Metal finishing Q&As since 1989
-----
De-embrittlement Chrome Microcracking
Microcracking of Chrome plating and de-embrittlement
Does anyone know of the relationship and solution of possible hydrogen absorption and surface cracking.
Does standard de-embrittlement heat treatment work with low density microcracking.
Also with Cr110 plating solutions has anyone had any experience with the tensile notch test being applied to such Vats
Any information would be very much appreciated.
Bernard Irving- United Kingdom
2001
A. Hi Bernard.
Micro cracks it's what we like to have in a chrome deposit. This cracks is better to binding oil when you use hardchrome for cylinders etc and it also a very good corrosion protection because microcracks is a bigger anodic surface. Microcracks in a deposit have a higher anodic protection than macrocracks. From a Sargent's Chrome solution or a high speed chrome solution you can eliminate macrocracks if you use a low sulfuric acid and high chrome and it's also depends which current density you use. Macrocracks will also arise from parts which have a higher Rockwell C over 50. It's also important to shotpeening and bake with 135 °C at least for 2 hour before and after plating. A bad grinding can also give macrocracks.
Regards
Anders Sundman
4th Generation Surface Engineering
Consultant - Arvika,
Sweden
Q, A, or Comment on THIS thread -or- Start a NEW Thread