In the manufacturing industry, surface finishing is a vital process. The procedure adds aesthetics and functionality to a workpiece. Whereby products obtain protection against abrasion and corrosion. Among various finishes, chromate coatings possess unique qualities. Such properties help improve the lifespan and productivity of a workpiece. we offer everything you need to know about chromate finish. Our team uses the procedure to perfect your project according to your desire. we utilize its principles and design considerations to meet the required demand. Below is a further guide about the surface finish.

How To Define Chromate Conversion Coatings?

Chromate dissolves in an aqueous solution forming a gel applied on metal parts. Metals like alloy get coated, obtaining aesthetic and protection. Also, chromate preserves electrical conductivity and serves as a base in painting.

Process of Chromate Conversion Coatings

There are two kinds of chromate conversion processes. These are the type 1 and type 2 chromate processes. Below is a broader explanation of the procedure.

Type 1 Chromate Process

Cleaning the Metal Product

Degreasing eliminates impurities like oxides, oils, grease, and metal contaminants. Then, rinse and dry the metal part. By degreasing, chemical conversion coats stick better, remaining even.

Product Etching

Metal parts get etched if the chemical conversion coatings remain unwanted. By etching, the parts get covered, offering precision during coating. Again, rinse, then dry the workpiece.

Deoxidizing

During the Chromate conversion process, eliminating oxygen is vital. The gas is a contaminant that hinders the process. We remove the oxygen by putting the workpiece under the deoxidization process. Then, rinse and dry the metal part to remove the deoxidizing agent.

Apply the Coat

Dip the workpiece in a chemical bath containing Alodine. The duration of immersion depends on the kind of thickness one desires. Also, a spray or brush applies the part with Alodine.

Final Wash

Once applying the workpiece is complete, rinse the product with water. In doing so, the excessive coatings get washed away. Later, rinse with warm water to obtain the perfect finish. Then, allow the workpiece to dry.

Type 2 Chromate Process

The process involves two kinds of variations. One is alkaline, and the other one is a clean acid process. We use the steps below in each procedure.

Alkaline Cleaning Process

Chromate Conversion Coatings

Clean the workpiece by using an alkaline solution

Rinse off the excess solution using water

Remove the oxygen contaminant by deoxidizing

Then rinse with adequate water

Finally, apply the chromate conversion coatings type 2

Acid Cleaning Process

Clean the workpiece using an acid solution

Rinse off the excess solution using water

Finally, apply the chromate conversion coatings type 2

What Are The Types of Chromate Conversion Coatings?

Type 1

Type 1 contains a chemical compound called hexavalent chromium. The compound produces a gold, brown, or clear film. But then, hexavalent chromium is a dangerous chemical known to be carcinogenic. So, its application is very harmful to the workers during the application process. Some industries permit its use but under proper ventilation and eradication method.

Type 2

Unlike type1, type 2 offers a safer profile. The type contains trivalent chromium, zirconium, or titanium. Thus, it is a hex-free chrome. Below are the advantages that type 2 has over type 1

It occurs under lower temperatures than type 1

It offers a safer non-harmful profile

Its application is faster, easier, and straightforward.

What Are The Characteristics of Chromate Coatings?

Toxicity

Depending on the kind of chromate coating, the level of toxicity differs. Type 1 contains highly toxic hex chrome. As for the type, it’s hex-free chrome, which isn’t toxic. We handle both types with care regardless of the toxicity levels.

Application Duration

It only takes a few minutes during the application process. With such a short duration, the procedure is fast and reliable. All this depends on the method used.

Thin Film

The formed coat is unique compared to other kinds of coating. A very thin film of 0.5 to 4 microns makes chromate coatings distinct.

Conductive Surface

Other than making metal corrosion-resistant, chromate coatings enable metal conductivity. Also, parts become useful in paints and bases for priming,

Applications of Chromate Conversion Coatings

Military Industry

Parts used in the making for military purposes must be corrosion resistant. Submarines submerge into the salty sea, which highly corrodes parts. Thereby, protecting the parts is key to saving on cost and efficiency.

Aerospace Industry

Chromate conversion coatings are essential as they protect aluminum alloys in the aerospace industry. Some parts include; landing gear, aircraft hulls, and shock absorbers. They are highly exposed to atmospheric gases that corrupt them. Chromate coating prevents corrosion from happening.

CNC Machining Parts

Using chromate, we treat CNC machining parts accordingly. The preservation from corrosion boosts the workpiece lifespan. Also, there is no alteration of dimensional properties of metal parts.

Injection Molding Parts

Many injection molding parts have used chrome-plate finishing such as our Automobile exterior trim, decoration, and more. After using this process, you can make your product’s appearance better to win more customers.

In conclusion, chromate conversion coatings offer remarkable results compared to other surface finishes. we use the coating to boost productivity and acquire quality products. As mentioned, the process protects the metal by coating it and offers other applications. Kindly consider us when dealing with chromate conversion coating for your projects.