This instructable shows how to make a nickel anode for electroplating for use with A_Steingrub's Nickel Electroplating Method
, It works well for oddly shaped pieces such as these 1" ingots.
- Clamp the piece between two pieces of wood. Wood is a poor heat conductor so it will be easier to heat it.
- File the piece so that it has a flat top. This will make it easier to drill.
- Center-punch the nickel with a carbide scribing tool, steel may work, but nickel is a tough metal.
- Drill a hole 1/8" to 1/4" into the nickel, use cutting/cooling fluid.
- Clean the hole with a paper towel and acetone.
- Put a ball of flux-core solder into the hole.
- Heat the nickel until solder is liquid Be careful not to point the flame at the wood.
- Insert a wire which has been partially stripped of insulation.
- When bonded, use water to cool the nickel. This will prevent insulation from melting.
- Remove flux / stains using a metal brush.
- Lightly heat the nickel so that hot glue melts on it.
- Melt hot-glue near the wire-nickel junction to seal it.