How to chrome metal at home

How to chrome plating metal at home: methods, conditions, procedure

Chrome plating treatment can be used both for decorative purposes and to improve the technical and operational properties of the workpiece. For metal products, this coating method is especially relevant, as it reduces the risk of corrosion.

The technology is used not only in industry, but also in private households - for example, to decorate and protect the external parts of a car.

How to chrome plating metal at home? There are several relatively accessible methods, each of which has its own implementation nuances, but there are also general rules for organizing this process.

Preparing the part for chrome plating

The quality of the applied coating directly depends on the condition of the working surface. It must not only be cleaned of dirt and dust, but also subjected to mechanical cleaning with abrasives.

Grinding machines should be used to eliminate defects characteristic of problematic parts in the form of minor damage, scale, rust and traces of old paint. The structure of the base of the product itself should remain on the surface.

This is a basic preparation condition under which you can chrome plating metal at home, expecting a positive result. Moreover, special attention is paid to persistent grease stains, which also interfere with the chromium application process.

At a minimum, aggressive chemical solvents, white spirit or gasoline, should be used for such treatment. For a more reliable cleaning effect from fat and oil films, experts also recommend using compositions based on caustic soda, silicate glue and soda ash, preheating them at a temperature of up to 85-90 ºС

During the chrome plating process, regardless of the processing method used, the release of harmful fumes is inevitable, so you should immediately abandon residential premises. The optimal place is a garage, utility room or other technical room. But that's not all. It is necessary to consider stable ventilation with efficient exhaust.

You cannot rely on natural weathering, since harmful substances can have an impact already during the work. How to chrome metal at home without causing harm to health? Even if ventilation is available, personal protective equipment should be prepared.

The required kit includes construction glasses, a respirator, an apron and rubber-coated gloves.

Preparing the container for chrome plating

In any case, to perform the procedure, you will need a conditional bath to keep the part in the working solution. Depending on the size of the part, a 3-liter jar, basin, tank or classic bath can be used. The only limiting parameter of choice is the material of manufacture - glass or metal that does not enter into chemical reactions with the electrolyte. Next, you should start arranging the selected container.

First, it must be installed on a flat surface and locked in a stable position so that the chrome plated metal receives an even coating. Secondly, in cold weather the container will need thermal insulation, which can be fiberglass, mineral wool or bulk material (sand, expanded clay).

At the same stage, devices or structures are thought out for conveniently holding the workpiece and functional devices that will be used at different stages of the operation.

When performing metallization at home, electrodes are required that will be connected to the workpiece to ensure an electrochemical reaction. A negative cathode must be connected to the product, and a positive anode must be connected to the solution. The shape of the electrodes is selected according to convenience; both rod and plate elements can be used.

But how can metal be chromed so that the contact does not open during the entire operation? For a circuit that supplies current to the part, an electrical alligator clip should be provided. It will securely grip the workpiece in the desired position. If you plan to process a compact, lightweight part, this grip will also replace the equipment that holds it in the solution.

A regular rheostat can act directly as a current source with sufficient voltage. For small workpieces, wires with a cross-section of up to 2.5 mm2 will be sufficient.

Electrolyte solutions

For this procedure, ordinary car enthusiasts use a simplified composition based on chromic anhydride (250 g/l) and sulfuric acid (up to 3 g/l). It is important to keep in mind that the main ingredient of hexavalent chromium is the above-mentioned anhydride, and trivalent chromium is chromium chloride or sulfate.

The second scheme is used less frequently, since such a composition has a significant impact on the texture and textural properties of the part. As for the temperature regime, high-quality chrome-plated metal can be obtained at 45-60 °C, but this range can expand depending on the chosen technology.

Now we can take a closer look at the methods for implementing the task.

Electrochemical technology

The most common method that is widely used in the domestic sphere. Instructions for its use look like this:

• The prepared container is filled with water approximately 60-70%. It is important to note that the liquid must be pre-filtered - it is best to use settled distilled water.
• The container is heated until the temperature of the contents reaches approximately 60 °C.
• The calculated volume of chromic anhydride is poured. It should be thoroughly mixed in water.
• At this stage, you may encounter the problem of not having the required amount of water. How to chrome plating metal at home if there is a need to adjust the proportions of the solution? It is advisable to avoid this, but in any case, it is recommended to make adjustments in the direction of increasing the volume of water to fill the required level of the container.
• Sulfuric acid is added in the required quantity.
• Having stirred the solution again, it should be allowed to stand for 3-4 hours while applying current at the rate of 6.5 A per 1 liter. As the reaction progresses, the electrolyte will gradually acquire a dark brown tint.

Source: https://FB.ru/article/442746/kak-hromirovat-metall-v-domashnih-usloviyah-metodyi-usloviya-poryadok-provedeniya-protseduryi

DIY chemical metallization at home

To protect parts of various mechanisms or parts of metal structures from corrosion, giving them additional wear resistance, hardness and improving the aesthetic appearance, chrome or nickel plating is used.

These methods involve applying a chemically inert coating of chromium or nickel to the surface of structures, improving aesthetics. Applying such a film is an energy-intensive process.

Technologically, it is complex, but it provides protection for many decades without any noticeable loss to appearance.

Often there is a need to cover with a decorative film those products that were not initially subjected to the chrome plating process. Thus, if desired, you can, for example, change the appearance of the sculpture and make the interior of any living space modern.

You can decorate your car or motorcycle to your liking. It’s not at all difficult to do this even with your own hands, that is, without using complicated technologies.

It is possible to apply a chrome film even on structures with complex relief, and not just convex, flat or concave ones.

Basic methods of chrome plating

1. Chemical metallization process.
2. Galvanization.
3. Vacuum spraying.
4. High temperature diffusion.

The last two methods are used only in industrial enterprises.

These processes cannot be performed at home, since they require technically complex installations and increased energy costs.

But chemical metallization and galvanization are exactly the same processes that can be carried out in a personal workshop. Let's take a closer look at how this is done.

Chemical metallization of surfaces and parts

In the process of this work, chemical reagents, a compressor and a spray gun are used. Almost the same operations are performed as when painting surfaces with acrylic varnish or enamel. When chrome plating in this way, not a protective polymer film is applied to parts and structures, but a mirror-like thin layer of metal. Its thickness is in the range of 0.075-0.25 millimeters. The chemical and physical characteristics of such a coating are comparable to those obtained by vacuum deposition.

How to perform chemical metallization

1st method. The surface is coated with special chemicals. As a result of the chemical reaction, a precipitate is formed, which is a durable metal layer. The coating can be made not only from chrome, but also from silver.

