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Tests for chromate conversion coating quality

We do chromating of aluminum in our plant. Occasionally questions arise as to the quality of our chromate process. My question is since the chromate film becomes hydrophobic when it dries, of what benefit is a water break test? Also, what is a powder test for chromate quality?

Anthony R Fragala
RADAR mfg - Andover, Massachusetts
2004

First of two simultaneous responses -- 2004

Hi Anthony,

I think the water-break test to which you refer is applicable only after the parts have gone through the cleaning steps of your operation. Checking for a water-break-free surface on a dried, chromated part really has no meaning.

The quality of the chromate conversion coating can be examined through accelerated corrosion testing.

George Gorecki
- Naperville, Illinois

Second of two simultaneous responses --

ABSOLUTELY NO BENEFIT WHATSOEVER!

B.DONABEDIAN
- ARLINGTON, Massachusetts
2004

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