Gold plated Tungsten and Molybdenum wire for demanding applications

Purpose and goal:

Main goal: Develop a new electrolytical plating process to produce an Au coated W and Mo ultra-thin wire ( 20 µm) with enhanced quality; also to develop a new digital vision system for on-line quality control. A Ni free patentable adhesion promoter and a process optimization has been performed, resulting in improved market positions in medicine and space applications.

A highly customized vision system has been innovated for the ultra-thin wires. The enhanced fundamental knowledge established will be a base for further development of Luma. Expected results and effects:

The Ni free and optimized process innovations, including the vision system are expected to result in higher quality and an improved sustainability of Luma´s business and the customers of Luma. A prolonged lifetime of the processes and less energy consumption and improvements of the work environment is to be expected. Future removal of H2(g) in the process may also be a consequence.

The market position will be significantly improved. The project will also result in data for several scientific publications. Approach and implementation:

Despite the COVID-19, good communication and the management have been fulfilled. All parties have been important and all have performed their commitments. Fixed monthly digital meetings have been held. Each sub-group (vision, electrochemistry) has been responsible for internal meetings and reported to everyone during the monthly meetings.

Quarterly reports have been written. 2 physical workshops have been carried out. Additional physical meetings have taken place within the two groups (2 times).