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Question by hartonson: How do I measure chrome-plated surface’s quality? Is there a (digital) tool for it?
I’m in a decorative chrome plating industry, do not work (hard chromium). I usually service job banquet chairs chrome, rims, mufflers, etc. Sometimes it is not the result of chromium as stable or constantly in the quality or satisfying as I had expected (not bright enough or stainless enough). So I need something to improve the quality by providing a standard, which I hope that this measurement tool (if any) would be measured to help me.
Best answer:
Answer by Red
My understanding of plating is some what limited but usually defects stem from dirt and contamination,
either initially on the part to plated or in the solutions used.
Cleanliness of the item can be evaluated by washing the part with denatured alcohol and doing a particle count using a microscope. Plating and wash solution need maintained to appropriate levels.
The smoothness of the finish can be measured with a surf gage, something like a Pocket Surf or Hummel.
Reflectivity could be measured but I am not aware of any products. Light sources would have to be controlled.
My guess it would be laser based.
The thickness of the plating can be made with a digital thickness gage, or measuring before and after plating.
Seems like an Ultra Sonic thickness gage could also be used.
Usually coloration is done with sample comparison coupons.
What do you think? Answer below!
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