 the two chambers 33 and 34 serve to wash the already aluminized goods 1. The chambers 32, 35 and 36 correspond to the chambers 29 to 31 of the lock arrangement 4. The chambers 32 to 36 are basically the same as the chambers 29 to 31. For example, the chamber walls 38, 40 and 41 of the lock arrangement 4 correspond to the chamber walls 42, 43, 45 and 47 of the lock arrangement 6. The chamber wall 39 corresponds to the two chamber walls 41 and 46 of the lock arrangement 6. Since the chamber wall 44 is not only for sealing, but also also serves to wash the already aluminized goods, the connection bore of the chamber 44 is connected to an evaporator 73 via a line 71 and valve 72. With the aid of a feed pump 74, the inert liquid obtained from the electrolyte by distillation is pumped through the longitudinal bores of the chamber wall 44 into the space between the strip-like material 1 and the breakthroughs. The inert liquid emerging into the chambers 33 and 34 and enriched with electrolyte is in turn fed to the electrolyte reservoir 1 via the corresponding connection bores and a pipeline 75.

Dadurch, daß stets nur eine kleine Volumenmenge an Inertflüssigkeit von wenigen Litern mittels Kondensation oder Destillation aus der großen Elektrolyt-Vorratsmenge für diesen Spül- bzw. Waschvorgang ausgekreist und mit verhältnismäßig kleiner Menge an abgespülten Original-Elektrolyt beladen in den Elektrolyt-Vorratsbehälter 11 zurückgeführt wird, bleiben Zusammensetzung und Menge des Elektrolyten im Vorratsbehälter 11 praktisch konstant und gleichzeitig wird die Menge an Elektrolyt-Austrag durch das zu beschichtende Gut 1 auf ein Minimum herabgesetzt, während das Spülen der Oberfläche des bereits behandelnden Gutes 1 mit reiner Inertflüssigkeit eine hochwirksame Reinigung desselben von anhaftendem Elektrolyt darstellt.Because only a small volume of inert liquid of a few liters is removed from the large electrolyte supply for this rinsing or washing process by means of condensation or distillation and loaded with a relatively small amount of rinsed original electrolyte is returned to the electrolyte storage container 11 , Composition and amount of the electrolyte in the reservoir 11 remain practically constant and at the same time the amount of electrolyte discharge through the material 1 to be coated is reduced to a minimum, while rinsing the surface of the already treated material 1 with pure inert liquid is a highly effective cleaning thereof adhering electrolyte.

Die minimalen Reste hochverdünnten Elektrolyts, die eventuell beim Verlassen der Kammer 34 noch an der Oberfläche des Gutes 1 anhaften, werden dann in den Kammern 35 und 36 mittels der als Flüssigkeitsschleuse ausgebildeten Zwischenwand 46 mit Inertflüssigkeit ganz entfernt Die Kammerwand 46 ist in gleicher Weise wie die Kammerwand 39 ausgebildet, die über eine Anschlußbohrung und Rohrleitung 76, einem Ventil 77 mit einem Vorratsbehälter 78 in Verbindung steht. Die in dem Vorratsbehälter 78 gespeicherte Inertflüssigkeit wird mit Hilfe einer Förderpumpe 79 durch die entsprechenden Bohrungen der Zwischenwand 46 gepumpt, welche im wesentlichen als Flüssigkeitsschleuse dient. Über eine Leitung 99, die mit den Kammern 35 und 36 bzw. den Anschlußbohrungen der Kammerwände 45 und 46 in Verbindung steht, wird die Inertflüssigkeit in den Vorratsbehälter 78 zurückgeleitet.The minimal residues of highly diluted electrolyte, which may still adhere to the surface of the material 1 when leaving the chamber 34, are then completely removed in the chambers 35 and 36 by means of the intermediate wall 46 designed as a liquid lock with inert liquid. The chamber wall 46 is the same as the chamber wall 39 is formed, which is connected to a reservoir 78 via a connection bore and pipe 76, a valve 77. The inert liquid stored in the storage container 78 is pumped with the aid of a feed pump 79 through the corresponding bores in the intermediate wall 46, which essentially serves as a liquid lock. The inert liquid is returned to the reservoir 78 via a line 99, which communicates with the chambers 35 and 36 or the connection bores of the chamber walls 45 and 46.

