The conductor coating continuity test objective is to examine the conductor plating quality before it is subject to stranding or the insulation application process. As part of the test, the durability of the conductor coating is stressed with both mechanical and thermal stresses.
General Procedures: For this test, a length of nickel plated conductor is taken and placed under a mechanical stress (typically bending the conductor). The conductor is then subjected to multiple thermal cycles. After the thermal cycling is completed, the wire is subjected to a corrosive solution that reacts with copper conductor but not the plating. In this way, if there is any residue of a chemical reaction, there is evidence of cracking or the plating. Those samples that show signs of a chemical reaction typically are considered having failed this test.