METHOD FOR CROWN PLATING A CAMPLATE AND A METAL-PLATED CAMPLATE FORMED THEREBY

摘要

A method is provided for improving the load distribution on a ramp surface of a clutch mechanism, such as the camplate of an overrunning clutch for the turbocharger of a locomotive diesel engine. In addition, an improved camplate produced by such a method is also provided in accordance with this invention. The method involves an electroplating process in which the electrostatic field is uniquely shaped so as to concentrate the electrostatic flux at a central region of the ramp surface, such that a greater amount of plating metal is deposited in the central region of the ramp surface as compared to the edges of the ramp surface. As a result, the ramp surface has a crowned contour as defined by the plating alone, and does not require a pre- or post-plating crown grind operation. The crowned contour serves to advantageously distribute a load over the ramp surface, so as to promote a longer service life for the camplate.