Getting Back to Basics in Hard Chromium Plating

Chromium deposition is usually described in one of two ways, either it is decorative or it is hard. Seemingly these terms describe different kinds of chromium deposits with totally different properties. This is not true at all. As a matter of fact, these two applications can be and frequently are produced from identical solutions despite quite different performance requirements. Decorative chromium is usually deposited in thicknesses of less than 10 millionths and is greatly desired for its pleasing, bright, blue-white cast and its hard scratch resistant surface. Decorative chromium is almost always deposited over a nickel plated surface and serves to prevent tarnishing or staining of the yellowish nickel deposit. Together nickel and chromium deposits can be used in different combinations to give excellent corrosion protection.