2nd method. During the process of a reducing chemical reaction, a layer of chromium is formed from the salts. Prepare a set of acetic acid, chromyl chloride, chromium chloride, chromium acetate, sodium hyposophite, sodium hydroxide, chromium phosphate. It must be remembered that these substances are very toxic and hazardous to health.

And therefore, you should carefully study the chemistry textbook if you decide to carry out the chrome plating process using this method. But achieving high quality is very difficult, even with detailed instructions. Despite all the existing disadvantages, this method is most often used for chrome plating surfaces in home workshops.

It is very convenient to carry out the plating process using ready-made test kits of chemicals for chrome plating. They are offered by Fusion Technologies.

The convenience of such kits is that the coating can be applied to any of the listed materials: metal, ceramics, wood, glass, plastic. Galvanic installations and special complex equipment are not required.

All you need is a spacious room, distilled water, a compressor, a sprayer and a set of chemicals. In addition, you need to prepare a gas burner with a gas cylinder.

Safety regulations

1. Ventilation device in the workshop. Opening doors and windows will not solve the problem. Install an ordinary kitchen fan into the window. This will be enough for amateur work. If you plan to work on a private enterprise scale, chrome plating a large number of spare parts for cars, decorative interior items, then you will need to install more efficient and powerful ventilation.
2. Sewage equipment. The work will require large amounts of water to wash parts. Additional cleaning is not necessary, since it is chemically inert. But the drainage into the sewer canal must be equipped.
3. In order not to expose the respiratory system and skin to dangerous effects of reagents, it is recommended to work with the use of protective equipment.

   Stock up on respirators, special safety glasses and a durable apron. You will also need several pairs of rubber gloves.

When performing chemical metallization in your personal workshop, do not forget about strict adherence to technology. Reagents should be applied to the surface in the specified order. This is followed by the application of a thin layer of silver. This metal is safe, unlike chromium and compounds.

The finishing layer is in no way inferior to chrome in terms of characteristics.

A set of reagents for metallization consists of modifiers A and B, a reducing agent and an activator. At the very beginning of work, the reagents are diluted in the specified volume of distilled water. Proportions are strictly observed. Solutions should be stored in a cool place. You can buy the varnishes and pigments necessary for the work at the same store where you bought the reagents.

Work order

1. Preparation of a part or structure. The surface should be thoroughly cleaned. It should be as smooth as possible. This is done by polishing.
2. The varnishing process is then carried out using a varnish designed for this purpose.
3. When the varnish is completely dry, the surface is treated with a gas torch. This technological process changes the structure of the varnish at the molecular level.

   This is done to increase absorption and adhesion for the metallized coating.

4. Following the heat treatment, the activator is sprayed. Excess activator is quickly washed off with water.
5. While the surface is still wet, a modifier is applied, followed by a solvent. The reaction between them leads to the formation of the necessary mirror coating layer. Again, the product is washed with water and dried with a directed stream of air.

6. The metallization process takes about six hours. After this, in accordance with the technology, the part is varnished. The effect of bronze, chrome or gold is achieved by adding appropriate pigments to the varnish. If you decide to chrome parts at home and with your own hands, order all the necessary chemicals on the company’s website.

   If necessary, specialists will provide qualified assistance and suggest suitable options for installing equipment in your home workshop.

Galvanization

The galvanic method is the coating of cast iron, steel, brass or copper structures with a layer of chromium. But not only metal products can be chrome-plated by galvanization.

This method can also be used for chrome plating of plastic and wooden products. But in these cases the process will be expensive and technologically complex.

To firmly hold the chrome coating on the surface of parts, even metal products require another preliminary coating. For this purpose, nickel, brass or copper are used.

Galvanization requires the creation of a galvanizing plant. In addition, you need a DC source and a set of reagents. This set consists of chromium anhydride, sulfuric acid, soda ash and sodium hydroxide.

It should be noted that when working with this method, it is required that there are no changes in current strength. You also need to constantly monitor the level of salt concentration in the electrolyte and strictly observe the temperature regime for quite a long period (from 5 to 8 hours). Fulfilling all of the above conditions in home workshops is not an easy task. It is for this reason that we will not describe the galvanization process in detail in this review.

Materials for chrome plating

Source: https://fusion-chrome.ru/instruktsii/khromirovanie-svoimi-rukami-v-domashnikh-usloviyakh/

Electroplating at home: do-it-yourself chrome plating without problems

This process is simple. To create a thin chrome film on any type of metal, wood or even plastic products, you only need an electrolyte, a container of a suitable size and a source of electric current. Plus, since free hexavalent chromium is a carcinogen, you should be prepared with a respirator, rubber apron and gloves.

Process technology

Electrolytes are substances that can release ions – charged particles – under the influence of an electric current. This is what the principle of galvanization is based on. In our case, chromic anhydride will be used as an electrolyte. Released particles that will be deposited on the workpiece, forming a film - chromium molecules.

To chrome a part at home, it must be immersed in a bath of solution and connected to the negative wire. The positive anode is immersed in the electrolyte. Under the influence of current, the molecules in the electrolyte will begin to move. Positively charged to the minus (cathode), negative - to the plus. Moreover, some of the molecules form a film, and some will penetrate into the top layer, as a result of which chromium is firmly fixed on the surface. This makes galvanizing significantly different from conventional painting.

In a similar way, not only chrome plating is carried out, but also nickel plating, coating of products with copper and zinc. The processing principle will be the same in any case. The thickness of the spraying will depend on the current strength, heating temperature, processing time, and type of metal.

It is also possible to carry out chemical chrome plating at home. No special equipment is required here. The formation of a metal film on the surface in this case occurs due to chemical reactions in which sodium hypophosphite serves as a reagent. But such a coating is less durable - it is used only for decorative purposes.

Required Equipment

Electroplating (chrome plating) at home is possible if you have the following type of equipment:

• power supply: it should show 1A at the output and be equipped with a voltage regulator; for small volumes of work, a current rectifier is sufficient; the wiring cross-section depends on the size of the workpiece (minimum 6.25 mm);
• wires: the positive one will be immersed in the electrolyte, the negative one, with an alligator holder, will be located at the end towards the workpiece;
• anodes made of tin, lead or antimony alloys;
• containers of suitable size made of chemically resistant, non-conductive material; the ideal option is a plastic bath; for chrome plating of small parts, a glass jar is sufficient;
• a wooden box with thermal insulation made of glass or mineral wool in which the container will be placed; Ordinary sand can also be used as insulation;
• sealed lid: it can be made from a piece of plywood or wooden boards;
• heating element, the power of which is sufficient to heat the liquid in the selected container to a temperature of 60-80°C;
• contact thermometer or thermostat;
• a hollow mold for pouring electrolyte with a tap or brush at the end; to make it, a bundle of copper wire is used, secured and tied with lead wire.

