Umicore Group’s Metal Deposition Solutions (MDS) business unit has introduced a groundbreaking gold-silver electrolyte, AURUNA® 5750, which offers exceptional quality in electroplating technology. Designed to provide a high-performance solution for both decorative and technical gold plating applications, AURUNA® 5750 combines outstanding functionality with cost efficiency, setting a new benchmark in the industry.
In light of the recent sharp rise in gold prices, products requiring gold plating—whether for aesthetic or technical purposes—have become significantly more expensive to manufacture. This price surge has made gold-plated products less attractive to many customers, as production costs escalate. To address this challenge, Umicore has developed AURUNA® 5750, a gold-silver electrolyte that forms 12-carat intermediate and final layers with equal parts gold and silver. This unique alloy combination enables a cost-saving of approximately 60% in precious metal expenses compared to pure gold plating.
Key Features of AURUNA® 5750
AURUNA® 5750 not only offers a cost-efficient solution but also excels in performance. The electroplated layers exhibit remarkable ductility (220 HV hardness according to the Vickers scale), which is typically not found in hard gold. Despite this flexibility, the layers demonstrate extraordinary abrasion resistance. According to the Bosch-Weinmann test, AURUNA® 5750 achieves very low abrasion and layer removal values compared to conventional gold alloys, thanks to the high hardness and lubricating properties of silver. In fact, its abrasion resistance is almost halved when compared to gold-iron or gold-cobalt alloys, which also result in a gold-yellow deposition.
Versatility and Application
AURUNA® 5750 is particularly versatile, making it ideal not only for cost-effective gold plating with an elegant pastel gold finish but also for protective and color-preserving intermediate layers. It is suitable for applications such as jewelry and plug contacts, where a more intense gold tone is desired. The coatings, due to the high silver content, are exceptionally flexible and resistant, maintaining their shine even with thicker layers.
In summary, AURUNA® 5750 provides a highly efficient and economical alternative for manufacturers seeking gold-plated products without compromising on quality. Its unique blend of gold and silver offers significant cost savings, while its superior physical properties make it a top choice for a range of plating applications.
Related topics:
