CHROME
Plasman’s chrome lines provide flexible options regardless of part size. With endless color options, custom applications, textures, and sustainable process developments, we are continuing to expand our capabilities and provide our customers with the ultimate flexibility for their products. It is unsurprising that our expertise is highly sought after by automotive OEM’s.
Precision, expertise, and dedication are at the core of Plasman’s chrome plating process. Our electroplating application and process has been refined for over 45 years. We are known for our creative concepts and adaptable solutions across multiple industries, and we are just getting started.
Flexible & Aesthetic
Trivalent and hexavalent chrome plating provides endless possibilities to give you the superior high-quality look and feel to elevate your product above the rest.
- Low Gloss Finish: This trivalent finish provides a smooth, non-reflective surface ideal for understated elegance.
- Satin Finish: Offers a soft sheen, combining elegance with practicality.
- Bright Finish: Delivers a high-gloss, mirror-like appearance, perfect for decorative applications.
- Platinum Finish: Provides a sleek and modern aesthetic with a cool-toned bright chrome finish.
Endless color options, including:
- Standard Chrome: Classic silver hue, known for its timeless appeal.
- Black Chrome: A darker, sophisticated alternative for a modern look.
- Colored Variants: Custom colors can be achieved through dyeing processes, offering flexibility in design.
Features of Trivalent Chrome Plating
From design to delivery, we make shared visions a reality.
The Etching Process
The etching process is a critical step in both hexavalent and trivalent chrome plating that prepares the substrate for coating. We provide hexavalent etching with the ability to do either finish after the etch. Here’s a detailed look at the etching process:
The substrate is thoroughly cleaned to remove any contaminants such as oils, dirt, and oxides. This ensures proper adhesion of the chromium layer.
Hexavalent Chromium Etching:
The substrate is immersed in an acidic solution containing hexavalent chromium. This creates a rough, micro-etched surface, enhancing the mechanical bond and providing excellent adhesion between the substrate and subsequent plating layers.
After etching, the substrate is thoroughly rinsed to remove any residual etching solution. This step is crucial to prevent contaminating subsequent plating baths.
The etched and rinsed substrate may undergo an activation step, involving a brief dip in a mildly acidic solution to ensure the surface is fully prepared for the metal deposition.