Figur 2 zeigt einen Schnitt durch einen Teil der Rohrzelle 5 sowie durch die Schleusenanordnung 4. Wie daraus zu ersehen ist, besteht die Rohrzelle 5 aus zwei aneinander geflanschten Vierkantrohren 5a und 5b, in denen auswechselbare Einsatzstücke 80 und 81 angeordnet sind, die einerseits der lichten Weite der Vierkantrohre 5a und 5b angepaßt sind und die andererseits so geformt sind, daß sie Längsnuten 82 bis 84 aufweisen, in denen zu beiden Seiten des bandförmigen Gutes 1a und 1b angeordnete Anoden 85 und 86 angeordnet sind, die mit Hilfe von Schrauben 87 zwischen den Einsatzstücken 80 und 81 gehalten und mit diesen eine Einheit bilden. Hierbei sind die Längsnuten 82 und 83 so ausgebildet, daß sich die Einsatzstücke 80 und 81 dichtend an die Anoden 85, 86 anlegen. Zur Abschirmung der Anoden 85 gegenüber den Vierkantrohren 5a und 5b sind zu beiden Seiten der Anoden 85 isolierende Zwischenstücke 88 vorgesehen. Die einander gegenüberliegenden Seiten der Einsatzstücke 80 und 81 sind so ausgebildet, daß sie Kanäle 89 für den Elektrolyten bilden, der über die Ein- und Auslaufstutzen 9 bis 10 durchgepumpt wird.FIG. 2 shows a section through part of the tubular cell 5 and through the lock arrangement 4. As can be seen from this, the tubular cell 5 consists of two square tubes 5a and 5b flanged together, in which interchangeable insert pieces 80 and 81 are arranged, which on the one hand are the clear ones Width of the square tubes 5a and 5b are adapted and on the other hand are shaped so that they have longitudinal grooves 82 to 84, in which arranged on both sides of the band-shaped material 1a and 1b anodes 85 and 86 are arranged, which are by means of screws 87 between the Inserts 80 and 81 held and form a unit with them. Here, the longitudinal grooves 82 and 83 are formed so that the inserts 80 and 81 seal against the anodes 85, 86. To shield the anodes 85 from the square tubes 5a and 5b, insulating intermediate pieces 88 are provided on both sides of the anodes 85. The opposite sides of the inserts 80 and 81 are formed so that they form channels 89 for the electrolyte, which is pumped through the inlet and outlet ports 9 to 10.

Wie Figur 2c zeigt, werden die Anoden 85 und 86 von oben mit Hilfe von Kontaktstiften 90 und 91 kontaktiert, die über isolierende Zwischenstücke 92 einführbar sind. Wie Figur 2c weiter zeigt, ist der Auslaufstutzen 9 unmittelbar am Vierkantrohr 5a angeflanscht.As FIG. 2c shows, the anodes 85 and 86 are contacted from above with the aid of contact pins 90 and 91, which can be inserted via insulating intermediate pieces 92. As FIG. 2c further shows, the outlet connection 9 is flanged directly onto the square tube 5a.

Wie aus Figur 2d zu ersehen ist, bilden die Einsatzstücke 80 und 81 zusammen mit den Anoden 85 und 86 sowie den isolierenden Zwischenstücken 88 eine auswechselbare Baueinheit, wobei die Zentrierung dieser Baueinheit derart vorgenommen werden kann, daß in Sackbohrungen 93 und 94 der Einsatzstücke 80 und 81 Zentrierfedern 95 und 96 angeordnet sind, die sich im Inneren der Vierkantrohre 5a und 5b abstützen, wie Figur 2e zeigt.As can be seen from Figure 2d, the inserts 80 and 81 together with the anodes 85 and 86 and the insulating spacers 88 form an interchangeable unit, the centering of this unit can be carried out in such a way that in the blind bores 93 and 94 of the inserts 80 and 81 centering springs 95 and 96 are arranged, which are supported in the interior of the square tubes 5a and 5b, as shown in FIG. 2e.

Figur 2e zeigt auch die Möglichkeit der Kontaktierung des bandförmigen Gutes 1a und 1b mit Hilfe von federnden Kontaktstiften 97, die mit der Kathode der Stromquelle in Verbindung stehen. Die Kontaktstifte 97 sind mit Hilfe der isolierenden Zwischenstücke 98 in den Vierkantrohren 5a und 5b geführt. Selbstverständlich kann die Kontaktierung auch hoch auf andere Weise vorgenommen werden, falls dies zweckdienlich ist.FIG. 2e also shows the possibility of contacting the strip-like material 1a and 1b with the aid of resilient contact pins 97 which are connected to the cathode of the power source. The contact pins 97 are guided in the square tubes 5a and 5b with the aid of the insulating intermediate pieces 98. Of course, the contact can also be made in a highly different manner if this is expedient.

