Cadmium alternative mil spec

  • Thread starter dingpud
  • Start date
In summary, there are suitable alternatives to cadmium finishes on hardware, such as tin-zinc coatings and vapor deposition of aluminum as covered under mil spec 83488. The military specifications are no longer kept up to date by the military and have been taken over by SAE. Other active specifications can be found through the DLA website or through a licensed online specs service. Sputtered aluminum can also be used as an alternative, and more information can be obtained from John Marshall.
  • #1
dingpud
199
1
Does anyone know if there is a published Military Specification which gives suitable alternatives to Cadmium finishes on hardware?

Thanks,
 
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  • #2
No idea about the military specifications, but tin-zinc coatings are an industry standard for applications where cadmium has been blacklisted.
 
  • #3
Mil spec are no longer kept up to date by the military. They were taken over by SAE and now start with an “A” for aerospace specs. You could check with SAE to see if they have made a replacement spec.

Otherwise I found this company that lists ASTM-B-633 which replaced the old standard which was QQ-C-416:

http://www.dfcis.com/dzfinish.html#rohs
 
  • #4
That's the one I've been looking for...thanks.

Correct, new specs aren't upkept by the Gov't, but there are a lot of specs out there which are still active and can be found at the following link:

http://assist.daps.dla.mil/quicksearch/

The search engine is kind of sensitive, so when typing in a number, make sure you don't have any numbers included.

One other nice thing with this site is if a spec is inactivated, they will typically list what the superceding document number is...

Thanks again for ASTM B 633...
 
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  • #5
It all depends on what you are looking for. Obviously you found what you need. The best thing to do is to talk someone into getting a license for an on-line specs service like IHS. All you would have to do is look up the MIL spec and it would tell you all you need including the cancellation and the new SAE or equivalent controlling spec.
 
  • #6
Cadmium can be replaced by vapor depositiong aluminum as covered under mil spec 83488.

Ion Vapor depostion of aluminum may be used. Also, sputtered aluminum satisfies 83488. Information on sputtering equipment for such aluminum coatings can be received from John Marshall, jay3marsh@aol.com
 
  • #7
Cadmium can be replaced by vapor deposition aluminum as covered under mil spec 83488.

Ion Vapor deposition of aluminum may be used. Also, sputtered aluminum satisfies 83488. Information on sputtering equipment for such aluminum coatings can be received from John Marshall, jay3marsh@aol.com
 

What is Cadmium Alternative Mil Spec?

Cadmium alternative mil spec is a set of specifications that outline the requirements for a substitute material or process to be used in place of cadmium, a toxic heavy metal commonly used in military equipment and components.

Why is there a need for a Cadmium Alternative Mil Spec?

Cadmium is a known carcinogen and poses significant health and environmental risks. As a result, there is a growing demand for alternatives to cadmium in military applications.

What materials can be used as replacements for Cadmium?

Some common materials used as substitutes for cadmium include zinc-nickel alloy, zinc-cobalt alloy, and aluminum. These materials have similar properties to cadmium and can meet the performance requirements outlined in the mil spec.

What are the benefits of using a Cadmium Alternative Mil Spec?

The use of cadmium alternatives reduces the risk of exposure to a toxic substance and helps to protect the environment. It also ensures compliance with regulations and promotes sustainability in military operations.

How are Cadmium Alternative Mil Spec materials tested for compliance?

The materials must undergo rigorous testing to ensure they meet the requirements outlined in the mil spec. This may include tests for corrosion resistance, adhesion, and performance under extreme conditions. Independent laboratories are often used to conduct these tests and provide certification of compliance.

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