Chromed pipes for furniture. Properties, use

Chromed pipes for furniture can be used as decor and as part of the design. In the first version, it will be the fittings, and in the second - the structural element.

Main characteristics

The application of a layer of chromium on the pipe allows to protect the product from corrosion and give it an aesthetic appearance. Chroming of details from metal, plastic and other materials is carried out. In the production of furniture, a layer of chromium is usually superimposed on a sprayed layer of copper or nickel.

Chromium deposited on the pipes protects against mechanical influences and the effects of moisture. It is used as a wear-resistant and inexpensive material. These properties also explain why chrome plated pipes are used for furniture.

There are three ways of chromizing: chemical, diffusion, electrolytic. The latter method makes it possible to obtain a tube with different structures. Therefore, several types of chromium are released:

• Milky - elastic, but not strong chrome. This type of pipe is used for furniture in cases where they need to be bent. The appearance of the product does not deteriorate.

• Brilliant has an external appeal. The main property is wear resistance. This is the reason for the use of such pipes. Used in those areas of furniture that are often touched.

• Solid - has high strength due to a thick layer of sputtering. It is rarely used for furniture processing.

Pipe sizes

The most common diameter of chrome-plated pipes for furniture is 25 millimeters. But other sizes are used:

• 10 or 16 millimeters - most often made of copper. Pipes of this size are most typical for furniture made in a modern style.

• 25 millimeters - of which support elements and decorative fittings are made. With this diameter, chrome plated pipes are used for the furniture of bathrooms (shelves, towel warmers).

• 32 millimeters - also found in the bathrooms.

• 50 millimeters - differs increased strength. Therefore, they can be used for the manufacture of supports (for example, bar counters). Such pipes withstand weight up to 60 kg.

• 40 or 50 millimeters - are used for the manufacture of stair rails.

How to work with chrome tubes

To work with pipes, you need to know how the pipes are chrome-plated for furniture. In addition to knowledge you will need a set of simple tools.

The bending of the chrome pipe is performed using a blowtorch. The heating of the product should be gradual. You can not use open fire for these purposes. During operation, care must be taken not to damage furniture fittings. The chrome plated pipe is clamped into the vise, pre-wrapped in fabric. These precautions are necessary in order not to damage the surface of the product.

Before cutting the pipe, it is necessary to make sketches of cardboard. Only after this you can start cutting. The chrome tube is cut using a hacksaw with small teeth. You can not use a Bulgarian, otherwise the metal will overheat and deform.

Remove the formed burrs by sandpaper or file with a small fraction.

The parts of the chrome pipes are joined by special elements, which also have a layer of chromium.