Can I assume you plug the ends and vacuum ports before you dump the part in?

 

Yes, I sure did.

And one more picture I forgot to add.

 

Bill:

Thanks for the pics and explanation.

 

Bill,

So by looking at your picture, I assume that it doesn't matter if the item is touching the bottom of the container? That is so cool.

Rob

 

Well, it doesn't matter, but you'll get a dark spot (with no plate) where it touches the bottom. So I'll just flip the part half way through to make it all appear even, like wait 10 min and move it a bit, let it sit again for another 10 min. Then fish it out and look at it, maybe toss it back in for some more coverage.

 

I've used their chrome plating for plastic parts. They sell the stuff for that as well.

 

Just FYI, most plating processes on steel cause a phenomenon called "hydrogen embrittlement", which drastically weakens the part. This embrittlement can be minimized by baking the part at 275 deg F for about 4 hours.
I am pretty sure that the electroless nickel process you are doing suffers from this, so if you do any structural parts I'd bake em for peace of mind. Just don't let the wife know what you are doing to the cookie oven...
I also wouldn't do wheel studs, brake pedals, suspension arms, stuff like that.

Not knocking it- it makes parts look very nice, just wanted to warn you about the possible problems.

Steve