The chrome bath is the heart of all hard chrome plating, it is here that industrial parts get their durable and corrosion-resistant surface. Electroplating builds up a hard layer of metallic chrome on the surface of the part. It may sound simple, but behind every successful hard chrome plating is a carefully controlled process, advanced equipment and years of experience.
What happens in a chrome bath during hard chrome plating
Before hard chrome plating can begin, the part must be thoroughly cleaned. All dirt, grease and oxidation are removed to ensure that the chrome adheres properly. At Lomma Hårdkrom, all surfaces are pre-treated by grinding or polishing to provide better adhesion and corrosion protection before the part goes on for degreasing and cleaning. It is a long and careful process before details are lowered into the bath, and it is thanks to this method that we can offer hard chrome plating of the highest quality.
Electroplating in the chrome bath
Once the surface is prepared, the part is immersed in a chromium bath filled with a chromium-containing electrolyte solution, usually based on chromic acid. A direct electric current is then applied, with the part acting as the cathode, while a metal anode is used on the positive side. As the current passes through the solution, the chromium ions are drawn towards the part and adhere to its surface. This builds up a thin, dense and extremely hard layer of metallic chromium.
Finishing
Once the chrome layer has reached the desired thickness, the part is removed from the bath and rinsed thoroughly. Depending on the precision and surface finish required, it can then be ground or polished, leaving a smooth, dense and durable surface ready for industrial use.
Unlike decorative chrome, which is mainly used for appearance, hard chrome plating is a technical surface treatment. Its purpose is to give the material improved properties such as higher wear resistance, reduced friction and protection against corrosion and chemical wear.
The process requires both precision and experience. For the layer to be even and adhere correctly, the amperage, bath temperature and chromium concentration must be carefully controlled. The geometry of the part also affects the result, such as the thickness of the chromium on edges or in cavities.
Technology and precision in modern chrome baths
A modern chrome bath is an advanced technical environment where small variations can make a big difference. In hard chromium plating, several parameters are controlled in parallel: temperature, current density, the chemical composition of the bath and the position of the part. By adjusting these, you can control the thickness, structure and adhesion of the chrome layer.
In a well-balanced bath, a homogeneous layer is formed that can withstand extreme stresses. This is crucial for parts in industries such as engineering, paper mills and offshore. To avoid uneven surfaces, auxiliary cathodes and special suspensions are often used. They provide an even distribution of current over the entire part.
Chrome plating is often followed by operations such as grinding or polishing to achieve the right surface finish and tolerance. Careful finishing results in details with a hard surface and high precision in terms of dimensions and fit. These characteristics make hard chrome plating one of the most versatile surface treatments in the industry.
Capacity that makes a difference for hard chrome plating
At Lomma Hårdkrom, traditional craftsmanship is combined with modern technology, and at the center are our chrome baths. The core process of hard chrome plating takes place here, where every detail is treated with precision.
Our facility is equipped with several customized chrome baths that allow us to handle parts of different sizes and geometries. This gives us the flexibility to process everything from smaller machine parts to large piston rods, rollers or shafts for heavy production or heavy lifting.
- Long and narrow parts can be handled in our chrome baths up to 14 meters long, 320 mm in diameter and up to 10 tons.
- Medium sized parts fit our large chrome baths that accommodate parts up to 12 meters long and 800 mm in diameter, weighing up to 10 tons.
- Large and deep parts are processed in extra deep chrome baths, suitable for parts up to 2 meters long and 1500 mm in diameter.
The width of our chrome plating allows us to customize each hard chrome plating to the part being treated. Whether for new construction or renovation, our chrome plating ensures an even coating and long life for each part.
Contact us for hard chrome plating expertise
When you need hard chrome plating or repair of industrial parts, we offer capacity, precision and technical know-how like few others. At Lomma Hårdkrom, you get a partner who understands the demands of heavy industry. Do you want to know more about how our chrome baths can be used for your business? Welcome to contact us and our team of experts will help you find the best solution for your details.
