Enhancing Air Knife Performance to Reduce Discoloration Defect in Electroplating Process

Abstract

Electroplating enhances material properties such as corrosion resistance, conductivity, wear resistance, and visual appeal. Discoloration on Integrated Circuit Package remains a common defect in electronics manufacturing, affecting product quality and customer confidence. This research focuses on improving the Air Knife by redesigning slit nozzle on the air knife. The slit nozzle is a narrow opening that sprays pressurized air to remove residual plating solution on the product. The slit dimension was modified within the allowable range of 0.2 mm to 0.5 mm. Results show that increasing the slit from original 0.2 mm to 0.5 mm reduces discoloration defects by approximately 85%, without compromising airflow stability or drying efficiency. The optimized 0.5 mm configuration proves most effective in minimizing visual defects while maintaining air output quality. This research demonstrates significant improvement in product appearance, process control, and quality assurance through equipment optimization.