Electrolyte preparation

It will be chromic anhydride. To ensure that chrome plating of parts at home occurs without problems, the amount of reagents is measured to grams. It is convenient to use a kitchen scale for these purposes.

1. The container is half filled with distilled water heated to 60°C. You can replace it with boiled water, well settled until sediment forms.
2. We introduce electrolyte (you will need 250 g per liter of water). Stir.
3. Pour water again to fill the bath completely.
4. The last step is the addition of sulfuric acid. You will need a little of it - 2.5 g per liter of water.
5. If the amount of water has decreased during a chemical reaction, it can be added.
6. We pass a current through the solution for 3.5 hours so that there is 6A per liter of liquid. It should turn dark brown.
7. Turn off the current and let the solution sit for a day. The room should be dark and cool at this time.

Surface preparation

This important stage should be given special attention. After all, you can get a high-quality coating only on perfectly cleaned and grease-free surfaces. Therefore, before chrome-plating metal, wood or plastic at home, they must be thoroughly cleaned.

The parts being processed should be free of dust, dirt, and the slightest traces of rust. Old coating and paint should also be completely removed.

After cleaning, uneven surfaces are thoroughly sanded. There should be no chips or scratches left. The next stage is polishing with sandpaper and special pastes.

Then the part to be chrome-plated is degreased in a solution heated almost to boiling (90°C). Products made of non-ferrous metals can be treated with a mixture of soap without cosmetic additives and sodium phosphate. Steel or cast iron is immersed in a solution of liquid glass, caustic soda, sodium carbonate and sodium phosphate. Sulfuric acid is used to remove the oxide film.

Chrome plating in stages

Due to the high toxicity of free chromium, all work must be carried out in a non-residential area equipped with ventilation. It is strictly prohibited to flush electroplating waste down the drain. For them, you should prepare a special chemical-resistant container made of glass or plastic.

1. The anode is immersed in the bath. The negative cathode is connected to the transformer.
2. The workpiece is suspended at a certain distance from the walls of the container. She shouldn't touch them.
3. The current is connected.
4. The color of the coating will depend not only on the type of electrolyte, but also on the temperature of its heating. If it is below 35°C, the film will be matte. You can achieve shine by raising the temperature to 35-55°C. Milky chrome plating is obtained by heating above 55°C.
5. The exposure time depends on the thickness of the future coating. The average duration is 2-3 minutes.
6. Do-it-yourself chrome plating of plastic at home is not much different from electroplating other types of materials. The part is placed in a container with electrolyte and connected to the negative wire.
7. Since chromium cannot adhere to all types of metals (only brass, nickel and copper), coating steel products requires the creation of a substrate layer.
8. The process begins with a “push” of current. In the first 20-60 seconds, its density should be 2 times higher than the working one. This allows for better treatment of recessed areas. Then the current density is set to the recommended value and the part is processed for another 1-1.5 minutes.
9. The temperature must be maintained at the same level throughout.
10. The last stage is double rinsing with water. After the first, the electrolyte is neutralized using alkali (regular baking soda).
11. The finished product should be polished using paste.

So, chrome plating parts yourself is a real process. Of course, obtaining a wear-resistant coating at home will be problematic - this will require currents of up to 100 A. But a thin, durable film of chromium is quite capable of protecting parts and components from moisture and corrosion. Electroplating also allows you to create original items for interior decoration.

Source: https://kraskaok.ru/hromiruem-detali-v-domashnih-usloviyah-tehnologiya-i-neobhodimoe-oborudovanie/

Do-it-yourself chrome plating

Chrome parts are widespread. Like other coatings, the chrome layer, as it wears out over time, loses its protective properties and visual appeal. Its restoration is possible with your own hands at home due to the simplicity and low cost of the technology. In addition, this method can be used to process initially non-chromed parts.

Chrome plating of parts at home

Purpose

The main purpose of using this technology is to create a decorative coating. In addition, chrome plating provides protection against reagents and corrosion for metal surfaces, and also increases the strength of both metal and plastic products. At home, decorative chrome plating is usually used.

This technology has wide application. Thus, chrome plating is used for vehicle parts, plumbing fixtures, furniture elements, etc.

It should be borne in mind that this treatment is suitable for items made of copper, brass, and nickel. Steel and plastic parts require additional processing.

The main motive for independently performing the work in question is to save money.

Chrome plating for decorative purposes

Do-it-yourself chrome plating of parts is very common. This is explained by its simplicity for independent implementation and low cost due to the absence of the need for expensive equipment.

Methods

Chrome plating at home can be done using two technologies.

• The first is in a special solution.
• The second technology consists of spraying the coating using a galvanic brush.

The named methods of chrome plating of parts differ significantly from each other in terms of implementation. Thus, spraying is more labor-intensive due to the fact that the surface must be processed manually, but it has significant advantages over liquid chrome plating:

1. It allows you to control the thickness of the coating.
2. This technology is suitable for processing objects of any size.
3. Visual assessment of the quality of the coating is possible.
4. For this processing method, you do not need to dismantle the part.

Homemade device for chrome plating

It is easier to carry out chrome plating of parts yourself using the liquid method, however, the maximum dimensions of the object being processed are determined by the size of the container used. Therefore, this method is usually used for chrome plating of small parts.

DIY equipment and materials for chrome plating

To perform chrome plating of parts, you need to find a non-residential premises with effective exhaust ventilation, such as a garage. In summer, work can be carried out in an open space with a canopy or roof.

Personal protective equipment is required, namely a respirator, thick rubberized gloves and safety glasses. It is also desirable to have a rubberized factor.

The need for such protective equipment is due to the toxicity of the fumes generated during the chrome plating process due to the content of acidic vapors in them. This also determines the need to provide for the disposal of residual products.

In addition, depending on the chosen technology, specialized equipment will be required.

For do-it-yourself chrome plating using the liquid method, it is presented:

• heating element (a heating element is suitable);
• a plate or rod type anode, usually made of lead-antimony alloy 93:7, less often lead;
• a cathode in the form of a clamp for fixation on the workpiece;
• an acid-resistant thermometer or thermostat (requires an appropriate electronic circuit);
• a bracket for holding an object in a canopy;
• a direct current source with adjustable output voltage, which can be a rheostat (from 18 A for 3 l);
• wires (the cross-section is selected based on the maximum current strength, but not less than 2.5 mm2).

