Coatings for Renewable Energy

Are Armoloy TDC Coatings Magnetic?

No, Armoloy Thin Dense Chrome (TDC) coatings are non-magnetic.

This characteristic is especially important in industries where magnetic interference could cause performance issues or safety concerns. Non-magnetic coatings like Armoloy TDC are ideal for:

• Medical Devices: In surgical environments and MRI applications, magnetic materials can interfere with sensitive imaging equipment or pose risks during procedures. Non-magnetic surfaces ensure compatibility with diagnostic tools and reduce the chance of distortion in imaging results.

• Electronics and Semiconductors: Precision instruments and high-frequency devices often require non-magnetic components to avoid electromagnetic interference (EMI), which can degrade signal quality or disrupt functionality.

• Aerospace and Defense: In these industries, non-magnetic materials help prevent navigational and communication disturbances, especially in environments where radar or sensitive magnetic sensors are involved.

In contrast, magnetic coatings may be suitable for industrial applications where magnetic properties are beneficial—for instance, in magnetic clamps, lifting equipment, or sensing mechanisms that rely on ferromagnetic interaction.

Armoloy TDC’s non-magnetic nature, combined with its exceptional wear resistance, corrosion protection, and hardness, makes it a trusted solution for components where both mechanical durability and magnetic neutrality are essential.

Decorative chrome is primarily used for appearance and corrosion resistance. It’s a multilayer coating, typically consisting of copper, nickel, and a very thin layer of chrome (under 0.00001″), applied to give surfaces a bright, reflective finish — common in automotive trim or bathroom fixtures.

Hard chrome (also called industrial chrome) is a functional coating applied at thicknesses over 0.002″, sometimes exceeding 0.010″ for wear protection. It has a microcracked surface, which can help with oil retention but may reduce corrosion resistance in some environments.

Thin Dense Chrome (TDC), such as Armoloy TDC, is a refined form of hard chrome applied at much thinner tolerances: typically 0.0001″ to 0.0005″. It features a micronodular structure instead of microcracks, offering better lubricity, wear resistance, and tolerance control. Because of its thinness, TDC can often be applied to precision components without affecting fit or dimensional integrity.

Yes, Armoloy provides chrome plating services through a global network of Process Fulfillment Centers located across North America, Europe, Asia, and Africa. Whether you’re based in the U.S., Europe, or overseas, Armoloy can service your region with consistent access to its proprietary Thin Dense Chrome (TDC) and XADC coatings.

These fulfillment centers specialize in fast-turnaround plating for a range of industries — including aerospace, food processing, medical devices, and nuclear components. To find the nearest Armoloy facility or arrange shipping logistics, visit our location directory or contact our central support team.

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.

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.