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Can a nickel-chrome plate be applied to bright annealed stainless tubing?

I am wanting to bend 304 bright annealed tubing and then apply a nickel-chrome plate. Does anyone foresee any problems as far as flaking or discoloration?

Jon Barnwell
- Hendersonville, North Carolina
2002

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First of three simultaneous responses --

You're bending it first, then plating it, right? I can't see any problem as long as a reliable activation step for the stainless steel is included.

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey
2002

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Second of three simultaneous responses --

Hi,

Your application is done every day but answering your question, it will depend on who is doing it to forsee problems. If its an experienced plater the answer should be between 2-5 percent rejects and reworks in high volumes; a little more for short runs. But if attempted by newcomers, 95-100% rejects until someone throws the towel.

Guillermo Marrufo
Monterrey, NL, Mexico
2002

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Third of three simultaneous responses -- 2002

What do you need the nickel for? Just Chrome "flash" like the 1960's Pontiac double hood stripes. The chromium will retard the corrosion and dulling of the stainless steel.

Robert H Probert
Robert H Probert Technical Services

Garner, North Carolina