Homemade chrome plating machine

The main tool for spraying technology is a galvanic brush. Homemade devices are used at home. This is explained, first of all, by the very high cost of industrial analogues. In addition, they require proprietary reagents.

To make a brush you will need:

• bristle;
• a transparent cylinder made of glass, plastic, polyethylene or propylene of any size;
• lead wire;
• cover with filler hole and glued metal contact;
• lead winding;
• power supply up to 1 kW;
• current rectifier in the form of a 12 V 50 A stabilizer, which can be represented, for example, by a transformer or battery charger;
• thermometer for liquids with a range of 100°C;
• an electrolyte heating device, for example, an external heater for a glass bath or a heating element with ceramic acid protection (not necessary, but helps speed up the work).

The bristles wrapped in lead wire must be placed in a cylinder. It is closed on top with a lid with a filler hole and a glued metal contact. A lead winding is soldered to the latter. Small through holes are made in the foam membrane located above the bristles. The current rectifier is installed with a plus to the contact of the cover and a minus to the workpiece.

The operating principle of such a device is that the electrolyte filling the cylinder seeps onto the bristles through a membrane. Application to the surface to be treated is carried out by moving the bristles.

Finally, in any case, a compressor or vacuum cleaner is required to remove dust from the working surface.

Electrolyte preparation

Separately, the electrolyte manufacturing technology should be considered. This requires chromic anhydride and sulfuric acid with a specific gravity of 1.84 g/cm3. The amount of these substances should be 250 g per liter for the first and 2.5 g for the second.

If external influences on the objects being processed are not expected, a concentration of 400 g of CrO3 and 4 g of H2SO4 per liter is possible. In addition, you need distilled or boiled and settled water. You will also need three containers of different sizes.

They can be represented by a glass jar, a saucepan and an insulated glass wool or foam box with a moisture-resistant lid. Finally, you need a thermometer.

Fill the jar halfway or a little more with water at 60°C. First add chromic anhydride and stir until dissolved. Next, add sulfuric acid, adding water if necessary. After this, the chromic anhydride content should be determined by checking the density of the solution with a hydrometer. The jar with it is placed in a saucepan filled with water with a boiler, and the saucepan is installed in the box.

Then this mixture is kept under current for 3.5 hours. Its power is calculated based on the ratio of 6.5 A/1 liter. Using this formula, taking into account the required amount of electrolyte, a current source is selected, or vice versa, based on the power of the existing device, a certain amount of solution is prepared. Upon completion of exposure, the electrolyte should acquire a dark brown color.

Then it is left in a cool place for a day.

Preparatory work

Before chrome plating, the surface to be treated must be prepared by removing decorative coating (varnish, paint), corrosion, and contamination by sanding with sandpaper or a grinding machine. If the quality of these works is not carried out properly, it is possible that cavities may form on the chrome coating.

Finally, the working surfaces are degreased. Moreover, it is believed that substances traditionally used as solvents, such as gasoline and white spirit, are not suitable for this purpose.

Therefore, it is recommended to use a special solution that you can make yourself. To do this, you need to dissolve 150 g of sodium hydroxide, 50 g of soda ash, and 5 g of silicate glue in 1 liter of water.

This mixture is heated to 80 - 90 ° C and the object being treated is kept in it for 20 minutes (45 - 60 minutes in the case of complex surface topography).

In addition, the amount of preparatory work is determined by the material. So, for direct processing, as mentioned, parts made of copper, brass, and nickel are suitable. Steel objects must first be coated with these metals.

Plastic surfaces are treated with graphite-containing varnish or graphite powder and copper is applied electrolytically at 0.7 A/dm2.

The electrolyte is prepared by dissolving 150 g of concentrated sulfuric acid, 35 g of copper sulfate, and 10 g of ethyl alcohol per liter of water. After processing, the item is washed and dried.

Finally, immediately before chrome plating, steel and cast iron surfaces are subjected to pickling for up to 1.5 minutes at a current density of 24 - 40 A/dm2 in hydrochloric acid.

Implementation

In the case of using liquid chrome plating technology, work begins with heating the electrolyte to 52±2°C. After the anode, the object being processed is placed in it and it is expected to be heated to the same temperature. It must be taken into account that the uniformity of the coating is determined by the correct location of the object and the anode.

After this, attach the cathode and apply current (optimal density - 50 - 55 A/dm2), keeping the part like this for 20 minutes (holding time is determined visually depending on the characteristics of the item and can be 2 - 3 hours).

In any case, the thickness of the coating is determined by the current density and the duration of exposure.

Part restored by chrome plating at home

Upon completion, the item is washed and placed in a drying cabinet for 2.5 - 3 hours in order to increase the adhesion of the coating to the surface and its hardness.

When performing chrome plating for the first time, it is advisable to pre-treat the prototype.

Possible defects

Failure to comply with the technology leads to the formation of various defects in the chromium layer. To avoid this, you need to know the main reasons:

• non-compliance with temperature conditions;
• incorrect concentrations of solution elements;
• poor preparation of the working surface;
• violation of current supply parameters;
• the presence of foreign particles and impurities.

Due to the above reasons, defects such as low shine or its absence, pitting, brittle sediment, roughness, marks, veil, rough and dark spots, burnt, flaking, cracks, stripes, bubbles, peeling, missing fragments, dark gray color, appear. low deposition rate and dissipation ability of the electrolyte, black or brown film on the anodes.

Source: https://stankiexpert.ru/spravochnik/materialovedenie/khromirovaniye-svoimi-rukami.html

How to chrome plating metal at home - Metalworker's Guide

Chrome plating of parts is one of the most attractive types of coatings used in car tuning. It gives the products a shiny silver look and also protects the metal from corrosion. Only neat and scrupulous people can perform high-quality chrome plating at home.

In this article you will find detailed instructions on how to chrome plating parts at home with your own hands.

Before you begin preparatory work on chrome plating parts at home, you should compare the benefits of this undertaking:

1. If there is a metalworking facility nearby, it likely has an electroplating area. You can place an order for little money, and finished products can be received in a couple of hours or days (depending on the load on the chrome plating line).
2. If there is no such production in the vicinity, you will have to remember some sections of chemistry and physics, stock up on chemicals and special equipment, and chrome-plate the parts yourself.

