Trivia: "Why does chrome plating still rust?"

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last updated：Jun 21, 2022

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I will answer the question, "Why do parts and rolls that have been coated rust or corrode?"

This is due to the presence of micro-cracks, which are invisible cracks, on the chrome-plated surface. Micro-cracks are interconnected within the plating film, and tracing them can reveal connections from the surface to the base material. Therefore, when exposed to environments with high humidity and condensation or to environments with strong corrosive gases, corrosive factors can enter through the micro-cracks, leading to corrosion of the base material that has been chrome-plated. As a result, rust may appear on the surface of the item, or the chrome plating may start to lift due to corrosion, ultimately leading to peeling. As a countermeasure, when using rolls in corrosive environments, it is common to use stainless steel for the base material; however, for iron or aluminum, methods such as nickel + chrome plating or double plating are also available. Countermeasure 1: It is called nickel chrome. By applying nickel plating as a base layer and chrome plating on top of the nickel plating, corrosion caused by micro-cracks can be prevented. Countermeasure 2: This method involves processing the chrome plating in two layers. By separating the application of chrome plating into the first and second layers, the number of micro-cracks that reach the base material is reduced, which is expected to effectively prevent corrosion caused by micro-cracks.

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<Summary> When using chrome plating in a corrosive environment, selecting the appropriate plating method may help prevent rust formation. However, it is important to identify the causes of rust and respond appropriately. Of course, corrosion can also be caused by defects in the plating, such as pits or pinholes, rather than micro-cracks. When corrosion occurs, analyzing the cause and taking appropriate measures can help prevent recurrence. As for what to do with products that have developed rust, when rust appears on the chrome-plated surface, it is a sign that the base material is corroding, so it is generally recommended to re-plate. Depending on the extent of corrosion, it may be possible to use the item for a while if the surface rust is simply wiped clean. However, the fact that the base material is corroding means that corrosion may progress, potentially leading to the plating peeling off at some point. If the chrome plating surface appears to be bubbling, it indicates that corrosion has progressed significantly and the plating is in the process of delaminating. It is advisable to consult early before this happens.