Chrome is a highly shiny and durable finish often applied to various metals, including lightweight ones used in many applications like CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machining. This coating imparts an elegant appearance to the metal part alongside providing corrosion resistance, improved durability, and ease of cleaning attributes. However, despite its advantages, there might be instances when you need to know how to remove chrome from metal.
Here’s why – sometimes, you may want to refinish existing parts or have a project that requires bare metal. In such cases, removing the chrome plating becomes necessary. Plus, in industries like CNC machining, where material properties significantly affect final product performance, understanding this process can prove considerably beneficial.
Nevertheless, when it comes to lightweight metals specifically used in CNC machining—like aluminium and titanium—the task becomes more delicate due to their less dense structure. This article will guide you through the safe and efficient removal of chroming from these materials primarily focusing on those related to CNC machining processes.
The first method for chrome removal is through the use of chrome stripper or remover, which chemically breaks down and subsequently dissolves the chrome layer. It involves immersing the object in a professional-grade stripping solution until the chrome plating lifts off the underlying metal surface. Though effective, caution must be exercised while using these chemicals since they can also harm the base material if not appropriately controlled.
Alternatively, abrasive blasting, such as sandblasting, can take off the chrome layer by physically wearing it away. The process propels fine granules at high speeds towards the metal surface, thereby scrubbing off the chrome. While this procedure works efficiently against sturdy and thick materials, it could potentially damage your workpiece when dealing with lighter metals. Therefore, operating under modest pressures and working slowly over the piece are recommended.
However, both methods may somewhat alter the surface features and dimensional tolerances of the parts. This limitation becomes slightly problematic in CNC machining processes, where precision is paramount. Thus another method — electrochemical or reverse plating — is often preferred.
Electrolytic stripping uses an electric current flowing through a liquid electrolyte to draw chrome away from the metal surface— kind of like how.CNC machines use electricity to accurately work on different mediums. It’s done by submerging the chromed part together with another sacrificial piece into a bath of sodium hydroxide and water and connecting them to positive (anode) and negative (cathode) terminals of a power source, respectively. When switched on, the current causes oxidation of chromium, making it soluble and enabling easy removal without affecting underlying lightweight metal.
The methods outlined above should be performed with appropriate protection since they involve potent chemical reactions.
On another note, why is the emphasis on ‘lightweight’ metals? The answer ties back to CNC machining, where weight impacts overall efficiency. A light but strong material allows quicker machine operation due to less inertia during start-stop movements. Also, reduced weights facilitate easier installation and lower shipping costs for the finished components. Metals such as aluminium, titanium, and some alloys are thus favored in CNC machining operations because of their high strength-to-weight ratio.
In conclusion, removing chrome from lightweight metals used in CNC machining must be carried out carefully while ensuring that neither dimensional accuracy nor mechanical property gets compromised. Hopefully, these guidelines will place you in good stead whenever confronted with chrome removal tasks in your metalwork endeavors.
