In the chromium plating process, the level of the current is one of the most important parameters in determining the quality of the plated layer. The level of the current affects the deposition rate, deposition uniformity, gloss, hardness and adhesion of the coating in many ways.
1. Deposition rate: The higher the current, the faster the electrolysis proceeds per unit time, and the higher the deposition rate of the coating. However, too high a current may result in too rapid a deposition of the layer, causing uneven roughness.
2. Plating uniformity: The proper current allows for uniform deposition of the plating over the entire surface of the workpiece. Too low a current may result in slow deposition, leaving some areas inadequately coated; too high a current may produce sintering or over-partitioning, resulting in uneven plating. As a side note, there are more factors affecting the uniformity of the coating than just the current level, but also the decorative chromium additives used.
3. Gloss: The gloss of the plated layer of the chromium plating process is an important indicator in decorative chromium plating. Reasonable current density helps to produce a glossy plating. If the current is too small or too large, it may cause the surface of the plated layer is rough or poor gloss.
4. Hardness: Especially in hard chromium plating, the amount of current directly affects the hardness of the coating. Generally speaking, a moderate current produces a hard coating.
5. Adhesion: The current level also affects the bonding strength between the coating and the substrate. Too much current may cause excessive stress between the plating and the substrate, which may affect the adhesion of the plating.
Depending on the application, the appropriate current requirements will vary. Decorative chromium plating may require lower current densities to ensure the appearance of the coating, while hard chromium plating may require higher current densities to ensure the mechanical properties of the coating.
In conclusion, the control of the current during the chromium plating process is crucial and must be optimally set according to the specific plating requirements, shape and size of the workpiece, as well as the addition of Bigely decorative chromium additive Cr-9 to the plating solution, in order to achieve the desired plating effect. In practice, this often requires constant adjustment and optimization by experienced Bigely technicians according to the actual situation.
If you are interested in our products, please feel free to contact us.
