How are chrome-plated wheels made?
2 Answers
The steps to make chrome-plated wheels are: 1. Pre-plating inspection of the wheel; 2. Paint stripping treatment of the wheel; 3. Polishing and grinding of the wheel; 4. Cleaning and soaking of the wheel; 5. Applying primer to the wheel; 6. Chrome plating of the wheel; 7. Applying topcoat; 8. Salt spray test. The chrome plating process for wheels is divided into three methods: wheel spray plating, wheel electroplating, and wheel vacuum plating. The wheel hub is the central part of the wheel, mounted on the axle to support the tire, with a cylindrical shape, generally equipped with bearings to avoid friction. Automotive wheel hubs mainly include steel wheel hubs, alloy material wheel hubs, and composite material wheel hubs. Wheel hubs vary widely based on diameter, width, forming method, and material.
I've witnessed the manufacturing process of chrome-plated wheels, which starts with an aluminum alloy wheel base. The first step involves thorough cleaning to remove grease and dirt, typically using acid pickling or alkaline cleaning solutions to ensure a smooth surface. Then, it moves into the electroplating tank—first nickel plating as the base layer to enhance adhesion, followed by chrome plating to create that shiny surface, a step performed in a controlled environment with precise current and timing. Afterwards, there's meticulous polishing, using machines to achieve a mirror-like finish, sometimes with an additional protective coating to prevent oxidation. The entire process takes several hours to a day, with high per-wheel costs due to strict material requirements, including eco-friendly treatment of electroplating wastewater. In daily use, chrome-plated wheels look stunning but are prone to scratches. I recommend choosing products from reputable manufacturers to ensure corrosion resistance and lasting shine, avoiding cheap options that may compromise quality from small workshops.
