Black chrome is a chemically altered coating of chrome that provides a unique look and durability. It is used for decorative surfaces on cars, motorcycles, and household appliances. The plating process is expensive and time-consuming. Black chrome requires different care than regular chrome and has alternatives such as black paint and powder coating.
Black chrome is a coating of chrome that has been chemically altered to a black color. Chromium is electrostatically applied to a metal surface, such as an automobile wheel or motorcycle exhaust.
Black chrome has a unique look, displaying not only the high reflectivity of polished chrome, but also a depth not found in other polished finishes. A black chrome finish is hard and durable and provides some protection against rust and corrosion, largely due to the need for copper and nickel plating underlays.
Uses of black chrome
High-gloss black chrome is used as a decorative surface for visible parts of cars and motorcycles, as well as household appliances such as faucets. Conversely, black chrome with a matte finish is used inside telescopes and microscopes and in other areas where light reflection would interfere with the operation of the device.
Black chrome is expensive, often about three times as expensive as “regular” chrome. Even regular chrome is relatively expensive, averaging $100-$150 per automobile wheel. More complex wheel designs, such as wire spokes, can cost significantly more due to the extra work required.
The plating process
Chrome plating is expensive because the process, if done correctly, is time consuming and labor intensive. In the standard triple plating process, an object must first be thoroughly cleaned and prepared for plating in an electrostatic bath. It is plated with copper and then with nickel before the chrome is applied.
After each stage of the process, the object must be prepared for the next step. The materials used in both the cleaning and plating processes are caustic and hazardous, and often carcinogenic, adding significant costs to compliance with environmental protection standards.
In black chrome plating, the chemicals used in the plating process must be altered to impart the black tint to the final chrome plating.
Take care of the black chrome
Black chrome is more prone to scratches and stains than regular chrome and requires slightly different care.
Black chrome should be cleaned regularly with fresh water, using a microfibre cloth, to remove dirt and brake dust. A mild, diluted cleaner should be safe to use with black chrome.
Abrasive surfaces and abrasive chrome polish should never be used on black chrome. Make sure you choose a chrome polish that is safe for black chrome and use a clean towel to polish it.
Refinishing with high-quality automotive wax that is safe for clear coats is a great way to keep the black chrome looking its best.
Alternatives to black chrome
The combination of black paint and clear coat is a less expensive alternative to black chrome. The black paint is applied in several coats, then overcoated with a clear varnish. Hands are buffed after each application to achieve perfect smoothness and ensure maximum shine.
Powder coating is another alternative to black chrome. Powder coating involves coating the work surface with electrostatically charged powder, either by spraying or dipping, and then heat curing it, fusing the powder so it forms a smooth surface.
Some enthusiasts insist that powder coating looks identical to black chrome. However, there are limitations to powder coating in automotive applications. Objects such as exhaust pipes, which reach very high temperatures, quickly destroy the powder coatings applied to them.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
