1. Minor Scratches
Toothpaste Repair: Use a soft cloth dipped in abrasive toothpaste and rub in the direction of the scratch for 1-2 minutes. This can reduce superficial scratches.
Polishing Paste Repair: Use a #1200 grit sandpaper with metal polishing paste. Suitable for non-working surfaces or light guide systems.
2. Moderate Scratches
Brush Plating: For deeper scratches, brush plating is used to fill the surface with a localized coating. Polishing is required after the repair. This method is suitable for quick on-site repairs.
Chemical Polishing: Soak or apply a specific solvent (such as chromic acid solution) to remove the scratch through a chemical reaction and restore the gloss.
3. Severe Scratches
Professional Replating: If the scratch is deep enough to penetrate the substrate or causes a poor seal, the entire rod must be polished and replated, or a new rod must be replaced. Vacuum Plating Repair: Suitable for genuine chrome-plated parts. It can repair dents and cracks and prevent secondary corrosion.
4. Precautions
Handling Protection: Use protective caps/plastic sleeves to protect the ends and avoid dragging them during handling.
Lubrication and Maintenance: Regularly clean the guides and apply lubricant to prevent foreign matter from being trapped.
Precautions:
Before repair, confirm the thickness of the chrome plating layer (≥ 0.5μm for decorative applications, ≥ 20μm for hard chrome applications).
Use brush plating with caution in high-precision applications such as hydraulic systems, as it may affect sealing.
