verchromen

Verchromen is the electroplating process of applying a chromium layer to a metal surface. The chromium coating improves appearance, corrosion resistance, hardness, and wear resistance, and provides a bright, reflective finish commonly associated with chrome.

The process is widely used on automotive trim, plumbing fixtures, tools, industrial machinery, and consumer hardware. It is also used on aluminum and steel components to enhance surface properties without altering the part's function.

In a typical electroplating sequence, the substrate is thoroughly cleaned and activated, then a strike layer of copper and a nickel layer are deposited to promote adhesion. Chromium is then deposited from either hexavalent chromium baths (historically common) or trivalent chromium baths (increasingly used for environmental reasons). The Cr(VI) baths are effective and fast but pose health and environmental risks and are subject to strict regulation.

Decorative chrome coatings are thin, generally designed to provide a bright finish and short-term corrosion protection; hard chrome finishes are thicker and intended to improve wear resistance and fatigue life on functional parts.

Common substrate materials include steel, stainless steel, aluminum, and zinc die-cast alloys. Proper pretreatment and adhesion layers, such as copper and nickel strike layers, are essential for coating integrity. Environmental and occupational safety regulations influence process choice, waste treatment, and the availability of Cr(VI) baths, driving demand for trivalent chromium plating and alternative surface finishes.

Due to its distinctive appearance and properties, verchromen remains a standard finishing step in many industries, balancing cosmetic appeal with functional performance when designed and controlled properly.