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Ted Mooney, P.E. RET
Pine Beach, NJ

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Chrome plating stainless steel for at-sea use

I want to use architectural stainless steel mirrors (#8 finish) on a ship as part of a camera system. I am seeking the most reflectivity (shininess) and durability. It should be easy to clean to restore to its new state and should not corrode or lose its shine in salt water. Is chrome plating the way to go? Which one? If so, can you give me an idea of where to turn and how much it might cost to plate a 12" x 12" 2-mm stainless sheet. Thanks you for your help.
Vic Nalwa
- Holmdel, New Jersey, USA
2005

Chrome is highly specular and a great surface for your needs from most points of view. However, it is rather 'dark'. To most people's surprise, it is used on solar collectors not solar reflectors. If this darkness isn't a problem, you'll be happy with it. A surface that is similar but much lighter and more reflective is rhodium plating, but rhodium is a precious metal and will be much more expensive.

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey
2005

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