Chrome cylinder rod is produced by using advanced processing techniques usually on AISI 1045/4140 or other steel rods, for surface removal, polishing, induction hardening, followed by hard chrome plating to a thickness minimum of 0.0005” or 0.001” per side. The finished product results in a superior impact resistant bar ideal for high quality piston rods capable of handling tough environments.
Industrial hard chrome plating is very different from the decorative chrome you’d find on the Harley tailpipe that wakes up your neighbourhood from time to time. The biggest difference is hardness. For cylinder rods, leading hydraulic seal manufacturer Hallite recommends chrome hardness of at least 67 Rockwell C (900 HV/10). However, there are other factors that go into the hard chrome plating process to ensure it is suitable for the proper operation and performance of your hydraulic cylinder