Polamar Precision has cut lead times and increased throughput on aerospace engine components with an in-house selective plating process.
US-based Polamer Precision is a global aerospace manufacturing company which specializes in complex components for demanding applications. Having worked with SIFCO ASC on a plating application for an engine component for many years, the company harnessed the expertise of SIFCO ASC’s engineers to bring the process in-house. The move helps Polamer to increase throughput, save costs and ensure complete ownership of the quality management process.
Aerospace components need to be able to withstand friction, high temperatures and corrosive environments while continuing to operate at optimum levels. Performance and reliability of components are paramount, while stringent regulations and market competition mean that manufacturers need to find innovative solutions to fulfil requirements.
Selective plating offers a method of electroplating localized areas without the use of an immersion tank. When compared with traditional tank plating methods, the process uses a lower volume of chemicals, offering a reduced environmental impact at a lower cost. Deposits have excellent adhesion and can be plated at rates that are 30 to 60 times faster than conventional tank plating.
Thomas Chapman, Northeast Sales Manager at SIFCO ASC, said: “The process was previously completed by one of our network of job shops, which undertook the plating process from start to finish.
“In order to increase throughput, shorten lead-times and meet increased demand, we worked with the team at Polamer Precision to specify and install a custom workstation, enabling them to incorporate the process into their own production line.”
Derek Waszczuk, VP of Operations at Polamer Precision, explains: “By bringing our plating operation in-house, we’ve been able to double our output and reduce lead time by eliminating the need to ship products to an outside supplier.
“Strict quality control is a key facet of our operations. The system gives us complete ownership of the manufacturing and quality control process, from raw material through to delivery, allowing us to better serve our customers.”