what is metal finishing

The Armoloy Corporation is an innovative, US-based metal finishing company specializing in thin dense chrome and coatings application engineering. This franchising organization is equipped with an in-house metallurgical and chemical testing laboratory that focuses on the research and development of new coating technologies and applications.

Metal treating is a broad term that refers to a variety of processes used to modify the surface and internal properties of metals to enhance performance in specific applications. This includes heat treatment, surface coatings, plating, and other chemical or mechanical methods. Metal treating is used to improve a metal’s hardness, strength, corrosion resistance, wear resistance, and other characteristics. Common methods of metal treating include:

• Heat Treatment: Processes like hardening, annealing, tempering, and quenching alter the internal structure of the metal to enhance properties like hardness and ductility​.
• Surface Coating and Plating: Techniques such as electroplating, thermal spraying, and vapor deposition apply a protective or functional coating to the metal surface. These treatments are often used to improve corrosion resistance or wear resistance​.
• Chemical Treatments: Methods like carburizing or nitriding involve adding elements like carbon or nitrogen to the surface of metals to change their surface composition, improving hardness and fatigue resistance​.

These treatments are essential in industries like aerospace, automotive, manufacturing, and food processing, ensuring that metals perform effectively in demanding environments.

The Armoloy Corporation performs all chemical, mechanical, and corrosion testing in our in-house laboratory. Armoloy also partners with 3rd party laboratories for additional testing methods when necessary.

The Armoloy Network includes 16 facilities in North America, Europe, Asia, and Africa.  Armoloy is constantly expanding its service offerings with facilities strategically placed for fast lead times and efficient delivery to anywhere across the globe.  Find a full list of our U.S. and international processing facilities by visiting our Licensed Processing Facilities page. Please contact us with any related questions.

Thin Dense Chrome (TDC) can be applied to most ferrous and non-ferrous alloys. Thin Dense Chrome is not recommended for aluminum, magnesium, and titanium substrates without an intermediate layer. However, Armoloy’s Bi-Protec® and ALCOAT® are exceptional alternative coating technologies for plating on aluminum substrates and offer unparalleled performance in wear and corrosion protection in the most unforgiving environments.

The Armoloy Corporation operates a total 10 processing facilities across 8 U.S. states, as well as 6 international facilities located in individual countries spread throughout 3 continents.

Armoloy offers two separate process development facilities within the United States that work in partnership with our innovation center. They are located in DeKalb, Illinois and Providence, Rhode Island.

Yes, we are happy to work with suppliers to choose the right coating, develop a robust process, and identify the ideal processing partner to fit any application. Learn more about our process on our How It Works page.

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.

Metal coatings are used to impart a variety of properties to components that aren’t otherwise present in the base metal itself. These properties can include improved wear, corrosion, or chemical resistance, they can be applied for aesthetic reasons, to help to reduce friction, fretting, and galling, or for a variety of other reasons. Coatings can be a cost-effective way of meeting performance requirements without having to resort to the use of an exotic or expensive base metal.

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.

The Armoloy TDC coating will achieve hardness values of up to 78Rc, with results ranging from 72 to 78Rc. Standard hard chrome typically ranges from 68 to 72Rc. The higher rate of hardness is due to the increased density of the coating and lack of a micro-cracked surface. The hardness of the coating is not as applied to the part surface. Due to its incredibly thin nature, hardness readings taken directly on part surfaces measure a combination of the coating and part surface hardness. Coating hardness must be measured on a specially prepared coupon and tested per ASTM E384.

Components coated with Armoloy TDC are 100% safe for workers and end users.  Plated components are used extensively in the food and drug industry, and routinely certified for REACH and RoHS compliance. In addition, Armoloy invests heavily in the newest technology to help ensure the safety of our employees and communities. For more information, learn about the misconceptions of chromium coatings.

XADC is a co-deposit of spherical nanodiamonds and Armoloy Thin Dense Chrome. XADC is useful for many applications and particularly excels as a coating for injection molds where high glass fiber resins are used, or in rotating components where especially low friction is desirable.

