The use of chrome plating on steel and aluminum mill work rolls has risen steadily over the last two decades. In the steel industry, its use is limited to cold rolling operations while in the aluminum industry its use benefits both cold and hot mill rolling operations. The unique physical properties of chromium, high hardness, high lubricity, wear ability and low coefficient of friction make chrome plating an excellent economical choice for preserving the desired surface characteristics on work rolls. Benefits include reduced iron fines or aluminum oxide generated, increased roll life, longer production runs, reduced roll grinds and shot blasting along with the ability in many cases to widen out, easing production schedules.
Electrodepositing of chromium has little effect on preexisting surface characteristics. RA is virtually unchanged and peak counts are slightly accentuated.
The benefits of improved, more uniform product quality and increased production make chrome an economic necessity in today's quality driven market. |
