Electroplated hard chrome: usually plated directly onto the substrate without an intermediate layer. Decorative Chrome Plating: Usually plated on an intermediate layer such as nickel or copper to enhance gloss and corrosion resistance.
The main differences between hard chrome plating and decorative chrome plating are as follows:
Author: Robby
1. Purpose
Electroplated hard chrome: Mainly used to improve wear resistance, corrosion resistance and hardness, commonly found in industrial parts.
Decorative chrome plating: Mainly used to enhance the appearance and provide a bright, corrosion-resistant surface, commonly used in automotive parts and household items.
2. Plating thickness
Electroplated hard chrome: thicker plating, usually between 2.5 and 500 microns.
Decorative Chrome Plating: Thin layer, usually between 0.25 and 2 microns.
3. Process
Electroplated hard chrome: usually plated directly onto the substrate without an intermediate layer.
Decorative Chrome Plating: Usually plated on an intermediate layer such as nickel or copper to enhance gloss and corrosion resistance.
4. Performance
Electroplated hard chrome: High hardness, high abrasion and corrosion resistance.
Electroplated decorative chrome: Bright appearance, better corrosion resistance, but lower hardness and wear resistance.
5. Application areas
Electroplated hard chrome: Used for hydraulic cylinders, moulds, shafts and other industrial parts.
Electroplated decorative chrome: used for automotive decorative parts, home appliances, sanitary equipment, etc.
6. Cost
Electroplated hard chrome: Higher cost due to thick layer and complicated process.
Decorative chrome plating: lower cost, because of the thin layer and simple process.
Summary
Electroplated hard chrome focuses on functionality, while electroplated decorative chrome focuses on appearance, with significant differences in thickness, process, performance and application.