About Electroforming
Electroforming is a method to create the reverse of a master model by thick plating the surface of the master model and exfoliating it from the master model. This method uses electrochemical reactions in the same way as electroplating.
Electroforming fabrication
Master model
Product
Special features of electroforming
Superior transferability, high dimensional precision
Comparison of transfer precision for micro lens array electroforming
Electroforming fabrication
Master model
Depth: 43.69 μm
Electroforming mold
Depth: 43.69 μm
Fabricating nano-structure of fine-pitch/high-aspect ratio
Electroforming mold reversing the microscopic pattern model
Electrodeposited metal may be adjusted for physical properties, e.g., hardness and tensile strength, as well as chemical properties, e.g., corrosion resistance, according to its specific use.
Properties of electroformed nickel
| Ni | Ni-25％Co | |
|---|---|---|
| Hardness(Hv) | 200〜250 | 450〜500 |
| Tensile strength(MPa) | 550〜570 | 1300〜1500 |
| Elongation(%) | 17〜20 | 0.5〜1.5 |
| Young’s modulus(GPa) | 185 | 192 |
| Thermal expansion coefficient(×10-6/k) | 12.5〜13.0 | 11.0〜11.5 |
| Thermal conductivity(W/mK) | 90.5 |
Materials for the master may be selected according to its use.
Metal master model
- Copper and copper alloy
- Aluminum and aluminum alloy
- Stainless steel and super alloy
- Electroless nickel phosphorous plating
Electroforming manufacturing steps
Master model
Non-conductive materials: Conductive treatment, sputtering, chemical platingConductive materials: Release treatment
Electroforming fabrication
Completion of electrodeposition
Mechanical machining/release
Completion (Mold insert)
Non-metallic master model
- Epoxy resin
- Acrylic resin
- Silicon wafer, glass
- Formed parts (ABS resin)
Electroforming manufacturing steps
Emboss processing
Silicon inversion model
Master model
Electroforming fabrication
Ni mold
Any shapes and sizes of products can be produced by electroforming bath.
Large electroforming apparatus with a capacity of 60,000 liters
An electroforming bath is installed in Class 10000 clean room to manufacture high-quality products.