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Metal finishing Q&As since 1989

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Hexavalent chromium density?

I have an 8620 steel part that is zinc plated (0.005-0.015 thick) and then dipped in an alkaline bath for a black chromate finish. Is there a way to determine how much by weight of hexavalent chromium is present in the black chromate finish. Due to regulation in Europe we need to specify the amount of hexavalent chromium by weight.

Dan smith
- Kentwood, Michigan,USA

If you need this information for Ford IMDS reporting, look on their system for a reference table of common finishes. Ford has already complied a list that you can use to help calculate this amount.

There is no test method that is universally accepted in the automotive industry for measuring the amount of hexavalent chrome in a plating. All of the test methods have drawbacks. Ford's favorite method is XRS, but this method is costly.

If you are stuck, try contacting one of the names listed at the end of whatever automotive spec you are trying to comply with.

Tim Neveau
Rochester Hills, Michigan

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