Equipment and materials for do-it-yourself chrome plating of parts

To apply a chrome layer to metal parts, you will need the following equipment:

• bathtub made of plastic or polypropylene;
• a rectifier capable of delivering voltage up to 12 volts and current up to 50 amperes;
• acid-resistant heater for heating the electrolyte;
• thermometer with a measurement limit of 0-100 degrees.

The parameters and dimensions of certain types of equipment used for chrome plating at home are determined by the size and number of products being processed.

In order to save money, you should select the minimum dimensions of the bath into which the parts will be immersed. The bath can be made from a plastic bucket or other rectangular container. To prevent the solution from evaporating during long-term storage, it is necessary to provide a sealed lid or container for draining.

A car battery charger can be used as a rectifier (it is suitable for chrome plating small parts).

Chromium plating of parts will occur in an electrolyte, which consists of:

• distilled water (atmospheric water or tap water with a low salt content is suitable);
• chromic anhydride (CrO3) with a concentration of 220-250 g/l;
• sulfuric acid (H2SO4) with a concentration of 2.2-2.5 g/l.

In addition to these components, you will also need materials such as: hydrochloric acid (HCl), acetone or solvent 646, and clean sheet lead.

The procedure for chrome plating parts with your own hands

Protective and decorative chrome coating can be applied directly only to metals such as copper, brass or nickel.

To independently perform chrome plating on steel parts, a copper, brass or nickel underlayer is first applied to them. This requires an appropriate electrolyte and technology:

1. Products to be chrome-plated are pre-polished and degreased with acetone.
2. After drying, the surface is activated in a solution of hydrochloric acid (100 g/l). Treatment time depends on the condition of the surface (5-20 minutes).
3. The parts are washed in clean water and immersed in a chrome plating bath. To do this, a pendant is made of copper wire or rod. The negative wire from the rectifier is supplied to the suspension with parts. Nearby, a lead anode is attached to a copper rod, to which the “plus” is supplied.
4. After 20-40 minutes, the parts are removed from the bath and washed in clean water. After drying, the chrome layer can be polished to give the surface a mirror shine.

Preparing the electrolyte is not difficult: first, chromic anhydride is dissolved in water, and then sulfuric acid is added in a thin stream.

• Before loading the first batch of parts, it is necessary to hang any clean metal plate and work the electrolyte for 0.5-1 hour. When the color of the solution turns from bright red to burgundy, you can begin chrome plating the parts.
• The chrome plating solution should be heated to 45 degrees.
• The current strength is set depending on the surface area of ​​the parts being coated. To process 1 sq. dm. current required is 15-25 amperes.

Main defects and removal of low-quality chrome plating

Receiving a defective coating should not frighten a novice electroplater. A poor-quality layer of chromium can be removed in a solution of hydrochloric acid (100-200 g/l). After this, the parts are washed in water, and the chrome plating process can be repeated.

Most often there are several main defects:

1. Peeling of chrome film . The main reason is poor adhesion due to insufficient degreasing. After removing the coating, the surface is cleaned and reactivated again.
2. Chromium growths (dendrites) on sharp edges and corners. This defect indicates a high current density on sharp edges. If possible, it is better to round the edges or install screens in problem areas.
3. Matte finish . To achieve shine, it is necessary to increase the temperature of the solution, reduce the current, or add chromic anhydride.

: galvanic chrome plating technology

Source: https://ssk2121.com/kak-hromirovat-metall-v-domashnih-usloviyah/

How to chrome plating metal at home - Metals, equipment, instructions

Protective and decorative coating of various types of products with a thin layer of metal is widely used in industry. For this, chromium or nickel is usually used, forming not only a durable and chemically inert, but also a very decorative, shiny film.

The industrial technology of chrome and nickel plating is quite complex and energy-consuming, but the resulting coating lasts for several decades without the slightest change in appearance.

But situations often arise when it is necessary to cover parts and products with a decorative layer that were not intended by the manufacturer for metallization. For example, you want to tune your car or motorcycle, change the interior of your apartment in an ultra-modern style, or create a unique work of art, where some areas or fragments of the sculpture should be chrome-plated.

Is it possible to chrome a surface without resorting to complex industrial technologies?

The answer will be yes. There are several ways to metallize products with chromium or other metals to obtain a durable mirror coating. Moreover, products of any configuration can be chromed - from flat, convex or concave, to those with a complex relief texture.

Chrome plating methods

There are four chrome plating methods used in industry:

• vacuum deposition;
• diffusion at high temperatures;
• electroplating;
• chemical metallization.

The first two methods are the most effective, but require sophisticated equipment and high energy costs. It is impossible to create conditions for vacuum deposition or diffusion in a home workshop. Therefore, we will not consider this method of chrome plating.

Galvanic chrome plating method

This is a relatively simple method of applying chromium metal to the surface of a part made of conductive material - steel, cast iron, copper, brass. Plastic, wood and other dielectrics can also be chromed using this method, but this is very difficult and expensive to do.

Even conductive steel and cast iron, when chrome-plated by galvanic method, must first be coated with brass, copper or nickel. This must be done so that the chromium layer adheres firmly to the surface. To complete the process, you need to build a small galvanic installation powered by a DC source and stock up on some reagents:

• sulfuric acid;
• chromium anhydride CrO3;
• sodium hydroxide;
• soda ash.

We will not describe the details of the process. Suffice it to say that it requires strict adherence to the temperature regime for 5–8 hours, maintaining a constant concentration of salts in the electrolyte solution and the absence of changes in current strength. At home, achieving the required accuracy of all parameters is very difficult.

Chrome plating using chemical metallization

The chemical metallization method is most suitable for chrome plating parts at home. There are also special reagents here, but no other complex equipment is required except a spray gun and a compressor.

In many ways, the chrome plating process is reminiscent of conventional painting of products with enamel or acrylic colored varnish, only the result is different. Instead of a polymer protective film, a thin (0.075 - 0.0) is formed on the surface.

25 mm) a metal layer with a mirror shine, not inferior in physical and chemical characteristics to vacuum deposition.

There are two methods of chemical metallization:

• recovery of chromium from salts during chemical reactions;
• coating with specially selected chemicals, as a result of the interaction of which a durable monomolecular layer of silver or other metal is deposited on the surface.

To work with chromium salts, you will need sodium hyposophyte, chromyl fluoride, chromium phosphate, chromium chloride or acetate, caustic soda, acetic acid and other chemicals.

