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Q&As since 1989


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Still wondering how to set up home chrome finishing

I got into this website because the header said "How to set up home chrome finishing" or such. I read the whole thing and still don't know how to set up home chrome finishing. I build a sand rail that needs some small home machined parts chromed. I contacted a plater and for a small shaft 1/2" x 4" he wanted 40 to 50 bucks to chrome it. At that rate I would have to mortgage the house to chrome all the machined parts I have made for the rail. I just want to shiny up the rail and prevent my new parts from rusting without providing, personally, some dude with a new Porsche and a Rolex [affil links].

John Nelson
Hobbyist - Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
2006

Please start with our FAQ "Chrome Plating Tutorial". However, just because you want to do something doesn't make it practical, John. Why not get a job as a helper in that shop? Then you could plate all your own stuff at no cost, and learn enough to take over his business or go out on your own. I wouldn't count on the Porsche and Rolex though.

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First of two simultaneous responses --

Nowadays, there is no such thing as "home-chrome-plating" or "do-it-yourself chrome kit" available. All developed and some emergent countries have adopted stringent regulations for the use of chemicals. Buying, storing, handling and dispssing of very toxic substances is what it's all about in chrome plating. And it's what makes it expensive. You may want to shop around a bit more.

Guillermo Marrufo
Monterrey, NL, Mexico
2006

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Second of two simultaneous responses --

Doing volume will typically bring down the per piece cost, maybe you can get a quote for doing all of the items at once?

Sheldon Taylor
supply chain electronics
Wake Forest, North Carolina
2006

The other replies are correct. However, regarding price quoted you, it may be a minimum lot charge. If you are going to have a number of parts, get a price for the lot, not individually. Also, depending on function, you might want to look at zinc plating. The minimum lot price may be the same but if you have more than the minimum it may be substantially lower.

Gene Packman
process supplier - Great Neck, New York
2006