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Chroming (hard chrome or electroplated chromium) is a metallic surface treatment applied to valve components such as stems, discs, plugs, and seats to enhance wear resistance, reduce friction, and improve corrosion protection. Hard chrome remains a proven and widely used surface finish for industrial valves in moderate wear applications, but for severe service or highly erosive conditions, modern alternatives like HVOF-applied carbides are preferred.

Properties

Properties

  • Moderate Wear & Galling Resistance – Reduces friction and protects against sliding wear and surface damage.
  • Low Coefficient of Friction – Improves sealing performance and reduces operating torque in valve stems and seats.
  • Corrosion Protection – Offers moderate resistance to oxidation and atmospheric corrosion, particularly in non-aggressive environments.
  • Cost-Effective & Readily Available – Often more economical than HVOF-applied coatings for less severe service.
  • Good Surface Finish Control – Provides a smooth, hard surface suitable for tight tolerance sealing applications.

Chroming vs. Other Surface Treatments
• Smoother and more precise than nitriding or boriding for valve stem applications
• Less wear-resistant than tungsten or chromium carbide coatings applied via HVOF
• More cost-effective than Stellite® overlays, but with reduced lifespan in extreme service

Limitations

Limitations

  • Lower Wear Resistance Compared to Carbides – Not as durable as tungsten carbide or chromium carbide coatings in severe erosion or abrasive service.
  • Environmental Concerns – Hexavalent chromium used in the plating process is highly regulated, driving a shift toward HVOF and alternative coatings.
  • Surface-Only Hardening – Provides a thin coating (typically 25-100 microns) that can wear through over time under heavy load or impact.

Common Applications

Common Applications

General Industrial Valves – Hard chrome-plated stems and trims in ball, globe, and gate valves.
Oil & Gas Valves – Used on choke and control valve trims in mildly erosive environments.
Water & Wastewater Valves – Found on shafts, stems, and plug valves where moderate wear resistance is required.
Power Plant Valves – Applied to components in feedwater and condensate systems.
Chemical & Pulp/Paper Valves – Used for abrasion reduction in slurry or pulp-handling valves.