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Q&As since 1989


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How durable can Chrome/Steel electroplated ABS get ?

2005

Hi, I just noticed that the pull out faucet in my kitchen is probably
stainless plated on ABS. It seems very tough, but I have in mind a
very tough application.

I'd like to find the toughest example of this type of plating
(described here I think http://www.borough.co.uk/plating.htm) on
something readily available (inexpensive consumer items or samples)
such that I can bang on them with a hammer and other abuses to see
just how tough it actually is.

Alternatively, I have some ABS parts (roughly 4x7") that I could have
plated in this same process. Any quick,inexpensive shops for this type
of work ?

Thanks,

L. Smith
synap - arlington, Ma USA

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Chrome plated exterior car parts are probably an example of the most durable chrome plated plastic parts: Grills, headlamp surrounds, taillight bezels, etc.

Some nameplates on computers, kitchen products, etc. are real chrome plated plastic, too, but it's hard to know what is real chrome plated ABS and what isn't.

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey
2005