Hard Chrome

A dual-purpose finish for both aesthetic brilliance and industrial-grade durability.

From sleek decorative parts to ultra-tough industrial components, chrome plating delivers performance and protection.

What Is Chrome Plating?

Chrome plating involves applying a thin layer of chromium to metal surfaces using an electroplating process. It serves two main purposes: enhancing visual appeal (decorative chrome) and boosting performance (hard chrome). Known for its high reflectivity, corrosion resistance, and hardness, chrome is used across automotive, aerospace, furniture, tooling, and industrial sectors.

Zinc-Nickel Alloy Plating

Zinc-Nickel is an advanced coating that enhances corrosion resistance far beyond standard zinc. Composed of 10–15% nickel, this alloy provides three to four times the protection of traditional zinc plating in salt spray tests.

Decorative Chrome

Bright and smooth reflective surface
Enhanced aesthetics — sleek, polished look
Corrosion resistance — protects base metal
Durability and wear resistance
Versatility — applicable on steel, brass, aluminum, and various alloys

Hexavalent vs Trivalent Chrome

Aspect	Hexavalent Chrome	Trivalent Chrome
Environmental Impact	Higher environmental and health risks	More environmentally friendly
Health & Safety	Requires strict safety protocols	Safer for workers and more sustainable
Regulatory Compliance	Heavily regulated	Aligns with modern environmental standards
Corrosion Resistance	Excellent	Comparable in many applications

Hard Chrome (Industrial Chrome)

Unlike decorative chrome, hard chrome is used for its functional properties rather than appearance. It’s applied in thicker layers and commonly used in machinery, tools, hydraulic rods, and heavy-duty components that require enhanced surface strength.

Properties:

Extreme hardness — highly resistant to wear and abrasion
Excellent corrosion resistance — ideal for harsh conditions
Surface finish — matte or semi-bright; not intended for shine
Thickness — thick deposits allow dimensional restoration of worn parts

Technical Information

Parameter	Decorative Chrome	Hard Chrome
Primary Use	Aesthetic enhancement	Industrial performance
Appearance	Bright, reflective, smooth	Matte or semi-bright
Hardness	Moderate	Very high (up to 1000+ HV)
Layer Thickness	Thin (0.002”–0.005”)	Thick (up to 0.020” or more)
Substrates	Steel, aluminum, brass, alloys	Steel, cast iron, various industrial metals
Plating Types	Hexavalent or Trivalent Chrome	Hard Chrome (typically hexavalent-based)
Compliance	Trivalent preferred for RoHS/REACH compliance	Subject to industry-specific standards

Why Choose Ecoplating for Chrome Plating?

Whether you’re designing a high-end consumer product or restoring high-wear industrial tools, Ecoplating offers full-service chrome plating solutions tailored to your needs.

We provide both decorative and hard chrome finishes using advanced plating techniques, while ensuring compliance with environmental and safety regulations.

Primary Use

Aesthetic enhancement

Appearance

Bright, reflective, smooth

Hardness

Moderate

Layer Thickness

Thin (0.002”–0.005”)

Substrates

Steel, aluminum, brass, alloys

Plating Types

Hexavalent or Trivalent Chrome

Compliance

Trivalent preferred for RoHS/REACH compliance

Need Help?

If you can’t find what you need or have specific requirements, just reach out.

Many options can be customized, and we’re happy to help you find the best fit.