A safer alternative to hard chrome
Hard chrome plating has long been used for its durability in industries like oil and gas and aerospace. But it relies on hexavalent chromium, a highly toxic chemical linked to serious health risks and strict regulation. Thermal-sprayed chrome carbide can often outperform hard chrome while being safer and more sustainable.
| Chrome carbide | Hard chrome plating | |
|---|---|---|
| Applied by | HVOF or HVAF thermal spray | Electroplating |
| Hardness | 1,000–1,200 HV | 800–1,000 HV |
| Hexavalent chromium | None | Required |
Properties
- Chromium carbide particles in a nickel-chromium binder (Cr₃C₂-NiCr). The binder adds corrosion and oxidation resistance.
- Oxidation resistance at high temperature, up to 1,600 °F (870 °C).
- Excellent wear and corrosion resistance in hot, oxidizing and corrosive environments.
- Can offer longer service life than hard chrome, reducing downtime and maintenance costs.
Refurbishing worn parts
For worn parts, we strip old coatings and refurbish the component, often for a fraction of the cost of a new replacement, with performance that meets or exceeds OEM standards. The coating is then ground and super finished in our own Allentown shop.
Read the full article: Chrome Carbide: An Alternative to Hard Chrome Plating.