Chromium plating: functioning and industrial use
Chrome plating is a process of coating objects with a thin but durable layer of chrome. Its origin dates back to the early 20th century. It was then that the search for effective methods of protecting metals from corrosion while also improving their aesthetics began. This treatment protects a metal, but also gives it the desired, visually appealing gloss and smoothness.
The chrome plating process is used in such diverse fields as automotive, aviation, home appliance manufacturing, and even in the fashion and jewelry businesses. Chromium plating not only increases the corrosion and wear resistance of objects, but also enhances their aesthetic qualities.
Among chrome plating methods, galvanic chrome plating holds a particular position. It involves using electrochemical processes to apply a layer of chromium to metal objects. This method, compared to other techniques, offers unparalleled finish quality and the ability to control the coating’s thickness.

What is chrome plating?
It is a process of applying a thin layer of chromium to various materials, mainly metals including “stainless steel” (pictured above), to increase their resistance to corrosion, improve durability and give them an appealing appearance. This process involves submerging metallic components in a bath filled with a high-temperature chromium salt solution.
Main types of chrome plating
- Galvanic Chrome Plating: Uses an electrochemical process to apply a layer of chromium to a metallic surface. It is one of the most widely used chromium plating methods, offering high precision in controlling the thickness of an applied layer. It is widely used, for example, in the production of piston rods for SDK series pneumatic clamping actuators of our production, where chromium salts are deposited on carbon steel.
- Spray Chrome Plating: A method that allows coating large or irregularly shaped objects. This process involves spraying a solution containing chromium using specialized pistols. This technique is used where traditional methods may be ineffective.
Galvanic chrome plating process overview
- Surface Preparation: To ensure the best adhesion and coating quality, an object must be thoroughly cleansed of any dirt, grease, rust or old coatings.
- Electrolytic Bath: The cleansed object is dipped in an electrolytic solution containing chromium ions. The object is connected to a negative pole of the current source (it becomes a cathode), while the anodes are connected to a positive pole.
- Electrolysis: An electric current is passed through the solution, causing chromium ions to be reduced and deposited on the object’s surface. This creates a smooth, durable protective layer.
- Passivation: The final step is often passivation, which further increases the chrome-plated surface’s resistance to corrosion. It involves applying a thin layer of a chemical compound that reacts with the chrome and provides additional protection.
The technological process of chromium plating with a workpiece treatment at CPP "PREMA" S.A.
No. | Operation | Workstation | Work socket |
---|---|---|---|
1. | Lathing | TORNADO PF 4 | TORNADO PF |
2. | Boring, threading | 16K20 universal lathe | 16K20 |
3. | Milling | FN-20 milling machine | FN-20 |
4. | Grinding | E 450 UP-1000 grinder | E 450 UP |
5. | Polishing I | Polishing grinder | BBZ-60 |
6. | Chrome plating | Galvanizing station | GALWAN |
7. | Polishing II | Polishing grinder | BBZ-60 |
8. | Control | Quality Assurance Office | NJ |