The Most Precise of Finishing Tolerances

Tin/Lead

Elkem is an industry leading wire supplier of functional tin/lead plating services to ASTM B579 and MIL-P-81728. Our fifty years of metallurgical expertise in providing precision plated wire is currently present in numerous industries including the medical, electronic, aerospace and defense industries.

Elkem offers a complete range of tin/lead plating services including bright and matte deposits. Elkem has the capability to apply an under-plate (flash) of nickel or copper prior to adhering the main plate deposit.

Tin/Lead Plating Services – Tin/Lead Deposit Properties

Tin/Lead plating offers strong electrical conductivity, corrosion resistance and provides unsurpassed solderability of base metals that are not otherwise effectively soldered to. Tin/Lead plating is best in aeronautical and aerospace applications as the addition of lead prevents the forming of "tin whiskers". Tin whiskers are the cause of electrical failure due to their growth and penetration of electrical cabling resulting in a short circuit.

Elkem offers tin/lead plated wire in both bright (die-burnished) and matte electrodeposits. The tin to lead ratios offered are 95/5, 90/10 and 60/40 respectively.

The appearance of tin/lead plating is very much a function of that of the bare wire. If the bare wire has a matte finish, the tin plating deposit will have more of a matte luster. If the bare wire has a bright finish, the tin plating will have a more lustrous appearance.

Tin/Lead Plating Services

Specifications:
  • MIL-P-81728
  • ASTM B579
  • Most Company Specific Specifications
Underplates Provided:
  • Electrolytic Nickel
  • Copper
Purity:
  • 95/5 - 95% Tin 5% Lead
  • 90/10 - 90% Tin 10% Lead
  • 60/40 - 60% Tin 40% Lead
Finish Type:
  • Matte
  • Bright (Die-Burnished)