High performance properties for high frequency applications, by combining silver coatings and Rheo cast aluminium

Important results from the project

The main objective of the project was to develop a coating process for telecommunications components in a cost effective way to improve performance and reduce their environmental impact. This can be achieved by introducing the Rheo casting technique to increase the quality of the surface of aluminum casted filters and to minimize the need for after treatment. To get the necessary electrical properties of these aluminum components, the surface must be coated with silver and is done using advanced pulsed plating technique.

Expected long term effects

The project has directly resulted in a prototype for a new telecom filter. It is shortly to be expected to lead to a new product from Microdata. The results of silver plating are implemented by the Austrian research partner. These results will also be conveyed directly to Swedish coating companies active in the silver plating of electronics and telecommunication products. This is expected to lead to cost savings and quality improvements in production.

Approach and implementation

It was necessary to have a consortium of partners covering the whole chain from process development to component design and manufacturing. Without this consortium it would not have been possible to fully understand all of the details. Furthermore, it would not have been possible to control the project as efficiently towards problem solving combined with scientific understanding.