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Hard Chrome Plating

Hard Chrome Plating of Metal Components

Hard chrome plating is an electrolytic process in which a layer of hard chrome is deposited onto a metal surface. It is used when increased surface hardness and resistance are required, when wear needs to be reduced, or when a worn component needs to be restored to the required dimension.

Cromon has specialized in hard chrome plating since 1991, with the possibility of final machining according to the requirements of each specific component.

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Basic Process

How Hard Chrome Plating Works

01

Surface Preparation

Before chrome plating, the component surface is prepared for the application of the chrome layer. Proper preparation is one of the key prerequisites for achieving a high-quality final result.

02

Electrolytic Chrome Plating

The component is immersed in a bath containing a chromium solution. Under the influence of electrical current, chromium is deposited onto the prepared surface.

The duration of the process depends on the required coating thickness and the characteristics of the component — from several minutes or hours to many hours for more demanding and thicker deposits.

03

Final Machining

After chrome plating, the component is rinsed and dried, followed by final mechanical machining when required. This may include external or internal grinding and polishing to achieve the required dimension and desired surface roughness.

Hard Chrome Applications

Where Is Hard Chrome Used?

Hard chrome is applied to functional metal components across many industries where wear resistance, reliability, and long service life are important.

Hydraulic and Pneumatic Cylinders

Piston rods and cylinder pistons exposed to sliding, pressure, and wear.

Guides and Linear Components

Guides, sliding tracks, and other components where smooth movement and a stable working surface are important.

Shafts, Spindles and Fits

Shafts, spindles, bearing seats, and sealing or oil-seal surfaces.

Molds and Tooling Components

Molds, dies, punches, blades, and other tools exposed to repeated mechanical loads.

Industrial Rollers

Rollers for printing, paper, steel, and other industrial applications.

Components Exposed to Abrasion and Corrosion

Functional surfaces operating under increased wear, moisture, or other aggressive environmental influences.

Benefits of Hard Chrome Plating

What Does Hard Chrome Plating Provide?

Hard chrome improves the operating properties of a surface, while one of its greatest benefits is the ability to restore worn components.

Final machining of a metal component on a machine
900–1100 HV typical coating hardness

Key Benefit

Excellent Wear Resistance and the Ability to Restore Components

Hard chrome is particularly suitable for sliding, rotating, and abrasively loaded components and can significantly extend their service life.

One of its greatest advantages is the ability to restore worn components. A worn surface can be built up with chrome and then finished to restore the required dimension.

A properly restored surface can provide very good operating properties and, in some applications, even better performance than the original surface.

Restoration of Worn Components

Restoring the functional surface to the required dimension.

Longer Service Life

Continued use of a valuable existing component.

Additional Benefits

Four Properties for Reliable Surface Performance.

High Surface Hardness

Coating hardness typically ranges from approximately 900–1100 HV, roughly corresponding to around 65–70 HRC. This contributes to good resistance to scratching and abrasive wear.

Improved Corrosion Resistance

The chrome layer protects the base material from oxidation and many chemical influences. It is particularly useful for components operating in humid and demanding environments.

Good Sliding Properties

Hard chrome can reduce friction, heat generation, and wear in properly designed assemblies. This is why it is frequently used on piston rods, guides, shafts, and other functional surfaces.

High Dimensional Accuracy

The coating thickness can be controlled according to the machining requirements. Chrome plating combined with subsequent grinding makes it possible to achieve precise final dimensions and the required surface roughness.

Need Hard Chrome Plating?

Send Us the Component Details.

Send us a photo, drawing, or basic information about the component so we can assess the available processing options.

Send an Inquiry Call +385 98 168 6736

Contact us for hard chrome plating services.

Cromon

Cromon d.o.o. from Ivanec specializes in hard chrome plating and the restoration and protection of functional metal surfaces.

Contact +385 42 494 637 E-mail
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