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Setting up a small workshop chroming tank

Hi, at present I do brush electroplating which I enjoy very much, but recently I have been asked if I do chroming for automotive parts and decorative small items. At present there is only 1 company near me that chrome plate but they have long lead times of 5-6 weeks. So I am thinking of setting a small tank set up in the workshop as I feel I am losing possible income. I know there is alot of health and safety aspects and I would not just jump in with both feet as I have alot of common sense. So my question is could I set one up in the workshop and how ? Also is there anyone in the uk who I could contact for professional advice. Thank you,

Wayne Russell
Brush electroplater - UK
June 2, 2008

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First of two simultaneous responses --

Not a good idea. It is a dirty filthy nasty process that the atomized chrome gets everywhere, even with a good tank exhaust system, foam and or balls.
Do a search of this site as it has been covered about 20 times a year for 10 years.

James Watts
- Navarre, Florida
June 3, 2008

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Second of two simultaneous responses --

On the 'Home' page is a chrome plating tutorial.

Then look at the bottom of 6/ 'Industry Calender' where there is a link to 'organizations' which will give you details of the Institute of Metal Finishing.

To be realistic, chrome plating is not something to be attempted without considerable knowledge. This is in addition to the considerable Safety, Health and Environmental legislation which present a constant challenge to large and experienced organisations.

Ask yourself, not if you can make it work but what do you do when it all goes wrong with someone's expensive car parts? Or 'can you afford to pay for soil analysis and removal when you move out of your present workshop?'

Geoff Smith
Hampshire, England
June 3, 2008