Injection Molding Coatings

While thin dense chrome (TDC) and hard chrome are both considered functional coatings, TDC differs from traditional hard chrome in the thickness and surface texture. TDC coatings are in the range of 0.0001 to 0.0005”, while traditional hard chrome is usually over 0.002”, and can measure 0.010” or more, depending on the application. Because of the very low effective thickness, thin dense chrome can often be applied to existing designs without affecting tolerances or fit-up. In addition, traditional hard chrome has a microcracked surface while TDC has a micronodular surface. Both provide a low wear surface, but the micronodular texture can provide superior lubrication retention and wear resistance. Decorative chrome is another coating entirely and is actually a multilayer coating applied to provide an attractive, shiny surface with good corrosion resistance.

Yes, Armoloy offers chrome plating services near you through its extensive global network of fulfillment centers. Known for our proprietary thin dense chrome (TDC) coatings, Armoloy’s services are available worldwide, ensuring that you can access high-quality metal plating no matter your location. This network allows for efficient and timely service, catering to various industrial needs across different regions

Certification to many industry and supplier specifications is available, including AMS 2438 and AMS 2460, depending on the location.  In addition, the Armoloy network has fulfillment centers with Quality Management Systems accredited to NADCAP, ISO 9001, and AS9100 requirements.

Our highly experienced staff can support all aspects of the product lifecycle including the design, validation, manufacturing, and volume production phases.

Application engineers can assist with product design by helping to select the best coating for each application, ensuring that base metal selection provides the best combination of cost, performance, and manufacturability, and that critical design features can be reliably coated. In addition, we work with engineering partners that can provide:

• • Finite element analysis
  • Thermal analysis
  • Computational fluid dynamics

Our fully equipped laboratory can assist with product validation by testing for wear resistance, corrosion resistance, coating and base metal hardness, and on staff metallurgical support can perform detailed failure analysis to aid in troubleshooting if problems should arise.

Fixing galvanic corrosion involves several steps to break the electrochemical reaction between dissimilar metals. Here are effective methods to address galvanic corrosion:

1. Material Selection: Use metals that are close together on the galvanic series to minimize potential differences. Avoid combining metals with significantly different electrochemical potentials.
2. Insulation: Electrically insulate dissimilar metals to prevent direct contact. Use non-conductive materials such as plastic or rubber gaskets, washers, or coatings.
3. Protective Coatings: Apply protective coatings to the more noble (cathodic) metal to prevent it from acting as the cathode. Use paints, varnishes, or powder coatings to isolate the metals from the environment.
4. Cathodic Protection: Implement cathodic protection systems, such as sacrificial anodes (e.g., zinc or magnesium) that corrode preferentially, protecting the primary metal.
5. Control Environment: Reduce the presence of electrolytes (such as moisture or salts) that facilitate galvanic corrosion. Use dehumidifiers, sealants, and corrosion inhibitors.
6. Regular Maintenance: Conduct regular inspections and maintenance to identify early signs of galvanic corrosion and address them promptly.
7. Design Modifications: Redesign assemblies to avoid galvanic coupling, such as by ensuring proper drainage to avoid electrolyte accumulation and avoiding crevices where moisture can collect.

By implementing these strategies, you can effectively mitigate galvanic corrosion and extend the lifespan of your components.