Most of them are unsafe for health, some are very poisonous. If you intend to chrome parts using this method, you need to repeat the chemistry course.

Even with carefully written instructions, it is difficult to achieve the desired result.

Source: https://spb-metalloobrabotka.com/kak-hromirovat-metall-v-domashnih-usloviyah/

Do-it-yourself chrome plating: tips and tricks

In the modern world, almost everything can be made with your own hands. The stores sell special materials, equipment, and most importantly, you can easily find information to help you learn new skills. Every year, car enthusiasts spend huge sums of money on servicing and caring for their cars.

To eliminate some financial costs, the driver can independently carry out chrome plating at home. This will minimize visits to a car service center, and the procedure itself is quite interesting. Metal and plastic materials and parts are subject to chrome plating.

Thanks to this procedure, the car will look more attractive.

Chrome plating at home

Briefly about chrome plating

Chrome plating refers to the process of applying chromium to surfaces made of metal and plastic for the purpose of decoration or to prevent corrosion. The procedure also makes it possible to increase the surface hardness. It should be noted that the reagents used in chrome plating are as toxic as the waste from the process, so you need to work very carefully and in special clothing, using protective equipment.

Methods for chrome plating parts

Nowadays, there are many types of chrome plating. There are three main types of process:

• Galvanic.
• Chemical.
• Chrome plating - the essence of the method is to apply a thin layer of gold metal to the surface, which prevents corrosion and gives a magnificent appearance to the parts. After processing, the material becomes dense and wear-resistant.

To carry out chrome plating of parts at home, as a rule, a chemical method is used. It is very important to remember the need to follow safety precautions.

Galvanic chrome plating method

Galvanic method

The essence of this method is the unusual application of chromium using electric current. As a result of this effect, the material acquires completely unique properties: the surface thickens, resistance to rust increases, and the appearance becomes more attractive. During operation, the metallic substance is applied in three layers.

Chemical method

The method consists of a chemical reaction that occurs between reagents. It is recommended to apply a thin layer of copper before chrome treatment. To coat the surface with chromium, it is necessary to use chromium fluoride, sodium hypophosphate, sodium citrate, chilled acetic acid, sodium hydroxide solution and distilled water.

Chrome plating technologies

In order for the product to be wear-resistant, attractive and as resistant to external factors as possible, it is necessary to follow chrome plating technology. A person who has never performed such a procedure in his life asks the question: “how to chrome parts?”

Chemical chrome plating method

The process begins with the preparation of a wooden box: it is covered with fiberglass and a thermos is made, insulated with mineral wool (or sand). The glass container is placed in a plastic basin. Next, you need to attach the “crocodiles” to the negative (they act as a cathode), and then secure the anode. To ensure uniform application of the coating, a part fixer is installed.

Do-it-yourself chrome plating at home is carried out a day after preparing the mixture. The temperature should be within 50 degrees. After completion of work, the parts must be cleaned with water and dried.

Preparation of the workplace

Do-it-yourself chrome plating at home requires serious preparation of the workplace. As noted above, this procedure is toxic and good ventilation is mandatory. In addition, the workplace must ensure human safety.

Before starting work, you must prepare the surface, all the required tools and materials, and also put on special clothing. A thick apron, rubber gloves, safety glasses and a respirator are required.

Do-it-yourself chrome plating at home

Equipment

When starting work, the master must have all the necessary materials and equipment at hand. These include:

• glass containers;
• thermal insulation products;
• fiberglass;
• plastic bucket or basin;
• wooden box;
• "crocodiles";
• heating element;
• fixer for parts;
• anodes: rod and plate.

Having completed the preparatory stage, the master can begin preparing the mixture - electrolyte.

Home electroplating installation

Source: https://mensdrive.ru/pokraska-avtomobilja/hromirovanie-v-domashnih-uslovijah

Chemical chrome plating: technology and implementation at home

To improve the characteristics of products for various purposes, many methods are used, one of which is chemical chromium plating. This technology can significantly improve both the decorative characteristics of the product and its mechanical properties - strength and wear resistance.

This is what the wheel cap looks like after chemical chrome coating and subsequent polishing

The essence of technology

The essence of chrome plating, performed using any technology, is that a layer of chromium is applied to the surface being treated, which can significantly improve both the decorative and mechanical properties of the part. The chrome coating gives the product the following qualities:

• exceptional decorative characteristics;
• highly resistant to corrosion;
• heat resistance;
• wear resistance;
• more technologically advanced electromagnetic and mechanical properties.

Industrial chemical chromium plating line

The most popular methods by which a layer of chromium is applied to the surface being treated are galvanic and diffusion.

In contrast, chromium plating, performed chemically, does not require the use of special equipment and allows you to obtain high-quality, uniform and reliable coatings even on products with complex shapes.

Chemical metallization (in particular, chrome plating) is performed using a special aqueous solution heated to a certain temperature.

The essence of chemical chrome plating is that chromium deposited on the surface being treated is reduced from a solution of its salts. This reduction reaction is made possible due to the fact that the solution for chemical chromium plating contains sodium hypophosphite. The presence of this particular substance in the solution is the main difference between chemical chromium plating and a similar process performed using an electrolytic solution.

Sodium hypophosphite - colorless crystals used for chemical chromium plating mainly of metal products, sometimes also of plastics

After chemical chrome plating, the finished coating turns out matte, which is clearly visible even from the video of this process. To give this coating a characteristic chrome shine, the product must be further polished.

Meanwhile, the chrome layer obtained using this technology, although not highly decorative when compared with diffusion and electrolytic coatings, has higher quality and reliability.

In particular, this coating contains phosphorus, which gives it strength and hardness.

Preparation for the procedure

Due to its simplicity, chemical chrome plating does not require significant financial costs. It is not difficult to perform chrome plating at home using this technology; to do this, it is enough to carefully study the theoretical material and watch the corresponding video.

However, it should be borne in mind that the chemicals used for chrome plating using this technology emit toxic fumes that are dangerous to human health, so safety regulations must be strictly followed.

During the chemical chrome plating process, contact of solutions with unprotected areas of the body should be avoided.

Such chrome plating at home should only be carried out in non-residential premises in which effective ventilation is organized. In addition, it is necessary to use personal safety equipment:

• a respirator that protects the respiratory system;
• glasses for eye protection;
• gloves, clothing and shoes that protect the skin;
• oilcloth apron.

Solutions for chrome plating, performed using chemical technology, as well as for carrying out all auxiliary technological operations, are prepared on the basis of distilled water. The reagents used in this case must be marked with the letter “C”, which indicates their chemical purity. The containers in which working solutions are prepared can only be glass or enamel.

