Chrome plating and hard chrome plating are two different types of surface treatments that involve applying a layer of chrome onto a metal substrate. While they may sound similar, there are some key differences between the two.

Chrome plating, also known as decorative chrome plating, is a thinner layer of chrome that is typically applied for aesthetic purposes, such as adding a shiny or reflective surface to a product. It is not as hard as hard chrome plating and is not as resistant to wear, corrosion, or other forms of damage. Chrome plating is often used in industries such as automotive and consumer products.

Hard chrome plating, on the other hand, is a thicker and more durable layer of chrome that is applied for functional purposes, such as increasing wear resistance, improving corrosion resistance, or enhancing the performance of a product. Hard chrome plating is much harder and more wear-resistant than decorative chrome plating, and can provide a range of benefits, including increased durability, improved surface finish, enhanced grip, heat resistance, and more.

Chrome plating vs. hard chrome plating on rolls difference in application.

While both chrome plating and hard chrome plating involve applying a layer of chrome onto a metal substrate, they are used for different purposes and provide different levels of durability and resistance to wear and corrosion.

The application of chrome plating and hard chrome plating on rolls can differ depending on the specific requirements of the application. Here are some of the key differences:

Thickness: Hard chrome plating is typically thicker than decorative chrome plating. When applied to rolls, hard chrome plating can range from 0.025mm to 0.25mm, whereas decorative chrome plating is typically much thinner, around 0.005mm to 0.025mm.

Purpose: Hard chrome plating is typically used on rolls for functional purposes, such as improving wear resistance and reducing friction. Decorative chrome plating, on the other hand, is usually used for aesthetic purposes, such as adding a shiny or reflective surface to the roll.

Surface preparation: The surface of the roll must be properly prepared before applying hard chrome plating to ensure proper adhesion and uniform thickness. This typically involves cleaning, stripping any existing coatings, and sometimes applying a layer of nickel plating as an intermediate layer. Decorative chrome plating may not require as extensive of a surface preparation process.

Plating process: The plating process for hard chrome plating is different than decorative chrome plating. Hard chrome plating involves a more complex process that uses a higher voltage and lower amperage to achieve the desired thickness and surface finish. Decorative chrome plating, on the other hand, typically uses a lower voltage and higher amperage.

Overall, the application of chrome plating and hard chrome plating on rolls can differ in terms of thickness, purpose, surface preparation, and plating process. Hard chrome plating is typically used for functional purposes and requires more extensive preparation and plating processes than decorative chrome plating.