Companies make big investments in the complex, industrial equipment that powers their businesses. Ensuring your hard-working machinery lasts as long as possible is key to maximizing your return on that investment. Learn how chrome plating can protect your valuable equipment and extend its life to keep your operation running smoothly.

3 Ways Chrome Plating Makes Industrial Equipment Last Longer

1. Prevents Rust

Many people are familiar with chrome as a shiny, decorative addition to cars or household fixtures like bath faucets. But this metal also has strong protective properties. It forms a hard surface layer called the chromium oxide barrier. When plated over iron alloys like steel, this layer prevents the chemical reaction with water and oxygen that causes rust and damages expensive equipment. 

It's important to apply chrome plating before your equipment shows signs of rust. Chrome will not adhere properly to rusted or dirty surfaces. Cleaning dirt, debris, oils, or corrosive agents from the equipment before having it plated will help ensure the plating adheres securely. 

2. Withstands Extreme Conditions

Chrome has a low friction coefficient, which means that as plated parts rub against each other, they produce less heat and abrasion, causing less wear and tear on your equipment and extending its longevity. Chrome plating can withstand a wide temperature range from -70 to 800 degrees. 

Chrome is resistant to thermal shock, so it can quickly transition from conditions of extreme heat to extreme cold without weakening. This makes it suitable for many manufacturing processes.

Chrome plating measures between 68 and 72 on the Rockwell "C" scale used to determine the hardness of materials, making it harder than most steels, which measure between 55 and 66. Even though it can soften at high temperatures, it still retains its resistance to abrasion and oxidation. 

3. Is Long Lasting

When applied correctly, chrome plating can last for many years. The electroplating process involves using an electric current to adhere the chrome to the equipment's surface at the molecular level. Proper surface preparation, including a reverse-current cleaning to remove metallic residues and films, will help ensure strong adhesion and increase the plating's durability. 

The electroplating process is done at a low temperature, so it will not damage the equipment's underlying surface or parts. Chrome can be applied to a wide range of metals, including stainless steel, copper, and brass. It's smooth, impervious surface makes it easy to clean and maintain your equipment, helping add even more years to its life span.

To extend the life of your industrial equipment, call the experts at Porter-Guertin. in Cincinnati, OH. They are the industry leaders in hard chrome plating. Utilizing the latest in cutting-edge technology, their experienced staff will help you maximize the performance and life span of your machinery. Call them today at (513) 241-7663 or visit them online to learn more.