Reagents for chemical chromium plating

Before chemical chrome plating, the surface of the product should be thoroughly cleaned and degreased. The reliability and quality of chrome plating are largely determined by the thoroughness of these procedures.

If the surface to be treated is sufficiently dirty and there are remnants of the old coating or traces of corrosion on it, then it is treated using a sandblasting machine or emery cloth, achieving a metallic shine. Preliminary grinding and polishing of the product allows you to create a more reliable and high-quality chrome coating.

After performing these technological procedures, the surface to be treated is degreased using an aqueous solution containing the following components:

1. caustic soda – 100–150 g/l;
2. sodium carbonate – 40–50 g/l;
3. liquid glass – 3–5 g/l.

Washing and degreasing parts before chrome plating

To perform degreasing, the resulting mixture is heated to 60–100° and only after that the product being treated is lowered into it. Depending on the degree of surface contamination, the product is kept in a heated solution from a quarter of an hour to 60 minutes. To improve the adhesion of chromium to the surface being treated, you can additionally perform pickling, which is carried out in a solution of hydrochloric and sulfuric acids.

It should be borne in mind that the cleaner and smoother the surface to which it is applied, the more durable the chrome coating will be.

If it is necessary to perform chemical chromium plating on aluminum, a product made of this metal is also subjected to zincate treatment, after which it is washed. Before chemical chrome plating of steel alloy parts, a layer of copper is first applied to their surface. For this, an aqueous solution is used, including the following components:

1. copper sulfate – 50 g/l;
2. concentrated sulfuric acid – 5–8 g/l.

The operating temperature of such a solution, in which the product is kept for several seconds (5–10), should be 15–25°. After exposure to the copper plating solution, the product is washed with water and dried. If the steel after copper plating is additionally coated with a nickel layer, the thickness of which will be about 1 micrometer, then the chrome plating performed in the future will be of higher quality.

Preparation of working solutions

Solutions for chemical chrome plating must be prepared in the following sequence.

1. All chemicals used, except sodium hypophosphite, are mixed or dissolved in water.
2. The resulting solution is heated to operating temperature.
3. Sodium hypophosphite is added to the solution heated to operating temperature.

The product that needs to be chrome-plated is suspended in the prepared and heated solution and kept in it for 5–8 hours. The holding time depends on the required thickness of the chromium layer. To remove residual chemical reagents from the surface of the newly applied coating, the treated product is boiled in water for half an hour. A video on this topic allows you to study the chemical chrome plating procedure in more detail.

Products on the surface of which a layer of chromium is applied are subjected to heat treatment, which promotes low-temperature diffusion, and therefore improves the adhesion of the applied layer to the base metal. Heat treatment is performed at a temperature of 400°. In such conditions, the product is kept for an hour.

Oven for drying and heat treatment of chrome-plated products

Certain steel products, such as knives, fishhooks, springs, etc., may lose their hardness after heat treatment, so they are kept at a temperature of 270–300° for three hours. Heat treatment after chemical chrome plating, the procedure for which can also be found in the corresponding video, allows you to increase the hardness of the applied coating.

The finished chrome coating, after drying the product to which it is applied, has a grayish matte coating. To give chrome its characteristic shine, the surface of the part is polished.

Chemical reagents

For chemical chromium plating, several basic solutions are used, which are divided into acidic (pH 4–6.5) and alkaline (pH greater than 6.5). The chemical compositions of such solutions are given below.

Chemical composition of solutions for chrome plating

And in conclusion, a short video about the equipment and reagents used in chemical chrome plating.

Source: http://met-all.org/obrabotka/himicheskaya/himicheskoe-hromirovanie-domashnih-usloviyah-video-tehnologiya.html

How to do chrome plating at home? 3 technologies for coating parts with chrome - Tuning and repair

The car and motorcycle have long ceased to be just a means of transportation. Automakers are in pursuit of beauty, trying to overtake competitors, and this is not without reason.

The aesthetics of the car’s appearance have become equal to the technical characteristics, so the most unique design elements are used. Chrome plating is one of the popular types of transformation of various automobile parts, and now such a change is done in almost every service station.

The only problem is the high price, so the question often arises of how to do chrome plating yourself.

Features of chrome plating

Although chrome plating can instantly change the appearance of a motorcycle or car, this procedure is quite complex and dangerous. This is due to the use of a special galvanic bath and serious reagents that can be harmful to health if the instructions are not followed.

All chemical and physical transformations must occur under the strict supervision of a specialist, even if the procedure is carried out at home. Therefore, it is important to familiarize yourself with the entire theoretical basis before starting.

Since chrome plating metal at home became a trend, a lot of different methods have appeared.

Chromium deposition is a physical and chemical process that occurs after the part is treated in a galvanic bath. A thin layer of metallic chrome is applied to the product, which hardens almost instantly.

As a result, it is easy to obtain a body part with a shiny surface and resistance to external damage.

Chrome plating significantly enhances the physical, chemical and decorative characteristics, so it is often used on the lower parts of the vehicle that are exposed to the external environment.

Preparing the installation for painting

Chrome plating of plastic at home involves the use of a special galvanic bath in which chemical and physical reactions take place. This device consists of several parts, so it will not be difficult to assemble it yourself.

The galvanic bath consists of the following elements:

1. The container is selected taking into account the volume of the container for chrome plating.
2. An ordinary three-liter glass jar is most often used as a container.
3. For the electrolysis process to proceed efficiently, a wooden box with insulated walls is required. In fact, this part should resemble a thermos in its characteristics. You can create a wooden box that will retain heat if you use glass wool, mineral wool, fiberglass or sand as insulation.
4. You will need to constantly measure the temperature, so it is best to have a contact thermometer and attach it to the installation, automating the technological process.
5. The heating element is necessary for heating and maintaining a constant temperature. The power of the device is selected in accordance with the requirements and volumes of the bath.
6. A sealed lid is made from a wooden board or plywood.
7. During the chrome plating process, the product being processed is connected to a source of electric current at the negative contact, so wires are required. The anode is immersed in an electrolytic solution and connected to the positive contact. The wire that will be connected directly to the workpiece is best equipped with a crocodile clip for easy connection.

Additionally, you will need to think over a system similar to a conventional tap. Such a device is necessary to carefully and evenly lower the part into the galvanic bath. This is the only way to achieve an even layer of chrome without defects.

