The Benefits of PVD Coating on Electroplated Parts

INTRODUCTION

Chrome plating technology is an underappreciated marvel of materials science —a fascinating alchemy of chemistry and metallurgy that produces the most well-known metal surface finish available. Chrome plating or chrome PVD coating, which was introduced in the 1920s, quickly gained popularity in the auto industry, consumer products, and then in thehomewithfaucetsanddoorhardware.

WHAT’S UNIQUE ABOUT CHROME COATING?

Before we get into how PVD can help chrome plating, it's important to understandwhythiscoatingisunique.The first point to mention is that "chrome plating" is made up of two or three different metal layers, with only trace amounts of chromium present. The plating stack on most substrates, such as steel, zinc, and plastic, includes copper, nickel, and finally a top layer of chromium. When applied to brass, the copper is omitted, and the process begins with nickel and chromium.

A THIN BUT SIGNIFICANT LAYER OF CHROMIUM

Despite the fact that the chromium layer is thin, the contributions are substantial. As far as pure metals go, it's one of the hardest (1000HV), which, when built on top of a supporting structure of thick, moderately hard nickel (600HV), will increase toughness and durability even more. Chromium also has a strong naturally forming surface oxide layer that protects it from chemical attack and tarnishing, which is why chromium is used tomakestainlesssteelalloys"stainless."

CHROMIUM IN DECORATIVE COATINGS—PVD ON ELECTROPLATED PARTS

Regardless of the type of chromium deposit used, both are completely compatible with the wide range of decorative PVD coatings offered by Vapor Technologies (VaporTech®). Parts that have been chrome plated typically require no additional treatment and can be placed directly into a coating system for a new finish. Our coatings engineers are knowledgeable about surface finishing techniques other than PVD, such as electroplating, powder coating, anodizing, and mass finishing.