“Whitewash” Again
Question: I have a small chrome plating shop. I have problems when plating larger parts, such as bumpers.
Question:
I have a small chrome plating shop. I have problems when plating larger parts, such as bumpers. The center areas come out with a gray haze or a “whitewash” appearance. I do not have this problem when I plate smaller racked parts. Can you help me solve this problem? J. B.
Answer:
This is a common problem and can be caused by a number of different things. Since you mention that this problem only seems to happen when plating large pieces, I would investigate whether you have the proper current density and temperature for your plating bath. Placing a large piece into the plating tank will change the current density and the temperature of the bath and may be causing the problem.
There are two excellent papers available on this subject. They can be found on www.pfonline.com/plate. In the search box type in whitewash and you will find the papers listed.
Related Content
-
How to Maximize Nickel Plating Performance
The advantages of boric acid-free nickel plating include allowing manufacturers who utilize nickel plating to keep up the ever-changing regulatory policies and support sustainability efforts.
-
How to Choose the Right Coating for Fasteners
Choosing the proper coating for fasteners can help with performance by improving durability and lifespan. In this helpful Ask the Expert article, Mark Schario of Columbia Chemical offers advice for choosing the right fastener coatings.
-
Products Finishing Reveals 2023 Qualifying Top Shops
Each year PF conducts its Top Shops Benchmarking Survey, offering shops a tool to better understand their overall performance in the industry. The program also recognizes shops that meet a set of criteria to qualify as Top Shops.