Thin Dense Chrome (TDC), sometimes referred to as flash chrome or functional chrome, is an electroplated coating applied to manufacturing applications at a general thickness range of 0.0001” to 0.0002”. Unlike hard chrome, Armoloy Thin Dense Chrome is free of micro cracks which reduces the amount of contact with mating surfaces, significantly reducing friction and prolonging the life of machined components.

Thin Dense Chrome (TDC) can be applied to most ferrous and non-ferrous alloys. Thin Dense Chrome is not recommended for aluminum, magnesium, and titanium substrates without an intermediate layer. However, Armoloy’s Bi-Protec® and ALCOAT® are exceptional alternative coating technologies for plating on aluminum substrates and offer unparalleled performance in wear and corrosion protection in the most unforgiving environments.

Armoloy TDC has been successfully used in virtually all industries including aviation, automotive, nuclear power, oil and gas production, injection molding, food and drug manufacturing, and many others. Any component that could benefit from improved wear resistance, corrosion protection, or reduced friction and improved release properties will benefit from the use of Armoloy Thin Dense Chrome.

Yes, Armoloy coatings will conduct electricity. Chat with an Armoloy engineer for information on conductive and non-conductive coatings.

Yes, Armoloy coatings will conduct electricity. Chat with an Armoloy engineer for information on conductive and non-conductive coatings.

XADC is a co-deposit of spherical nanodiamonds and Armoloy Thin Dense Chrome. XADC is useful for many applications and particularly excels as a coating for injection molds where high glass fiber resins are used, or in rotating components where especially low friction is desirable.

Diamond chrome plating is an advanced electroplating process that combines traditional chrome plating with the incorporation of nano-sized synthetic diamond particles. This proprietary technique creates a micronodular, crack-free surface texture that enhances the hardness, wear resistance, and thermal conductivity of the plated surface. The resulting coating is highly durable and capable of withstanding extreme wear conditions, making it ideal for applications in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and plastic injection molding.

Nano diamond coating is a process where a thin layer of diamond particles, typically at the nanometer scale, is applied to a material to enhance its properties. Diamond coating is achieved through methods like electroplating or chemical vapor deposition (CVD). Benefits of diamond coating include:

• Enhanced Hardness: Significantly increases surface hardness and wear resistance. 
• Low Friction: Reduces friction, improving the efficiency and lifespan of components. 
• Thermal Conductivity: Offers high thermal conductivity for better heat dissipation. 
• Corrosion Resistance: Provides excellent protection against corrosion. 
• Surface Uniformity: Results in a smooth, uniform surface with tight dimensional tolerances. 

Diamond coating is ideal for aerospace, cutting tools, medical devices, and high-wear applications.  

Plastic deformation is the permanent distortion that occurs when a material experiences stresses. Plastic deformation allows the material to change shape when the applied stress exceeds the yield strength.

The temperature at which stress corrosion cracking (SCC) occurs depends on the specific material and the corrosive environment. However, SCC typically occurs within a specific temperature range where both the corrosive environment and tensile stress are effective. Here are some general guidelines:

1. Stainless Steels in Chloride Environments: SCC is most likely to occur between 50°C and 150°C (122°F to 302°F). This temperature range provides optimal conditions for chloride-induced cracking.
2. Carbon Steels in Caustic Environments: SCC can occur at temperatures above 60°C (140°F), especially in concentrated caustic solutions.
3. Brass in Ammonia Environments: SCC is known to occur at room temperature to slightly elevated temperatures when exposed to ammonia or ammonium compounds.
4. High-Strength Alloys: SCC in high-strength alloys, such as certain aluminum or titanium alloys, can occur over a wide range of temperatures, depending on the environment and stress levels.

Nickel boron does not rust in the traditional sense as iron does, but it can corrode under certain conditions. This coating is highly resistant to corrosion, significantly reducing the risk of rusting on the coated surface. The protective layer created by nickel boron nitride prevents oxidation and other environmental factors that typically lead to rust​.

