When your company is selecting a coating, such as hard chrome plating, you shouldn't automatically default to what you've done in the past. Additionally, cost should not be the deciding factor, since the right coating can extend mold life and improve the accuracy and quality of your products. Below is a look at what you should consider when selecting between the most popular coatings.

What Problems Should the Coating Prevent?

Common molding problems include weld lines, or defects where multiple fronts meet, and sink marks, or depressions in the part caused by uneven cooling while it's in the mold. Other common issues include warping and air bubbles in the finished part. Defects are typically caused by either wear and tear or corrosion. Your first step is to determine the primary cause of your molding problems.

• Corrosion: For problems caused by rust due to moisture contact—due to leaks, condensation, etc.—hard chrome plating acts as an effective corrosion barrier. Meanwhile, electroless nickel is an excellent corrosion barrier for most mineral acids.
• Abrasive Wear: Abrasive wear, on the other hand, occurs on compression molds that use mineral or glass-filled materials, which scour the mold surface. Chromium plating, because it is harder than nickel and able to withstand high friction, is usually better protection against wear.

What Is the Environment?

Another concern is the environment in which the mold resides. For instance, hard chrome is ideal for dry and moderate environments. Electroless nickel, by contrast, thrives in more extreme temperatures and in environments of higher humidity. 

What Shape Is the Mold?

Finally, before selecting a coating, consider the shape of the mold. Nickel and chrome are among the most popular plating types because both can plate irregularly shaped molds evenly. 

If you seek hard chrome plating for your rubber molds, contact R. A. Heller Co., a trusted and venerable machine shop based in Cincinnati, OH. They have served businesses throughout the Tri-state area since 1946, providing reliable plating, precision grinding, and chrome plating repair. They offer fast turnaround times, responsive customer service, and exceptional workmanship. Learn more about them by visiting their website or call (513) 771-6100 to discuss your hard chrome plating needs.