Chrome plating of metal products

The method of electroplating chromium has been used by manufacturers for over 100 years. Despite the great age of the technology, it still remains relevant. The finished coating not only improves the protective properties of the product, but also changes its appearance for the better. Chromium has an important property: it can be passivated in the air if it is exposed to oxidizing agents. This ability can significantly increase the durability of the protective layer for a metal workpiece. Chrome plating, as a type of metal treatment, is used to protect metal billets or products from rusting, increase strength and for decorative purposes.

Main types of chrome coatings

Depending on the functional aspect, chrome plating can be anti-corrosion, protective, anti-friction and wear-resistant. Protective coatings are created for products made of aluminum, zinc, brass, copper and steel. Finished metal parts are often exposed to external destructive factors. Thanks to chrome plating, the metal is able to retain its properties in a moderately aggressive environment. The protection is applied in several layers, and chrome is added as an outer layer. A polished chrome surface is able to reflect light. This indicator is slightly lower than for silver. However, the use of chrome makes it possible to preserve the original appearance of a metal part for a long time. Very often this technology is used in the production of low-value reflectors. This type of coating can have a different degree of light reflection. Depending on the intensity of the application, a layer can be obtained that absorbs light. Resistant and anti-friction coating is used for products that are constantly in contact with other surfaces. Chromium greatly reduces the coefficient of friction between the parts of the mechanism inside the equipment, which also leads to a decrease in heat generation during the operation of the device. The part is coated with chrome during the manufacturing process or during the restoration of the coating of parts whose outer layer has already been destroyed. Chromium plating allows you to correct a defective part that does not meet the parameters. The feasibility of using this technology is determined by the degree of wear.

Advantages of using chrome

The special properties of this metal can significantly increase the service life of a part. This technology is also used to improve product quality. Chrome plating is used for dies and molds that are used to process rubber and other types of materials. Very often, a protective layer is applied to rollers and paper rolling equipment. In this case, chromium stands out among other metals due to its low level of soaking and chemical inertness. The paper is easily separated from the chrome coating. The technology described above is often used to restore the coating of engines for transport – it is possible to restore cylinders, piston rings and other components. The disadvantage of chromium plating is the porous structure of the layer, but it is possible to achieve a porous shiny surface with the use of certain types of equipment.