Some Questions for the Pros

[BryanD]

How does the copy chrome compare to the regular chrome in terms of appearance, cost, and regulations?

Is the appearance of copy chrome close to or the same as real chrome? How about the durability and lasting shine? Does anyone have experience with customers that only want a true chrome plate? Or any that don't care?

Is it cheaper to purchase the copy chrome setup? How much sq footage could be done with a 5 gallon setup compared to a chrome setup the same size? How much power is required for a copy chrome setup?

Would a shop that substituted the final chrome plating step for a Copy Chrome setup be subject to EPA regulation? Or would it still be regulated due to the nickel, copper, and other steps?

[bhhodges]

if i needed something that was originally chrome plated redone i wouldnt accept copy chrome as a substitute.

as long as i stay under 220 pounds of dry or wet weight of plating solutions im exempt from any epa regulations.



bill

[BryanD]

Thanks for the quick reply!

I agree that in most restoration jobs copy chrome wouldn't cut it, but you caught my interest with the comment about the EPA regulations.

I want to make sure I'm understanding this correctly. If you are using less that 220 lbs of plating solution you are exempt from the EPA? Does this apply to all tanks or just the chromium tank. I am considering an operation with 20 gallon tanks. Would this be an EPA regulated setup? Is that a state law or a Federal law?

[bhhodges]

i contacted federal epa first and since i was a private person and on a hobby level they told me to contact my state epa and i got in contact with the local compliance office for my county and he said im exempt even with chrome tanks, he also said if i do have any waste for disposal to contact the city and find out when their next haz. material disposal day is and take any waste there.


bill

[BryanD]

OK, I did a little research and found out that decorative plating with a trivalent plating bath isn't heavily regulated. You just have to keep records of purchases of chemicals.

So....

Are the chemicals sols by Caswell considered a Trivalent plating bath?


How about any experiences with Kopy Krome?

[mcaswell]

Trivalent chrome does not give a good color...it looks more like nickel, with a yellowish hue. We use hex chrome only.

[BryanD]

I figured that was too easy.

A couple of questions then:

Will the mist suppressant and fume balls control fumes well enough to meet the EPA regulation of .01 mg/dscm? Or would a scrubber be required?

Do you sell the Chrome Crystals in bulk (1x20 gallon tank worth)?

[mcaswell]

Yes, complies with EPA regs for mist suppressant.

Yes, we sell chrome in 20 gal units. Look for the 'Commercial' price list on the plating page.