Will sandblasting remove chrome?

Sandblasting — a type of abrasive blasting— is used to remove chrome by propelling solid pieces of silica sand through a pressurized nozzle to impact a project surface, getting rid of the chrome. It can remove chrome, but more advanced blast abrasives can be safer, more effective and less costly. 

Although there are methods beyond sandblasting for removing chrome, such as using chemical solutions, reverse electroplating, or using other specialized machinery, these methods can be time consuming, complicated, or even dangerous. 

For example, reverse electroplating involves a live electric current and involves hazardous chemicals. Other chemical methods may be difficult to execute or damage the underlying substrate, making it difficult to re-chrome. 

What’s the best abrasive for blasting away chrome? 

Whether the goal is to remove chrome plating for aesthetic purposes or to remove the chrome to put on a fresh coat, using an abrasive blaster can get the job done efficiently and effectively. 

The EpiX and KinetiX line of superoxalloy blast abrasive from 10X Engineered Materials is a new class of advanced abrasive that will not only get rid of the chrome, but also leave a clean substrate, virtually free of embedded particles — unlike alternatives such as garnets, slags, metals and glass — so the next coating can be applied properly. 

This is possible because of the polymorphous nature of superoxalloy abrasives. Often, this means that the abrasive can complete multiple blasting steps in one – eliminating the need for chemical stripping. 

Beyond their high performance, EpiX and KinetiX superoxalloy can be safer, making 10X abrasives safer for both workspaces and the environment. Plus, EpiX and KinetiX are more reusable and offer lower dust than other popular abrasives.

Currently, KinetiX and EpiX are available from abrasive distributors around the US. If you don’t see a distributor near you, contact 10X and we will work with you to get you what you need. EpiX abrasive, which is best for precision applications such as powder coating and medical applications, is also available to purchase directly from the 10X Engineered Materials website.