The frictional properties of metal depend on several factors, including the type of metal, surface finish, and the presence of lubricants. Generally, metal surfaces can exhibit significant friction when in contact with other materials, especially other metals. Key points include:

• Surface Roughness: Rough metal surfaces have higher friction compared to smooth, polished surfaces.
• Lubrication: Applying lubricants can reduce friction between metal surfaces. Low friction coatings like thin dense chrome can reduce friction significantly, especially when combined with the appropriate lubricant.
• Material Pairing: The combination of different metals or metal with non-metal materials can affect friction levels. For instance, metal-on-metal contact typically has higher friction compared to metal-on-plastic contact.
• Environmental Factors: Temperature, humidity, and the presence of contaminants can influence the frictional behavior of metals.

Understanding these factors is crucial for applications where controlling friction is important, such as in machinery, automotive components, and manufacturing processes.

Steel typically exhibits moderate to high friction depending on various factors such as surface finish, lubrication, and the counter material it contacts. Here are key points to consider:

• Surface Finish: Rough or untreated steel surfaces tend to have higher friction compared to polished or smooth surfaces.
• Lubrication: Applying lubricants like oil or grease can significantly reduce the friction of steel surfaces.
• Material Interaction: The friction level of steel changes when paired with different materials. For instance, steel-on-steel contact usually has higher friction than steel-on-plastic.
• Environmental Conditions: Factors like temperature, humidity, and the presence of contaminants can also influence steel's frictional properties.

In applications where reducing friction is crucial, such as in machinery and automotive components, appropriate surface treatments and lubrication are essential to manage steel's friction levels effectively.

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.

Fixing pitting corrosion involves several steps to remove the damaged areas and prevent further deterioration. Here are effective methods to address pitting corrosion:

1. Alloy Selection: Choose alloys with higher PREN values like 316 stainless steel for better resistance.
2. Design Practices: Optimize designs to minimize crevices and promote proper drainage to reduce stagnation.
3. Barrier Coatings: Use coatings like paints, epoxies, or Armoloy to protect metal surfaces from corrosive environments.

Preventive Maintenance:

• Conduct regular inspections to detect early signs of pitting corrosion.
• Apply corrosion inhibitors to protect susceptible metals.
• Ensure proper drainage and avoid stagnant water or corrosive deposits.

By following these steps, you can effectively repair pitting corrosion and extend the lifespan of your metal components.

Identifying erosion corrosion involves a combination of visual inspection, non-destructive testing, and analysis. Here’s how to identify it:

1. Visual Inspection: Look for characteristic signs such as:
   • Surface Roughness: Increased surface roughness with grooves or pits.
   • Localized Damage: Distinct localized areas where material loss is evident, often downstream or at bends.
   • Surface Patterns: Patterns indicating fluid flow direction, such as streaks or scalloped surfaces.
2. Non-Destructive Testing (NDT): Utilize techniques to detect subsurface damage and measure material thickness:
   • Ultrasonic Testing: Measures the thickness of the material to identify areas of significant loss.
   • Eddy Current Testing: Detects surface and near-surface cracks and pits.
   • Radiography: Provides detailed images of the internal structure to detect erosion and corrosion.
3. Chemical Analysis: Perform tests to identify the presence of corrosive agents in the environment, such as chlorides, sulfur compounds, or acids.
4. Flow Analysis: Analyze the fluid dynamics in the system to identify high-velocity areas, turbulence, or impingement zones that could lead to erosion corrosion.
5. Microscopic Examination: Use microscopes to examine the microstructure of the material for signs of combined mechanical and chemical wear.

By combining these methods, you can accurately identify erosion corrosion and take appropriate measures to mitigate its impact.

Chemical resistance refers to a material's ability to withstand chemical attack or solvent reaction without degradation. It works through several mechanisms:

• Material Composition: The inherent properties of the material, such as the type of polymer in plastics or the alloy composition in metals, determine its resistance to certain chemicals.
• Surface Treatments and Coatings: Applying protective layers that prevent chemicals from reaching the base material.
• Cross-Linking in Polymers: In polymer materials, higher degrees of cross-linking can enhance resistance to chemical attack by making the structure more stable and less permeable.
• Barrier Properties: The ability of a material to act as a barrier to chemical diffusion, preventing or slowing the penetration of aggressive substances.