Frequently, but not always the acid solution used as part of the deplating process is assisted with an electrical current. Different acids are used to remove chrome and the nickel layers.

Prior to copper plating, even if the original part is polished first, acid is used to clean and prepare the surface, followed by comprehensive rinsing. The copper is applied, part rinsed, then the part is polished as necessary. A second layer of copper may be applied and buffed again for acceptable appearance. Then nickel, which is the tie layer between the copper and the chrome. Chrome gets applied with anodes strategically placed for uniform thickness. (the inside of a fork under the crown, the back side of a bottom bracket especially near the chain stay bridge are examples of regions where the lack of a well placed anode will result in a poor chrome layer, rough surface and or a bear to buff out) Contaminated tanks can leave a "starburst" on a part and or a "seed" that attaches itself to a square edge, requiring stripping the part again and a redo.

A bicycle painter who has subcontracted a number of chrome jobs should have a good relationship with their vendor. Some will do the buffing initially themselves. You will pay for that effort. One reason restoring a Cinelli Supercorsa well is expensive.