Hi Jimmy,
There are probably several methods to achieve chrome plating with desirable results and different materials. If you want to chrome the entire frame, you will have to wait until it is completely built. Otherwise, chroming individual frame components can be completed, but correct me if I am wrong, I think that lower temp welding (?silver solder?) must be used on individual chromed components.
Small parts that contain fine lettering and details require a different composition of chrome than materials used to chrome a wheel on a car. The durability of the chrome depends on the composition/compatibility of the chrome and the steel frame, how clean was the original surface from rust and paint, how long the frame was submerged in the chrome solution, and how many application coats of chrome were placed on the frame.
Essentially, the frame is lowered into a acid vat to clean off contaminants, cleaned thoroughly to the base metal (if done correctly), and then dipped for a period time in the chromium solution vat where electrolysis causes the chrome to permanently adhere to the base metal.
Please note that multiple chrome coats can add much additional weight to the frame, depending on the materials used and how they are applied. Care must be taken to make sure that water drain holes in the frame/fork are not blocked after chroming and that the chrome job is completed on the outside and not to include the inside of the frame. Be aware that some chrome plating shops seem to want to dip the entire frame without covering BB openings, head tubes, seat tubes etc. Make sure these are covered because you do not want to chrome the exterior and interior of the tubes and add weight!
Chrome plating an entire bike frame is not a cheap process because the EPA heavily regulates the use of toxic chemicals used in the chroming process which causes the plater higher costs to do business to ensure worker safety. Caution: Once the chrome is on and if you are not satisfied, it is a real "bear" to remove, so get the quote in writing if possible from the chrome company in advance!
I do not have specific recommendation on types or brands of chrome materials to use, but I go to a experienced local chrome plating shop that re-plates vintage car parts and have seen excellent results. Do any frame builders have recommendations that can contribute to this discussion?
Regards, Steve Neago "Slightly sunburned and smiling in sunny Cincinnati, OH"
> I am in the process of having a custom retro frame built
> with nervex pro lugs and wanted to know from the
> builders on the list what there thoughts of having the
> complete frameset chrome plated where?Who to send it to
> to have plated or another process to acheive the same
> effect and frame longevity etc from plating it?
> Jimmy Katynski Madison Hts Mich.