Aus den Figuren 2c bis 2e ist ersichtlich, daß das bandförmige Gut 1a und 1b nur partiell aluminiert wird und zwar in dem Bereich der Kanäle 89. Soll das bandförmige Gut 1a und 1b auf der gesamten Breite aluminiert werden, so muß der Elektrolyt den Zutritt zur gesamten Breite des zu behandelnden Gutes 1a und 1b haben, wobei dann innerhalb der Kanäle 89 Führungen für das bandförmige Gut 1a und 1b vorgesehen sein müssen.It can be seen from FIGS. 2c to 2e that the strip-like material 1a and 1b is only partially aluminized, in the region of the channels 89. If the strip-shaped material 1a and 1b is to be aluminized over the entire width, the electrolyte must have access to it have the entire width of the goods to be treated 1a and 1b, 89 guides for the band-shaped goods 1a and 1b then having to be provided within the channels.

Wie Figur 2 zeigt, sind auch die Kammern 29 bis 36 der Schleusenanordnungen 4 und 6 relativ einfach herzustellen, da sie praktisch nur aus viereckigen Kammerwänden 38 bis 47 sowie den Vierkantrohren 37 bestehen. Bei der Ausführung nach Figur 2 werden zwei bandförmige Güter 1a a und 1 b gleichzeitig aluminiert.

Figure imgb0001
Figure imgb0002
 As FIG. 2 shows, the chambers 29 to 36 of the lock arrangements 4 and 6 are also relatively easy to manufacture, since they practically consist only of square chamber walls 38 to 47 and the square tubes 37. In the embodiment according to FIG. 2, two band-shaped goods 1a a and 1 b are aluminized at the same time.
Figure imgb0001
Figure imgb0002

Claims (9)

1. An arrangement for electrodepositing metals, in particular aluminium from aprotric, organo-aluminium elektrolytes which are free from oxygen und hydrogen, on to wire-shaped, tubular or strip-shaped material, comprising a tube cell, closed-off from the exterior, through which the cathodically-contacted material to be treated can be moved, preferably continuously, along anodes in the axial direction, and through which the electrolyte can be pumped angainst the direction of movement of the material with the aid of a closed electrolyte circulating system, in which at each end of the tube cell a liquid lock arrangement is arranged which prevents escape of the electrolyte from the tube cell and which in each case consists of a plurality of chambers, characterised in that the tube cell (5) consists of a plurality of square pipes (5a, 5b), preferably made of metal, which can be flangedly connected to one another and in which exchangeable non-conductive inserts (80, 81) are arranged which, on the one hand, are matched to the internal width of the square pipes (5a, 5b) and, on the other hand, are so shaped that they provide longitudinal grooves (82, 83, 84) and channels (89) for the passage of the material (1a, 1b) to be aluminized, the anodes (85, 86) which surround the material (1a, 1b) to be treated, and the electrolyte.
2. An arrangement as claimed in Claim 1, characterised in that the exchangeable inserts (80, 81) are arranged opposite one another, the outer sides of the inserts being matched to the internal dimensions of the square pipes (5a, 5b) and the oppositely arranged sides of the inserts being provided with recesses (82, 83, 84) for covering the material (1 a, 1 b) to be treated an the electrolyte, and for holding the anodes (85, 86) which surround the material (1 a, 1 b) to be treated.
3. An arrangement as claimed in Claim 2, characterised in that the recesses (82, 83, 84) for the anodes (85, 86) are so designed that the two inserts (80, 81) are supported on the anodes (85, 86).
4. An arrangement as claimed in Claim 2 or Claim 3, characterised in that the inserts (80, 81) are firmly connected to the anodes (85, 86) in such a way that they form a unit which can be inserted into the square pipes (5a, 5b), the length of the unit being such that the end face of the unit does not fall in the plane of the connecting flanges of the square pipes (5a, 5b).
5. An arrangement as claimed in one of Claims 1 to 4, characterised in that contact pins (90, 91), which can be insert in insulated manner from the exterior of the square pipes (1 a, 1 b), are used for the contacting of the anodes (85, 86).
6. An arrangement as claimed in one of Claims 1 to 5, characterised in that, for contacting the material (1a, 1b) to be treated, resilient contact pins (97) are used which can be inserted into the square pipes (5a, 5b) from the outside in insulated and sealed manner and which terminate in the longitudinal grooves (84) for leading the material (1 a, 1 b) to be treated.
7. An arrangement as claimed in one of Claims 1 to 6, characterised in that the chambers ( 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36) of the liquid lock arrangements (4, 6) also have a rectangular shape in cross-section.
8. An arrangement as claimed in one of Claims 1 to 7, characterised in that the inserts (80, 81) of the tube cell (1) and the chambers (29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36) of the liquid lock arrangements (4, 6) are so designed that a plurality of strip-shaped workpieces (1a, 1b) can be continuously electroplated at the same time.
9. An arrangement as claimed in one of Claims 1 to 8, characterised in that the inserts (80, 81) which are connected to form a unit, can be pressed against the inner walls of the square pipes (5a, 5b) with the help of centering springs (95,96).
EP82107244A 1981-09-23 1982-08-10 Apparatus for electroplating metals, particularly aluminium Expired EP0075099B1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
AT82107244T ATE13913T1 (en) 1981-09-23 1982-08-10 SYSTEM FOR ELECTROPLATING METALS, ESPECIALLY ALUMINUM.