Selecting a power source

Parts are coated with a layer of chrome when using direct current. In specialized services, special DC power supplies are installed for this purpose. A homemade assembly of a device for chrome plating must meet similar parameters. Basic requirements include:

Source: https://tuningpostavka.ru/to/kak-provesti-hromirovanie-v-domashnih-usloviyah-3-tehnologii-pokrytiya-detalej-hromom.html

Review of methods for chrome plating products at home - let’s look at it carefully

Having mastered the technique of chrome plating with your own hands at home, you can not only give a spectacular look to your motorcycle or car. But also to make stylish modern things - handles for cabinets or doors, stands, fastening elements for cornices, sconces, flowerpots, which will decorate the interior with their noble shine.

The need for chrome plating

Metal chrome plating refers to the process of metallization with chromium to improve the surface properties and characteristics of elements. During chrome plating, various steel surfaces are diffusely saturated with chromium. Chromium treatment is also acceptable for ABC plastic, aluminum, brass, and silumin.

Chrome plating gives the parts a more beautiful appearance and improves their appearance. The chrome layer provides the original metallic color; car alloy wheels, headlight reflectors, motorcycle parts, souvenirs or home furnishings begin to look more aesthetically pleasing.

Other advantages of chrome plating:

1. Protection. Applying a layer of chromium helps to increase the resistance of products to temperature changes, increases corrosion and erosion resistance, and reduces susceptibility to mechanical damage. The parts become super-hard (950 – 1100 units on the corresponding scale), therefore they react less to chemical damage and do not oxidize.
2. Recovery. The service life of the base is significantly increased, large and small parts become very resistant to wear. At a low level of wear, chrome plating completely restores the product (for example, cracks up to 1 mm deep in shafts and bushings are closed).
3. Reflective qualities. Some elements of the car are chromed to increase visibility in the dark. Reflection improves the decorative qualities of equipment.
4. Purity. Chrome plating of products will protect them from dirt and dust, as it prevents the adhesion of various contaminants.

Compared to nickel plating, chrome plating has fewer disadvantages: the cost of services is lower, the coating will be harder and more durable. The use of nickel benefits only in terms of decorative qualities, since the surface becomes even more aesthetically pleasing.

: Methods for bluing weapons: let’s look at them point by point

Scope of application of chrome plating

It is difficult to fully describe all areas and areas where technology is used. Chrome plating is indispensable in the furniture industry; chrome is used to process fittings and finishing elements. The technique is popular in the production of plumbing fixtures - the element is applied to the external and internal surfaces of pipes, bathtubs, sinks, and used to cover handles and faucets.

In the automotive industry, the technology is used to manufacture:

• overlays and reflectors;
• aluminum wheels;
• body elements;
• pistons;
• compression rings;
• rollers and axles.

Chrome plating is used in the production of rubber, plastics (chrome is applied to calender rolls and molds), and various measuring instruments. The material covers those elements that rub strongly against each other to increase their wear resistance.

Compound

The proportional ratio of components is recommended as follows (in g/l of water): chromic anhydride CrO3 - 250, sulfuric acid H2SO4 - 2.5.

Cooking method

1. Fill the container more than half full with water. It is best if it is distilled. If ordinary water is used (from a water supply system, well, etc.), then it should first be boiled and allowed to settle. For high-quality electrolyte preparation, water must be heated to at least 60 ºС.
2. Add the calculated amount of CrO3, then stir thoroughly until completely dissolved.
3. Add water to the required volume.
4. Add H2SO4 and mix everything again. It should be taken into account that acid comes in different concentrations, so the data is given for a specific density of 1.84.
5. After this, the electrolyte is “worked through” for about 3.5 hours, that is, current is passed through it. Its strength is calculated as follows - for each liter approximately 6.5 A. Based on this, when determining the volume of the prepared solution, you need to focus on the capabilities of the existing power source. If everything is done correctly, the electrolyte will turn dark brown.
6. The prepared solution should be allowed to settle (in a cool room, at least 24 hours).

Part preparation

It makes no sense to say that both the quality of chrome plating and its durability depend on this work. But first the electrolyte must be brought into a “working” state. It is heated (enough to 50 - 60 ºС). It can be used within 3 hours. This time is quite enough to carry out preparatory processing of the samples.

Cleaning

Everything is removed from the surface - dirt, paint, rust. The necessary devices and techniques are determined based on the specifics of the part and the degree of its “contamination,” since sometimes “sandpaper” alone is not enough. The main thing is to remove all existing foreign layers, down to the very “base”.

Degreasing

Limiting yourself to only treating the surface with gasoline, white spirit or something similar means getting poor quality chrome plating. For effective degreasing, a special solution is prepared. There are more than enough recipes, so we’ll give one as an example.

All weight indicators of ingredients are in “grams”, based on 1 liter of water.

• Caustic soda – 150.
• Glue (silicate) – 5.
• Soda ash – 50.

The part is kept in a heated solution (80 - 90 ºС) for at least 20 minutes. This time can be increased to 1 hour, depending on the complexity of the “relief” of the surface, the degree of its cleaning, and so on.

Chrome plating

Experts advise maintaining the electrolyte temperature at 53±2 ºС during operation. The part is placed in the solution, and voltage is applied after a certain delay. This is necessary so that the temperatures of the sample and electrolyte are equalized.

After this, the part is removed and subjected to heat treatment (for example, in a drying oven) for at least 2.5 hours.

Before you start “mass” chrome plating of parts, you need to make sure that everything is done correctly at all stages of “production”. For this purpose, a test, pre-prepared sample is first processed, and then the quality of the coating is determined. There are more than enough signs of bad chrome plating, so we will focus on the most typical ones.

Room

If you want to chrome-plate the bumper and wheel rims, then the balcony is clearly not enough. You will need a separate, spacious room.

Preparatory activities

Firstly, in order to polish metal well, you need to have certain skills.

Secondly, how many can boast of knowledge of chemistry, in particular, the specifics of the electrolysis process? Who can choose the correct proportion of all ingredients? But accuracy is the key to quality.

Thirdly, where can I get the necessary materials? You can still buy acid, but what about anhydride? This substance is sold only to legal entities, and you won’t be able to go in and buy it “just like that”, like “green stuff” or a loaf of bread. Therefore, you will have to search through your friends. It would be good if there were such people. By the way, H2SO4 must be PURE, and not the kind that is sold for batteries.

Fourthly, will the “amateur” master be able to withstand the required “current” mode while preparing the solution?

If at least one of the preparation points is not completed with proper accuracy, everything else is “monkey’s” work.