materials-finishes

Satin Black Chrome (US10BC) Electroplating: Anti-Reflective Optical Properties

Engineering Overview: Technical breakdown of Satin Black Chrome (US10BC) electroplating on brass lock cylinders, evaluating optical non-reflection and wear life.

Technical & Engineering Specifications

Hardness 800 HV Micro-Hardness
Substrate Solid Extruded H59 Brass
Salt Spray ASTM B117 360 Hours
Finish Standard Satin Black Chrome (US10BC / BHMA 622)
Layer Composition Multi-Layer Nickel (15um) + Black Chrome (0.8um)

Military & Minimalist Black Plating

Satin Black Chrome (BHMA 622 / US10BC) delivers a deep metallic matte-black finish with $<5%$ specular reflectivity.

Multi-Layer Galvanic Process

  1. Base Plating: 15 μm semi-bright nickel for corrosion barrier.
  2. Black Chrome Strike: Electrodeposited black chromium-oxide matrix (0.5–1.0 μm) containing metallic chromium and chromium oxides.
  3. Hardness: Delivers 750 to 850 HV hardness, superior to painted coatings.

Frequently Asked Engineering & Selection Questions

Q1: What is the difference between black chrome and black paint?

Black chrome is a hard electroplated metallic chromium-oxide layer (800 HV) that cannot peel, chip, or flake like surface paints.