Changes

For a closely targeted electroplating of limited precious metal coating of contact springs so-called brush-electroplating cells are employed <xr id="fig:Brush Tampon plating cell"/> (Fig. 7.1). The “brush” or “tampon” consists of a roof shaped titanium metal part covered with a special felt-like material. The metal body has holes in defined spots through which the electrolyte reaches the felt. In the same spots is also the anode consisting of a fine platinum net. The pre-stamped and in the contact area pre-formed contact spring part is guided under a defined pressure over the electrolyte soaked felt material and gets wetted with the electrolyte. This allows the metal electroplating in highly selective spots.

[[File:Brush Tampon plating cell.jpg|right|thumb|Brush (or “Tampon”) plating cell; 1 Strip; 2 Anode; 3 Electrolyte feed; 4 Felt covered cell]]

For special applications, such as for example electronic component substrates, a dot shaped precious metal coating is required. This is achieved with two belt masks running synchronous to the carrier material. One of these two masks has windows which are open to the spot areas targeted for precious metal plating coverage.