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This paper will discuss recent research work on the development of a functional trivalent chromium plating process from a single, simple-to-control trivalent-based electrolyte to replace hexavalent chromium plating. Hexavalent chromium plating has been used for many years to provide hard, durable coatings with excellent wear and corrosion resistance properties. However, hexavalent chromium baths have come under increasing scrutiny due to the toxic nature of the bath, effects on the environment and worker health. In this work, we are updating accomplishments to achieve properties comparable to existing hexavalent chromium plating for functional applications. Work on achieving desirable thickness, uniformity, adhesion, porosity and corrosion resistance, as well as other material properties, will be discussed.

NASF’s Jeff Hannapel and Christian Richter point to major flaws, bad precedent in EPA chromium air rule. NASF leaders have submitted a 100-page package of comments to the EPA in response to the agency’s proposed rule for chromium finishing operations.

Electroplated FeC is an efficient surface treatment based on non-aggressive chemicals with a deposition rate of ~20 μm/h at a process temperature of 50°C.  The FeC coating is carbide-free and temperature stable up to ~250°C with a hardness of 750 HV, which is comparable to frequently applied hardened steels.  The FeC coating has reasonable friction properties and have high affinity towards lubricants because of incorporated amorphous carbon.  Hence, for certain applications, the FeC coating might be an interesting wear-protective alternative to hard chromium and to PVD-deposited low-friction diamond-like carbon coatings (DLC’s), which are rather difficult and costly to deposit on larger items.  

Metal Finishing Association of California urges all members of the metal finishing community to submit comments prior to the hearing.

Sierra Club also sues the EPA over the same National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants rules for plating industry; NASF's two court actions include a petition for judicial review of the ruling in the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals, and a request for reconsideration of the rule with EPA.

The U.S. EPA signed the final chromium electroplating air rule Aug. 15 after it was finally cleared by the White House; the NASF says it might take the matter to court to overturn the rule.

Electrolytic hard chromium plating (EHC) is a critical surface finishing technology that is used for applying functional coatings for corrosion and wear resistance to aircraft components in manufacturing operations and for re-build of worn or corroded components. However, EHC plating baths contain hexavalent chromium, which is a known carcinogen and environmental hazard. Therefore, the replacement of EHC in aircraft manufacturing activities and maintenance depots is a high priority for the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD).

Regulatory Alert: California Targeting Finishing Air Emissions Below Nanogram Levels

EPA and OSHA are placing heavy restrictions on hard chromium plating. Here are some options available to platers...

While problems continue to rise with using lead anodes for hard chrome plating, some manufacturers are discovering platinized titanium anodes as a much-improved alternative with a long list of advantages.