So I’ve found the need to start doing copper plating for an atypical application (plated thru-holes for making circuit boards – basically copper on copper plating). Caswell seems to have the most complete kits, so I’m really thinking about using one of them for what I’m doing. I’ve got a few questions, though:

- What’s the growth speed difference between acid copper and flash copper? I know flash copper seems to be slower, but it seems as if the flash copper bath is lower maintenance and requires fewer consumables–it seems as if it might be worth it in the end for me.

- What consumables does acid copper require over the long term? Do I need to dispose of the bath at some point to replenish the chemicals at some point? From what I understand, I’ll need to replace the copper anodes, brightener (only one of them??) and sulfuric acid from time to time. Does anyone have a rough estimate per sq. in/ft of copper plated (to some thickness?)

- What consumables does flash copper require? From what I can tell, it’s only the copper anodes?

- How do I dispose of the electroplating baths if I ever need to empty them out?

- Is flash copper or acid copper smoother? I will be plating copper-on-copper that’s already very smooth and sanded off.

- What else would I need for either kit? I already have a high current power supply.

I know it’s tons of questions, but I really want to evaluate my choices before buying a kit, and Caswell’s website seems to be lacking on some of the technical details I need (can’t see the plating manual until I buy a kit!) I’m trying to set up a full scale hobbyist PCB fab system, and the electroplating is only a small fraction of the process, so I’d rather not end up spending more money than I need to on this step.

Thanks!