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Chrome plating, a process that makes metal shiny!

Release time:

2024-01-08

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Chrome plating is a process of plating a thin layer of chromium on metal. Chrome plating has two main functions, for decoration or as a protective layer.

Generally, chromium is chemically stable and does not react with most organic acids, sulfides, and alkalis, so chromium plating can prevent corrosion, improve wear resistance, and be used as a protective layer.

In addition, the appearance of the chrome layer is very smooth and is often used as decorative parts, such as automobile instruments, interiors, ornaments and other parts with appearance requirements.

The chrome plating process consists of five basic stages:

1, in addition to grease. Use chemicals to remove grease from the metal surface to ensure that the surface is free of components that affect the plating.

2, cleaning. Thoroughly cleaning the surface helps to remove dirt and residue, such as tiny dust particles.

3. The bottom (plated) metal needs to be treated to ensure that the metal surface is as smooth as possible, so as to ensure that the coating maintains a high integrity for a long time. Commonly used methods are copper plating, nickel plating and then hanging chrome.

4. Put the metal into a container containing the pretreatment solution, and let it gradually heat up to a suitable temperature to start chrome plating.

5. At the beginning of the electroplating process, the solution in the container is a mixed solution of chromium-containing compounds, and the compounds are allowed to etch to the metal surface (through electrochemical reaction). The coating thickness depends on the time the metal stays in the container.

Common classification of chrome plating are: bright chrome plating, matte chrome plating, hard chrome plating, etc.

When prepared in accordance with current industry standards, the chromium plating can withstand year-round exposure to air. The metal bumper on the car is a good example of electroplating. It can be used for decades and only requires general maintenance. Similarly, faucets and other chrome-plated products can ensure a long-term smooth appearance while ensuring long-term durability. Therefore, chromium plating is also one of the most commonly used metal surface treatment processes.

Key words:

Plating knowledge (III)

Chrome plating knowledge (II)

Plating knowledge (III)

Chrome plating knowledge (II)