Hard chrome
Hard chrome is a technical chrome coating with exceptional hardness and wear resistance. Unlike decorative chrome finishes, the focus here is on functional performance: extending service life, improving corrosion resistance, and optimizing friction behavior.
How Does the Process Work?
Hard chrome is applied via electroplating: a galvanic technique in which metal is deposited on the component by means of an electric current.
- The component is immersed in a salt solution (electrolyte).
- An external power source triggers a reaction in which chromium ions are deposited on the component (the cathode).
- This creates a uniform, hard, and adhesive chrome layer.
This process allows layer thicknesses of 30 to 2000 μm to be achieved, depending on the application.
Advantages
Extremely hard: up to 1,100 Vickers
Possibility of dimensional accuracy and high-gloss finish
Highly wear-resistant and corrosion-resistant
Low friction coefficient
Typical applications
- Hydraulic cylinders and rods
- Chrome-plated rollers in the paper, textile, or food industry
- Homogenizer plungers
- Sleeves and tubes
- Reconditioning of worn surfaces
Our capacity
- Treatment of parts up to Ø 1000 mm and length 6000 mm
- Complete finishing in our own workshop: grinding, polishing, honing, lapping…
- Extensive experience with complex shapes and tolerance requirements
Looking for a durable, hard chrome coating?
We are happy to advise you on the appropriate layer thickness, finish, or combination with underlayers for your application.
