Chrome Plating: Enhance Equipment Longevity and Performance

Hard Chrome Plating: Extending the Life of Your Equipment

It is likely that when you hear the terms “chrome plating”, “chromium plating” or even just the term “chrome” you visualize a shiny metal surface. Pop culture has jumped all over the bandwagon as it looks cool and represents strength and durability. But aesthetics aside, chrome has a very unique set of characteristics that provide value in many industrial and commercial applications.

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In this article we will dive into a brief history of chrome plating, what the chroming process is and how industry takes advantage of its many benefits. But before we go any further, lets address the most popular question about chrome…

Is Hard Chrome the same as Decorative Chrome?

The short answer is no. The biggest difference is the applied thickness. Although the process is similar, hard chrome plating and decorative chrome serve different functions:

Hard chrome is used in industrial or commercial applications to improve the life span and performance of equipment, especially that which sees heavy, repeated use or is exposed to extreme temperatures or climate.
Decorative chrome is primarily used for aesthetic appeal. Although it has similar benefits to hard chrome, it is applied much thinner and does not hold up against heavy industrial or commercial use. Think the automotive industry and the classic vehicles sporting chrome bumpers and mirrors, etc.

What is Hard Chrome Plating?

Hard chrome plating is a form of electroplating that is popular for its use as a surface coating. Long prized for its hardness, ability to minimize sliding wear, corrosion protection and for extending the life of metal parts, it can be found in many applications such as hydraulic and pneumatic cylinders, pump shafts and rotors, swivel posts and bodies, and downhole tools. In many cases it is used on components where there is metal-to-metal contact between moving parts due to its low coefficient of friction.

The terms “industrial chrome”, “engineered chrome” and even simply “hard chrome” are used interchangeably and all describe the same process.

Hard chrome can be applied from 0.” – 0.025” (0.012mm – 0.635mm) thick for a wide range of applications. Hard chrome is classified as a “cold” process where the operating temperature of 50 – 65 degrees Celsius ensures no damage to the physical or mechanical properties of the base material.

So, Why is Hard Chrome so Popular?

The success of hard chrome plating can be attributed to the many benefits and unique characteristics of the process. An increased hardness alone would be insufficient to secure widespread use due to the number of hard materials and hardening processes available. It is the combination of the improved qualities below that give chrome plating such remarkable results.

Increased Hardness 

Electro-deposited chrome is extremely hard, typically 66-70 HRC. Through hard chrome plating, the surface hardness of your component is increased without modifying its properties.

Low Friction

Hard chrome has a very low coefficient of friction when compared to steel. This allows a component to operate at a lower temperature during operation, extending the life of your equipment.

Wear Resistance 

The high hardness and low frictional properties of hard chrome, provide excellent resistance to abrasion and mechanical contact.

Corrosion Resistance

Hard chrome has a very high resistance to atmospheric oxidation and a good resistance to most oxidizing and reducing agents (with the exception to Chlorides and other Halides).

Sacrificial Wear Layer 

Since hard chrome deposits can be removed in chrome shops with chemical strippers, without destructive effect to base material, the part can be stripped and re-plated repeatedly when worn.

Lubricant Retention 

Microcrack characteristics of hard chrome allows for oil retention which improves lubricity of plated parts.

The Electroplating Process

Electroplating is the process of applying a metal coating on another piece of metal (or conductive surface) through electro-deposition. Chromium plating, copper plating and silver plating are all specific types of electroplating.

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Both an anode and a cathode (the part to be coated) are immersed in an electrolytic bath that is composed of a solution of salts, including the metal to be plated. An electrical (DC) direct current is passed through the solution, effecting the transfer of metal ions onto the cathodic surface.

The result is a completely adhered layer of chromium that will extend the life of your parts and components.

Prepping a Workpiece

Before chrome plating a workpiece, it needs to be prepped for ideal chrome adherence. All residual traces of dirt and surface impurities are removed manually and the piece is degreased to remove heavy soiling.

