Chromium Coatings
Electrolytically or physically deposited chromium layers providing hardness, wear resistance, and decorative finishes on automotive components.
Overview
Chromium coatings encompass hard chrome (functional) and decorative chrome plating, as well as physical vapour deposition (PVD) and trivalent chrome processes. Hard chrome provides exceptional hardness (900–1,000 HV), wear resistance, and low friction on hydraulic rods, shock absorber shafts, and wear surfaces. Decorative chrome provides the characteristic bright, reflective finish on exterior trim, grilles, and wheels. Increasing regulatory pressure on hexavalent chromium (Cr VI) under REACH and ELV directives is driving adoption of trivalent chrome and PVD alternatives. PVD chrome offers similar aesthetics with significantly lower environmental impact.
Automotive Applications
Similar Materials
Powder Coatings
Surface Coating
A solvent-free, electrostatically applied dry coating system that is cured under heat to provide durable, high-quality finishes on automotive components.
Barite (Barium Sulphate)
Mineral Filler
Barite is a naturally occurring mineral composed of barium sulfate (BaSO4) that is primarily used as a high-density filler and weighting agent.
Antimony
Metalloid
A lustrous, brittle grey metalloid primarily used as an alloying agent to harden lead and as a chemical synergist in flame retardants.
Steel
Carbon & Alloy Steel
The most widely used structural metal in automotive manufacturing, offering an excellent combination of strength, formability, and cost-effectiveness.
Properties
Category
Type
Surface Coating
Available Colors
Available Forms
Key Properties
- Very high hardness (hard chrome)
- Excellent wear resistance
- Low coefficient of friction
- High reflectivity (decorative)
- Corrosion resistant
- Good adhesion to base metals
Sustainability
Sustainability Rating
Hexavalent chromium (Cr VI) is a carcinogen regulated under REACH and the ELV Directive. Industry is transitioning to trivalent chrome and PVD alternatives with significantly reduced environmental and health impact.