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Online tool allows intelligent electroplating

Edited by the Engineeringtalk editorial team Oct 20, 2006

A new software tool launched by Envirowise will help electroplaters produce detailed cost-benefit analyses for a range of surface treatment systems.

A new software tool launched by Envirowise will help electroplaters produce detailed cost-benefit analyses for a range of surface treatment systems - allowing them to optimise productivity and resource efficiency.

Platewise has been designed to reflect increasing pressures on the surface treatment industry to comply with environmental best practice and hazardous waste legislation.

Endorsed by the Surface Engineering Association and the Institute of Metal Finishing, Platewise covers a range of finishing processes including alkaline/acid zinc plating, nickel plating, chromic acid anodising, chromium III passivation and other operator-defined plating processes.

Importantly, it also covers the use of hexavalent chromium systems which are subject to increasing scrutiny by the Health and Safety Executive.

Following industry trials earlier this year, the tool is now available via the Envirowise website.

Technical consultant to the Platewise project, David Hemsley, says: "The impact of the pollution prevention and control (PPC) regulations and the resulting emphasis on best available techniques means there is a growing need for businesses to demonstrate that they are optimising environmental performance in their surface treatment processes".

"Platewise is a highly original and versatile tool which allows companies to enter their own data and create tailored, quantitative reports".

"While some initial investment is often required at the outset, this is usually minor and users can expect to receive payback within around 12 months".

"However, it is important to note that there is also huge potential for users of Platewise to identify long-term cost savings and process efficiencies too".

Heather Cholerton, Envirowise Programme Delivery Leader, says: "We believe Platewise offers significant benefits for the surface treatment industry".

"The tool is easily adapted for other surface treatment processes such as cadmium, copper and silver plating".

"Users can also access guidance on the classification of filter cake and other liquid and solid wastes in accordance with current hazardous waste regulations".