Case Studies

Trivalent Chromate Coatings

Overview:

A major automotive supplier had to convert its hexavalent olive drab coating to a trivalent black chromate for its zinc-
alloy plating. Greystone offered zinc-alloy plating with trivalent black chromate that provided the necessary salt-spray
performance.

Challenge:

Typically, trivalent chromates have had difficulty meeting corrosion protection requirements. The new "ELV" directive
implemented by the European community on automakers has severely tested electroplaters and chemical suppliers
in the elimination of hexavalent chromates in the zinc passivation process. Naturally occurring 'contaminants' within
the plating process drag-out from one tank to the other, and as these 'contaminant' levels rise within the chromate
bath, the corrosion protection ability of the chemistry falters.

Approach:

Greystone has been using trivalent chromates for over 5 years working very closely as a Beta-site for a leading
chemical supplier. These years of experience has proven very valuable to understanding the complexities to trivalent
chromate applications, process parameters and overall performance with respect to corrosion protection and periodic
salt-spray testing. Through statistical process control, upper and lower control limits were established on various
process chemistry components and were verified with each production run. With consistent & regularly-monitored
laboratory chemical analysis, Greystone is able to ensure optimum trivalent chromate application & performance with
each production run.

Result:

Greystone's experience using trivalent chromates provided a solid and predictable transition to hex-free chromate
plating from hexavalent chemistry. The customer was able to confidently provide samples with superior corrosion to
their end customer to ensure a smooth transition from hexavalent to trivalent chromate chemistry.