Case Study: Circuit Board Plating Company Uses NCT Rotary Turbine Vibrator for Improved Plating Consistency

Problem

A circuit board plating company was struggling with uneven plating results and trapped air bubbles during the electroplating process. These issues affected coating consistency and product quality, ultimately leading to increased rework and reduced efficiency.

Situation

To address the problem, the company turned to Martin Vibration Systems & Solutions for a solution that could enhance plating uniformity without adding complexity to their workflow. The answer came in the form of an NCT Rotary Turbine Pneumatic Vibrator mounted directly to the plating bar holding the circuit boards.

The bar was positioned in UHMW V-blocks, which allowed it to remain securely in place while still transmitting vibration effectively. When activated, the oil-free, non-impacting vibrator produced high-frequency agitation that promoted movement in the electrolyte solution and helped dislodge trapped air. The system operated quietly and required minimal upkeep thanks to its durable materials and low-maintenance design.

Solution

The implementation of the NCT Rotary Turbine Vibrator allowed the company to:

• Achieve more uniform plating across all board surfaces
• Minimize air bubble formation during the plating process
• Enhance electrolyte flow for improved material adhesion
• Operate quietly and reliably with a non-impacting, oil-free vibrator
• Maintain durability and simplicity using UHMW supports and low-maintenance components

This straightforward upgrade significantly improved product quality and consistency — without the need for costly equipment overhauls or added labor.