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Old 01-06-2004, 01:48 PM
tbloss001 tbloss001 is offline
Amateur Metal Finisher
 
Join Date: Apr 2003
Posts: 52
tbloss001
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There a few way to remove chrome and I'll tell you how I do it.
(as long as you understand that this is how I do it and just because I get good results, I can't be held responsible for yours).

I de-plate chromed items by using a 25% lye solution. You can buy lye in crystal form and add water to get a proper ratio (it doesn't have to be exact). I then suspend my part in the solution, attache the positive lead to it and the negative lead to my stainless steel container (you could use a plastic or glass container with a stainless steel plate inside).

I only work with small parts, usually between 4 to 6 square inches, so voltages of 5 to 6 volts @ 300 milliamps for 10 minutes does the job just fine. If you're doing bigger items, you'll have to adjust accordingly; I'd concentrate on adjusting the amperage more than the voltage.

You can see it working, as the chrome will start to dissipate from the part and start turning your lye solution yellow.

It will completely remove the chrome and leave the nickel undercoat undisturbed.

WARNING.
Do NOT use this method on any type of aluminum.
Be careful how you dispose of the used solution, it's very toxic.
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