Letter 24093

The inherent danger of not heat treating chromed parts that operate under severe stress [Australia] 

+++

I am currently modifying a vehicle for show and drive purposes and wish to chrome the rear differential drive shafts and accompanying components including coil springs (Jaguar). I have been informed that once chromed, the parts require heat treatment to eliminate hydrogen embrittlement. Does this procees need to be done shortly afterwards or can it be done some time subsequent? I don't want to get it done and then suffer a Catastrophic suspension failure as the plater did not understand the process. How is the heat process undertaken?

Mark TAYLOR
panel beater - Brisbane, Q'ld, Australia

Dear Mark,

The hydrogen embrittlement you speak of, does not , in all truthfullness, represent a threat to your endeavours. In my twenty six years of electroplating and hot rodding experience, I have not seen or heard of one incidence of this.Ihave chromed coiland leaf springs,fifty year old I beam axles ,whole jag diffs and suspensions for drag cars. Never a failure, heard, seen or rumoured! What DOES cross my mind through experience, is, "HOW LONG BEFORE THIS LOT ENDS UP WRAPPED AROUND A POLE" ! And theres been a whole lot more of those,believe me. A word of advice.Insist on duplex nickle chrome. Less chance of peeling or rusting.

Mark Hunter
brightwork - N.S.W., Australia

I want to answer or follow-up on this subject publicly (in non-commercial fashion).

 

My company is a supporting advertiser at finishing.com and we want the contact information to reach the inquirer privately.

 

I want to post a new question or inquiry of my own on a different subject.