As a crucial component in high-end electrolysis, the manufacturing process of titanium cathode plates encompasses multiple precise stages, from raw material preparation to finished product inspection. Each step requires strict control based on material properties and electrochemical application requirements to ensure the realization of its comprehensive advantages in corrosion resistance, conductivity uniformity, and mechanical stability.
The process begins with the selection and pretreatment of the titanium substrate. Industrial pure titanium or titanium alloy plates are typically used, with the grade and thickness selected based on product specifications and process loads. Upon arrival at the factory, the raw materials undergo chemical composition analysis and surface quality inspection to eliminate defects such as inclusions, cracks, and obvious scratches. Subsequently, materials are cut to the dimensions specified in the drawings using methods such as plasma cutting, laser cutting, or water jet cutting. The cutting process requires controlled heat input to avoid grain coarsening or surface hardening caused by high temperatures; cooling liquid may be used when necessary.
After cutting, the process enters the forming and processing stage. The specified plate shape and mounting hole positions are obtained through CNC punching, rolling, or machining. Simultaneously, the edges are chamfered or deburred to prevent stress concentration and damage during handling. After forming, stress-relief annealing is performed to reduce internal residual stress and prevent warping and microcracks under subsequent electrolysis or mechanical loading. During this stage, flatness, dimensional tolerances, and hole position accuracy must be checked to ensure compliance with subsequent assembly requirements.
Surface treatment is a crucial step in determining the electrochemical performance of the titanium cathode plate. First, mechanical polishing or electrolytic polishing is performed to remove machining marks and obtain a low-roughness surface, facilitating uniform metal ion deposition. Subsequently, chemical passivation or anodizing is performed to form a dense and stable oxide film on the titanium surface, improving corrosion resistance and environmental adaptability. For special applications, a noble metal oxide catalyst layer or other functional coating can be coated on the surface, and high-temperature sintering or curing processes ensure uniform and firm adhesion of the film. Coating preparation requires strict control of thickness and coverage to avoid defects such as pinholes and peeling.
The processing and integration of conductive connection structures follow immediately. Conductive lugs are welded or machined at designated locations on the board according to the design. Titanium welding should employ inert gas shielded welding to prevent oxidation and embrittlement. The connection surfaces between the lugs and busbars must be flat and treated to prevent galvanic corrosion, such as by adding transition plates or insulating gaskets, to ensure low impedance and long-term reliable contact. Multi-point parallel arrangement can be implemented on large boards to optimize current distribution and reduce the risk of localized heating.
After assembly, the finished product undergoes inspection. Inspection includes testing for appearance quality, dimensional accuracy, surface roughness, passivation film integrity, coating adhesion, and conductivity. Simulated electrolysis tests are conducted when necessary to evaluate stability and durability under actual operating conditions. Qualified products are batch-numbered, accompanied by inspection reports and protective instructions, and packaged for moisture-proof, dust-proof, and scratch-proof protection to ensure that the surface and structure are not damaged during storage and transportation.
The entire process demonstrates a deep integration of materials science, machining, surface engineering, and electrochemical technology. Precise control at every stage not only ensures the high standards of titanium cathode plates in terms of corrosion resistance, conductivity, and mechanical properties, but also lays a solid foundation for their reliable application in fields such as non-ferrous metal refining, precious metal recycling, electroplating, and high-end material preparation.
