
Nickel plating produces even higher degrees of hardness when compared to chrome, and it touts better corrosion resistance, too. We complete the process with a highly acidic, all-chloride solution, which requires extensive time to take hold.īenefits of Electroless Nickel Plating for Steel You can still apply a nickel layer to stainless steel with the right procedure, which includes a pre-plate sequence that calls for thorough cleaning and a nickel strike. That said, stainless steel can be significantly more complicated due to the level of other constituents present. The process is highly stable and produces an even nickel coating. Likewise to hard chrome plating on steel, nickel plating on carbon and mild steel does not differ much from other metals. Rather than use electricity, we submerge the steel in an aqueous solution that utilizes chemical agents to reduce the nickel ions and facilitate deposition. Chrome plating of steel parts is very common industrially for parts that require enhanced corrosion and wear resistance. You can also plate motorcycle parts, lug nuts, brake pedals, construction bars, rods, screws and home hardware - such as faucets, cabinet pulls, door handles and more. If you want to add better corrosion protection and a distinctive shine, you'll often see chrome plating used on vehicle bumpers and other accessories, like hood ornaments and grills. What Are Common Applications for Chrome Plating on Steel? An added layer of protection never hurts when you're looking to keep your operating and maintenance costs low. After all, chromium's effects can take hold only once it forms a forms a chromium oxide film, which can be quite difficult in low-oxygen, low-circulation places. Stainless steel, which already contains a percentage of chromium, is resistant to those problems to a degree, but it can still succumb to them. The chromium will drastically increase a steel component's performance in environments with lower moisture and reduced air circulation. However, hard chrome plating can help with these problems. Most forms of steel feature lower resistance to corrosion and impact, which can severely affect how your structures and machines perform on a long-term basis. Hard chrome plating on carbon steel, stainless steel and other variations will vary in their respective benefits, as their compositions slightly affect the results. Stainless steel differs slightly, as we have to activate it in a sulfuric acid between cleaning and plating.

By carefully monitoring the gradual increase of voltage, we can create robust coatings that precisely match your requirements.

We'll then transfer the item to the chrome bath and allow it to sit for a few moments before connecting electricity. We can use muriatic acid to deoxidize steel, too. Plating processes for steel generally follow the same guidelines for other metals. If you're looking for hard chrome plating on steel, we will first plunge your item into a solvent that cleanses the surface of dirt, grease and other imperfections that might affect the chromium's deposition. Our results will be of high quality and to your specifications. Hard Chrome Specialists offers responsive, friendly service and quick turnaround times, as we can apply chrome and electroless nickel plating to your carbon and stainless steel items. High maintenance costs and vulnerability to rust can be difficult to work around, but you can minimize these disadvantages with appropriate metal plating solutions. Steel is one of the most widely used metals in the world, but its inherent weaknesses can cause issues for all kinds of businesses and industries.