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE3137908 1981-09-23
DE19813137908 DE3137908A1 (en) 1981-09-23 1981-09-23 SYSTEM FOR GALVANIC DEPOSITION OF METALS, ESPECIALLY ALUMINUM

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP0075099A1 EP0075099A1 (en) 1983-03-30
EP0075099B1 true EP0075099B1 (en) 1985-06-19

Family

ID=6142436

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP82107244A Expired EP0075099B1 (en) 1981-09-23 1982-08-10 Apparatus for electroplating metals, particularly aluminium

Country Status (7)

Country Link
US (1) US4419204A (en)
EP (1) EP0075099B1 (en)
JP (1) JPS5873789A (en)
AT (1) ATE13913T1 (en)
BR (1) BR8205541A (en)
DE (2) DE3137908A1 (en)
ZA (1) ZA826954B (en)

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE19716493A1 (en) * 1997-04-19 1998-10-22 Aluminal Oberflaechentechnik Process for the electrolytic coating of metallic or non-metallic continuous products and device for carrying out the process

Families Citing this family (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US9157160B2 (en) 2013-08-22 2015-10-13 Ashworth Bros., Inc. System and method for electropolishing or electroplating conveyor belts

Family Cites Families (8)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US1768358A (en) * 1925-05-21 1930-06-24 Florence M Harrison Electrolytic process and apparatus
US2445675A (en) * 1941-11-22 1948-07-20 William C Lang Apparatus for producing coated wire by continuous process
US2974097A (en) * 1957-11-12 1961-03-07 Reynolds Metals Co Electrolytic means for treating metal
GB1135023A (en) * 1965-01-28 1968-11-27 Wilkinson Sword Ltd Improvements in or relating to the production of cutting edges
BE761101A (en) * 1970-03-25 1971-05-27 Nisshin Steel Co Ltd DEVICE FOR GALVANO-PLASTIC METALLIZATION OF METALS
US3865701A (en) * 1973-03-06 1975-02-11 American Chem & Refining Co Method for continuous high speed electroplating of strip, wire and the like
US4220506A (en) * 1978-12-11 1980-09-02 Bell Telephone Laboratories, Incorporated Process for plating solder
JPS6128756A (en) * 1984-07-18 1986-02-08 Nippon Denso Co Ltd Starter with planet gear reduction mechanism

Cited By (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE19716493A1 (en) * 1997-04-19 1998-10-22 Aluminal Oberflaechentechnik Process for the electrolytic coating of metallic or non-metallic continuous products and device for carrying out the process
DE19716493C2 (en) * 1997-04-19 2001-11-29 Aluminal Oberflaechentechnik Process for the electrolytic coating of metallic or non-metallic continuous products and device for carrying out the process

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
BR8205541A (en) 1983-08-30
ZA826954B (en) 1983-07-27
JPH0237435B2 (en) 1990-08-24
JPS5873789A (en) 1983-05-04
ATE13913T1 (en) 1985-07-15
DE3264274D1 (en) 1985-07-25
EP0075099A1 (en) 1983-03-30
US4419204A (en) 1983-12-06
DE3137908A1 (en) 1983-04-07

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