We hear about the benefits of hard chrome plating all the time, but what does this process actually involve, and what kind of applications is it most commonly used for?
The Process
Hard chrome plating, sometimes known as functional chrome plating, is a multi-layered type of electroplating process that creates a tough layer of around 0.5mm. Each layer is applied via an electrolytic process, whereby the part is submerged in an acid-based chromic electrolyte, such as Chromium Trioxide Flake, which builds on the surface. The surface of the part acts as the cathode and a current is passed through the liquid which causes the chrome to plate it. Hard chrome plating should only be carried out by professionals, such as https://www.poeton.co.uk/advanced-treatments/apticote-100-hard-chrome-plating/, who have spent years perfecting the exact science of electroplating. Hard chrome plating can be applied to a wide range of metal surfaces, from steel, iron, brass and copper to bronze and nickel alloys.
Common Applications
As the name suggests, hard chrome plating is a heavy duty application. This means it is best used for heavy, industrial applications. It helps prevent issues with abrasion and corrosion, and is used in a wide variety of applications including parts such as valves, bearings and pumps. It is also used to refurbish worn parts. Hard chrome plating is used in all sorts of industries from mining, chemical, oil and gas to textiles, printing, food and pharmaceuticals.
Hard chrome plating, or functional chrome plating, is a hard-wearing, multilayered electroplating application, used to prevent corrosion and damage from abrasion to a wide range of parts and surfaces.
About the Author