The next step is pre-polishing. The workpiece is brought to a consistent size and surface finish. This is done either by running a sanding belt over the turning piece or by grinding.

Then finally before plating, the workpiece is masked to ensure only the intended areas of the workpiece are chromed. This is achieved through the use of tapes, shields and special plating fixtures comprising the holding mechanism. Specialty fixtures are commonly produced for the countless shapes and sizes of components required to be chromed.

Finishing

After plating, the workpiece is removed from the bath and polished or ground to a precise finish size. Almost any required finish can be achieved, but due to its extreme hardness proper stones, belts, wheels must be used.

A hollow workpiece, such as a hydraulic cylinder stage, is honed to remove residual chrome build up on the inside diameter. Most honing and grinding shops are qualified to hone or grind chromium. If required, consult your local chrome shop.

When it comes to enhancing the durability and performance of metal components, hard chrome plating services have long been a trusted solution. These services offer a multitude of benefits, from improving corrosion resistance to increasing wear resistance, making them indispensable in various industries.

The Advantages of Hard Chrome Plating Services

1. Enhanced Durability

One of the primary advantages of hard chrome plating is the substantial increase in the durability of treated components. Chrome plating creates a protective barrier on the surface of the metal, which significantly reduces wear and tear. This makes it an ideal choice for parts that experience friction, abrasion, or high-stress conditions, such as hydraulic cylinders, pistons, and engine components.

2. Corrosion Resistance

Chrome plating is well-known for its exceptional resistance to corrosion and oxidation. The layer of chromium acts as a barrier that prevents moisture, chemicals, and other corrosive elements from coming into contact with the underlying metal. This is especially valuable in industries like aerospace and marine, where exposure to harsh environmental conditions is common.

3. Improved Hardness

Hard chrome plating increases the hardness of the treated surface, making it more resistant to scratching and abrasive wear. This enhanced hardness contributes to extended component lifespans and improved performance, particularly in applications where friction and contact are constant.

4. Low Friction Coefficient

Another significant advantage of hard chrome plating is its low coefficient of friction. This property reduces friction between moving parts, resulting in less energy consumption, decreased heat generation, and smoother operation. It is particularly valuable in the manufacturing of hydraulic and pneumatic equipment.

5. Restoration of Worn Parts

Hard chrome plating can also be used to restore worn or damaged components. It effectively builds up material on worn surfaces, returning them to their original dimensions and functionality. This can be a cost-effective alternative to replacing expensive machine parts.

6. Versatile Applications

Hard chrome plating services find applications across various industries, including automotive, aerospace, oil and gas, manufacturing, and more. From enhancing the performance of engine parts to extending the life of hydraulic equipment, the versatility of chrome plating makes it a valuable solution in countless settings.

Barkens Hard Chrome: A Trusted Provider

When it comes to hard chrome plating services, Barkens Hard Chrome stands out as a trusted and reliable name in the industry. They offer a range of services tailored to meet the needs of diverse industries and applications. Here are some key reasons why Barkens Hard Chrome is a preferred choice:

1. Expertise and Experience

With years of experience, Barkens Hard Chrome has a team of skilled professionals who understand the nuances of hard chrome plating. Their expertise ensures that every project is handled with precision and care.

2. State-of-the-Art Facilities

Barkens Hard Chrome utilizes modern equipment and facilities to provide high-quality chrome plating services. Their advanced technology ensures consistent and dependable results.

3. Custom Solutions

They work closely with clients to understand their specific requirements and offer customized solutions. Whether you need corrosion resistance, wear resistance, or dimensional restoration, Barkens can tailor their services accordingly.

4. Quality Assurance

Quality is paramount at Barkens Hard Chrome. They maintain strict quality control measures throughout the plating process to deliver products that meet or exceed industry standards.

5. Timely Delivery

Barkens understands the importance of timely delivery in various industries. They are committed to completing projects on schedule, ensuring minimal downtime for their clients.

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