Dewatering systems work in tough conditions and are constantly exposed to abrasive materials that wear down components fast. In this blog post, Australian Surface Technologies will take a look at how industrial hard chrome plating can improve the wear life of dewatering equipment used across Australian mining and industrial sites, extending the working life of pumps, shafts and other critical parts.
Why Dewatering Equipment Wears So Quickly
Dewatering equipment operates in environments where abrasion is unavoidable. Pumps, rods, sleeves and shafts can be exposed to constant contact with sand, slurry and suspended solids. Over time, this contact can strip material from metal surfaces, leading to lower efficiency and premature failure. This wear is often accelerated by high operating hours and variable water quality. Fine particles act like grinding paste, while heavier solids cause impact damage as they pass through systems. Even high-grade base materials struggle to cope when left unprotected. Once wear begins, vibration increases and seals fail more often, leading to frequent maintenance and unplanned shutdowns. For operations relying on continuous water management, these interruptions can quickly become expensive.
How Industrial Hard Chrome Plating Protects Against Abrasive Wear
Industrial hard chrome plating creates a dense, extremely hard surface layer that resists abrasion far better than untreated steel. The chrome coating bonds tightly to the base metal and forms a smooth, low-friction finish that allows components to withstand constant exposure to abrasive particles without rapidly wearing down. The plated surface also reduces material transfer and galling, which helps parts move freely even under load. In dewatering applications, this means shafts maintain their diameter, pump components retain proper tolerances and overall system performance stays consistent for longer. When applied correctly, hard chrome plating can provide a practical barrier between expensive components and harsh operating conditions.
Extending Service Life and Reducing Maintenance
One of the biggest advantages of industrial hard chrome plating is its ability to significantly extend component service life. With a slower wear rate, equipment can last longer between rebuilds or replacements, reducing maintenance frequency and the labour costs that come with it. Improved wear resistance also helps prevent secondary damage. When parts wear evenly and slowly, seals and bearings are less likely to fail unexpectedly. Over time, this leads to more predictable maintenance schedules and fewer emergency repairs.
Common dewatering components that can benefit from hard chrome engineering include:
- Pump shafts
- Helical rotors
- Pistons
Keeping Dewatering Systems Reliable in Demanding Conditions
Reliability is a major concern for dewatering systems, particularly those used in mining and civil construction. Hard chrome plated components are better equipped to maintain consistent performance over long operating cycles, with improved resistance to scoring and reduced drag during operation. This helps pumps run more efficiently and lowers the risk of sudden performance drops. In abrasive slurry environments, this added protection keeps systems operating within design parameters even as conditions fluctuate.
Contact Australian Surface Technologies to Improve Equipment Wear Life
If you’re looking to improve the durability and reliability of your dewatering equipment, Australian Surface Technologies is here to help. Our expertise in hard chrome engineering allows us to support demanding industrial applications across Australia with practical solutions that extend service life. Get in touch with us today to discuss how our industrial hard chrome plating services can keep your dewatering systems running longer and more reliably.