Aloha, fun & authoritative answers -- no cost, no passwords, no popups
(as an eBay Partner & Amazon Affiliate we earn from qualifying purchases)

Metal finishing Q&As since 1989

-----

Mixing the chrome tank

Hi,

We have a decorative chrome (hexavalent chromium with catalyst) and We mix the bath solution in order to maintain a homogeneous bath temperature but while doing this barium sulphate and the sludge coming from the anodes ,which are already settled down, also mix through the solution. Does this affect anything?

Thanks,

Sevim Topaloglu
- Izmir, Turkey
2002

2002

While your chrome bath requires mixing or agitation to prevent temperature stratification, it may also require mixing for catalyst regulation.

While a 'straight sulphate', 'conventional' chromic-sulfuric bath requires a 100:1 ratio of chromate to sulphate, the 'mixed catalyst', 'self regulating' baths use a partially soluble fluosilicate catalyst which self-regulates by settling out when too much is added, and going back into solution when needed. These baths require periodic mixing so the fluosilicate precipitate can redissolve when it is needed.

If this is the bath you are using, stirring or hoeing is indispensable--you are supposed to stir up the sludge.

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey

(No "dead threads" here! If this page isn't currently on the Hotline your Q, A, or Comment will restore it)

Q, A, or Comment on THIS thread -or- Start a NEW Thread

Disclaimer: It's not possible to fully diagnose a finishing problem or the hazards of an operation via these pages. All information presented is for general reference and does not represent a professional opinion nor the policy of an author's employer. The internet is largely anonymous & unvetted; some names may be fictitious and some recommendations might be harmful.

If you are seeking a product or service related to metal finishing, please check these Directories: