[DML] Re: Chrome Wheels

[KayoOng@xxxx]

Dan,

Yes, you are correct, you can chrome plate aluminum.
You can even chrome plastic too, but do the finish last?

For this very reason, why many people don't suggest or use the process of 
chrome plating aluminum. Longevity is the question!
I understand that this "chroming" process for aluminum is not stable for it 
peels and pits faster then the surfaces that are anodized. 

Heat and temperature changes will causes an electrolysis effect between the 
chrome material and aluminum's surfaces -- it will be inevitable. Chroming 
process requires a copper base for the chrome to start the process. One 
reason why it cost so much. Second is the labor required to polish the plated 
finish surface. 

Aluminum as a material expands and contracts faster then the chrome surface.
Stress and heat also creates premature failure for the chrome plating. Thus 
generating cracking and peeling. 
Units that requires high tolerances and that are subjected to high stress are 
anodized as a choice of finish. 

Anodizing and does not change the balance of the unit. Chrome plating adds a 
new skin to the unit's surface which will help for the wear and tear. For 
example they chrome line cylinder's wall.

Durability and longevity is the question of realty. 

I have seen failure in the area of chrome plating aluminum. Many people who 
understand this problem will shunt the idea of chrome plating aluminum. 
Unless they have UPDATED, IMPROVED or CHANGED upon this process -- forget 
about it.

Many people feel this is not the right direction for the money to be 
invested. The cost of the chrome plating aluminum process out weights the 
cost and the durability of anodizing. I also personally think that chrome 
items that are not "done right" looks gordy and tasteless. 


Kayo Ong
#05508
Lic 9D NY

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