Chrome Replacement
The End of Hard Chrome Is Already Here
Hexavalent chromium is being phased out globally. Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) restrictions are tightening. OEM mandates are accelerating. The question isn't whether to transition — it's whether you'll be ready in time.
What's Actually Being Banned — and When
The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has placed hexavalent chromium compounds on Annex XIV of REACH. In April 2025, the European Commission requested that ECHA move these compounds to Annex XVII (restriction), signaling a shift from temporary authorization to broad restriction and eventual ban.
| When | Milestone |
|---|---|
| Sept 2024 | Original sunset dates for strontium chromate, chromium trioxide |
| April 2025 | EC requests Annex XVII restriction (broad ban) |
| June–Dec 2025 | Public consultation on restriction proposal — completed |
| June 2026 | Risk Assessment Committee (RAC) opinion published; Socio-Economic Analysis Committee (SEAC) adopted a draft opinion (11 June) |
| 17 June–17 August 2026 | SEAC draft consultation — closed |
| November 2026 | Expected SEAC final opinion |
| After SEAC | EC formal decision still pending — restriction not yet decided |
| Mid-2028 | Full compliance deadlines for most aerospace/energy uses |
Why HVOF Coatings Outperform Chrome
| Parameter | HVOF WC-10Co-4Cr | Hard Chrome |
|---|---|---|
| Hardness | >1000 HV300 | 850-1000 HV |
| Corrosion (salt spray) | >500 hours | ~50 hours |
| Abrasion (Taber Wear Index (TWI)) | 4–5× | Baseline |
| ESG Status | Compliant | Restricted |
Solving the Internal Diameter Gap
One reason chrome has persisted is geometry: hard chrome plating can reach internal surfaces that legacy HVOF systems cannot. This is precisely the gap Spraywerx solves. ID-Nova enables HVOF-quality coatings on internal diameters as small as 2.5".
- Coating trials on your actual components
- Mini-Nova: Coats IDs ≥2.5" (63.5 mm)
- ID-Nova MK-7: Coats IDs ≥4.0" (101 mm)
- Pulsar Rotation System: For fixed parts that can't be rotated
- Full HVOF performance: >1000 HV300, <1% porosity
The Window for Qualification Is Closing
Every month of delay reduces your transition options. Programs that start qualification now will be ready when restrictions take effect.
Book a prototyping discussion