[seanc]

Rab:

I don't know if the UK kit chemicals are different than the US ones or not, so be sure to check with Caswell first. I can't say if you have the original or new formula electrolyte.

Even in the US, the electrolyte is a liquid concentrate, not dry crystals. Once mixed w/water, there is no visual difference. The original concentrate was @ 1/3 solids that had settled to the bottom of the bottle. The new concentrate is @ 2/3 solids. That's the only way I know of to tell the difference.

With the original formula, temperature should be between 60-90º F (15-32º C), and current density between 75-100 mA/sq-in. (.075-.100 A).

With the new formula, temperature should be 110º F (43º C), and current density 140mA/sq-in. (.140 A).

With the brightener added, your parts should come out bright silver. If they're still coming out dark, it's likely your current is either too high or too low.

Fizzing is not a reliable indicator, as it varies greatly depending in total size of parts, temperature of bath, current density, and distance between anodes & part. However, there should be some fizzing. Even very small parts will fizz, but it's very slight.

If you crank the current way up, it should be fizzing furiously. If this doesn't happen, then something else is wrong.

Sean