Originally Posted by
J T CUNNINGHAM
The hydrogen embrittlement is the reason for the 'baking-out', process after plating.
Also may be of interest:
(1) The last, and final step (copper/nickel/chrome) is only about 5 microns thick.
(2) contrary to popular belief, plating is porous, therefor a good protectant is a 'must'. (eg wax or oil)
Regards<
J T
Agreed, 100%. But this a step that is often compromised by platers depending on what they used to plating. Different strengths and hardnesses of steels demand different baking cycles, and even then, baking is still not a guarantee against hydrogen embrittlement, it only reduces the risk.
Your note on protectants is very sound. The plating is still porous, particualrly the chromium.
My bottom line is that plating of frames should be kept to a minimum. And if you are considering having a frame chromium plated, ensure that it is done by someone who has experience with bicycle frames.