Letter 36009

Electroplating-Chrome 3

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Dear all,

We are plating company that located at Malaysia.We're using hexavalent chrome. At this moment, we're facing a problem regarding the environmental issue. One of that, is application of Trivalent chrome. I believe most of the plating company around the world are involved and knew about this thing.

Main of our customer implemented ISO 14000, that's required them to do an efficient method of waste management.

So that, we are pleased to get to know more regarding this issue.

Please provide me a few information needed:-
1. What is Trivalent Chrome/Chrome 3?
2. What is the advantage and disadvantage of using Chrome 3?
3. Please let me know a plating company that have this kind of process?

I'm very appreciate if somebody answer this questions.

Thanks

MUHAMMAD RAZIF MANSOR
Plating shop - Johor Bahru,Johor,Malaysia

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Hi, Muhammad. Are we talking about hard chrome plating, decorative nickel-chrome plating, or application of a chromate conversion coating to zinc plated parts? Thanks.

Ted Mooney, P.E.
finishing.com
Brick, New Jersey

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Hi,

Ans 1: Simply speaking, Chrome 3 is an alternative of Chrome 6.
Trivalent chrome/chrome 3 is a less toxic material than that of hexavalent chrome.
Ans 2: advantage (as above)
Disadvantage: expensive (in Taiwan), may oxidize to chrome, not as good as Chrome 6 and no good shine color as Chrome 6.
Ans 3: as I know in Taiwan, most plating company are facing environmental issue and turn to Chrome 3 or even chrome free process. I believe in the near future on normal application, there will no more using Chrome 6.

Brian Chang
- Taiwan