Trivalent Chrome Plating
Trivalent Chromium Plating | Eco-Friendly & Durable Finishes
In the electroplating industry, various surface treatment are used to enhance product competitiveness by modifying properties like conductivity, texture, and color. Among these, trivalent chromium plating stands out for its popularity and eco-conscious advantages, making it a top choice across multiple applications.
Hexavalent Chrome vs. Trivalent Chrome Plating
Hexavalent chromium plating, often referred to as the conventional chrome plating method, is widely used for both decorative and functional purposes. The process involves immersing substrates into a solution containing chromium trioxide (CrO3) and sulfuric acid (SO4). This plating technique offers excellent resistance to corrosion and wear, along with a visually appealing finish.
Hexavalent Chrome – Satin Tone
Hexavalent chromium plating has its disadvantages, however. This type of plating produces several byproducts which are considered hazardous waste, including lead chromates and barium sulfate. Hexavalent chromium itself is a hazardous substance and carcinogen and is heavily regulated by the EPA. In recent years, automotive OEMs such as Chrysler have made efforts to replace hexavalent chromium finishes with more eco-friendly finishes.
Trivalent chromium is another method of decorative chrome plating, and is considered the environmentally friendly alternative to hexavalent chromium, with many of the same characteristics; just like hexavalent chrome finishes, trivalent chrome finishes provide scratch and corrosion resistance and are available in a variety of color options. Trivalent chromium plating uses chromium sulfate or chromium chloride as its main ingredient, instead of chromium trioxide; making trivalent chromium less toxic than hexavalent chromium.
Trivalent Chrome – Dark Tone
Although the trivalent chromium plating process is more complex to manage and involves higher chemical costs compared to hexavalent chromium, its benefits make it a cost-competitive alternative to other finishing methods. The trivalent process consumes less energy, is more resilient to power interruptions, and offers greater operational flexibility. Additionally, its lower toxicity results in less stringent regulations, reducing hazardous waste and compliance-related expenses.
Hexavalent chrome plating remains a fundamental part of the surface finishing industry due to its affordability and widespread availability. Currently, only a limited number of surface finishers in the United States are equipped to produce trivalent chrome finishes. MacDermid Enthone, a leading innovator in finishing solutions, identifies just ten U.S. companies qualified to produce their trivalent chrome Fashion Finishes®, with ECF being one of them. Nevertheless, as regulations on hazardous materials become stricter in the U.S. and EU, the demand for eco-friendly alternatives like trivalent chrome is steadily increasing.
Cheeyuen | Your Reliable Tri Chrome Plating Supplier
Application of Tri Chrome Plating for Plastic Parts
Decorative, Efficient, Sustainable
Trivalent Chrome Colors
Why Choose Our Tri-Chrome Plating?
Trivalent chrome plating is an ideal choice for manufacturers seeking to balance performance, safety, aesthetics, and environmental responsibility. When combined with additional protective coatings or surface treatments, trivalent chrome can deliver exceptional durability even in demanding environments. Overall, trivalent chrome plating is a forward-looking solution that supports sustainable practices without compromising quality or longevity.
At Cheeyuen, we offer advanced plating solutions to ensure top-quality and compliance in your products. Contact us today to explore our innovative plating technologies!
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Trivalent Chromium Plating Process over Plastic
Typically, trivalent chromium electroplating solutions rely upon either chloride or sulfate-based electrolytes. The process of trivalent chromium electroplating usually requires several steps between chemical treatment and electroplating process. Variations exist in production technologies.Usually,our production line must first thoroughly clean a work piece to remove debris and grease. Depending upon the composition of the part,we’ll apply one or more pretreatments. For instance,we first electroplate parts with nickel prior to applying decorative chromium plating.
What Is The Difference Between Trivalent Chrome And Hexavalent Chrome?
Trivalent plating produces at least five percent fewer rejects than hexavalent plating. You’ll save money on scrap metal and can plate more parts in the trivalent bath, which will increase production. Trivalent plating also boasts: Fewer toxic fumes than hexavalent plating.
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Advantages And Disadvantages Of Trivalent Chromium Plating
It is a decorative chrome plating, which can provide scratch and corrosion resistance in various color options. Trivalent chrome is considered the eco-friendly alternative to hexavalent chromium.
Next, Let’s take a closer look at this process to understand its benefits and drawbacks.Click here to view.