Hard chrome plating is an electrochemical process, used to deposit a layer of chrome on a base material. Hard chrome plating, also called industrial chrome plating, is used primarily on parts requiring high hardness and abrasion resistence or to extend the durability of parts.
Thanks to its excellent properties, hard chrome is used in a wide variety of applications. One of the advantages of hard chrome is the ability to deposit thick layers, making it an excellent coating for renovation of used parts. Hard chrome is not suitable as a replacement for decorative chrome plating.
The technology of hard chrome plating is a modern process with a content of sulphate and organic catalyst without a content of florids. Chrome platings released in this process have a microfissure structure and they feature a higher resistance to corrosion, hardness and abrasion than conventional processes.
Surface properties
- High hardness: 850-1100 HV (66-70 HRC)
- High abrasion resistance
- Good corrosion resistance
- Low coefficient of friction: hard chrome on steel - static: 0.19
- Nonadhesive surface
- Extends durability of parts
Layer thickness
- 5 µm - 1 mm
Part dimensions
- Lengths up to 2.7 m
- Maximum weight of 2000 kg
Base materials
- Steel
- Cast iron
- Some types of stainless steel
- Brass
- Copper
Applications
Hard chrome plating is used in many different applications. It is used to treat new and used components to protect them with a abrasion and corrosion resistant, hard layer of chrome. The following are examples of its usage:
- General industry: Rods and tubes of hydraulic cylinders, motor shafts, dies, couplers, rail car wheel bearings, brackets, etc.
- Automotive industry: Engine and power train parts such as piston rings and valves, shock absorbers, pneumatic struts, etc.
- Parts for aircraft, textile, and paper industries, forms for rubber and plastics industries, and many other applications