Brass
Brass is a versatile, binary alloy made from zinc and copper that carries multiple advantages — it's affordable, low-friction and highly machinable, and it also maintains good heat and electrical conductivity. You can utilize brass in various ways, but you can also add to its overall finish and properties with multiple plating processes.
Hard Chrome Specialists, an ISO-certified business, offers in-house services with quick turnaround times. We produce high-quality results by analyzing your requirements and forming optimal solutions.
Can Brass Be Chrome Plated?
It might seem unorthodox, but the answer to the above question is a resounding "yes."
We will begin the job by thoroughly cleaning the surface of the components with a solvent to remove dirt, debris and other kinds of grime. We might also buff the item with a polishing pad to ensure a clean surface free of imperfections, which the chrome will mirror. We'll then immerse it into a chrome bath, free of the voltage at first, to allow for warming and etching.
The electricity will begin to flow, and we'll carefully modulate the voltage to meet standard plating procedures. We'll grind down the finish post-process to eliminate any uneven buildups.
Benefits of Chrome Plating for Brass
Chrome plating on brass increases this malleable alloy's natural durability, giving it impact and corrosion resistance with a shiny, aesthetically pleasing finish. Chromium coats feature a reduced risk of de-lamination, meaning you can expect the plating to hold up over long periods. Chrome plating can also evenly coat irregularly shaped substrates, which allows for better results.
What Are Common Applications for Chrome Plating on Brass?
You'll often see hard chrome plating on brass when people use it for decorative purposes — like cabinet pulls and sink faucets — due to the appealing shine of chrome. However, you'll also see it on plumbing materials and hardware, such as pipes and fittings. Musical instruments are also possible candidates.
Can Brass be Nickel Plated?
Unlike chrome plating, which utilizes electricity as a driver, our nickel plating uses a chemical reduction. We submerge the item in an aqueous solution that contains an agent, which reduces the nickel ions and encourages deposition.
Overall, it produces a smoother coat when compared to electroplating. By using this method, we can also easily control the thickness level of the layer that we apply, giving you the exact result you'd prefer.
Benefits of Nickel Plated Brass
If you want superior corrosion resistance, then you need electroless nickel plating on your brass. The process produces a less-porous, all-enveloping barrier, meaning there will be fewer risks for environmental factors to leak in. You'll also receive a low coefficient of friction.
What Are Common Applications for Electroless Nickel Plating on Brass?
You'll often see nickel plating used on brass bullets, as many users prefer the unique look, improved corrosion resistance and quicker reloading. Unlike standard brass bullet casings, nickel-plated brass casings won't tarnish with repeated handling. Other applications include items that see increased environmental stress and frequent use, such as automotive parts, gears, heat sinks, screws, battery casings and much more.
To learn more about plating on brass, fill out our contact form or call us at 717-764-5171 to request an estimate.