Chrome coating is not airtight. Naturally occurring micro-pores cause penetration of the chrome layer. While water is not a major threat, other chemicals, especially chlorine, and other substances found in washing powders and fabric dyes may react causing micro-cracks, delamination, fading, and ultimately even corrosion of the radiator.
Terma applies solutions that protect chrome radiators against the danger of corrosion, cracks and discoloration in accordance with the highest and most advanced world standards. Two protective layers are applied on each radiator before chrome plating.
The first one – the copper layer, is very tight. It provides adequate adhesion and constitutes ideal corrosion protection. Copper forms a stable 20 microns layer. It repairs any steel surface inadequacies in a gentle and permanent way, which ensures a very smooth surface for the application of subsequent layers.
The second layer – the nickel one, is a primer for the application of chrome coating and provides additional corrosion protection. Copper and nickel coatings are tight, but characterized by low mechanical resistance. Therefore, we apply the third, chromium layer, which lightens up details and changes colour from delicate shade of brown to pure silver. Additionally, chrome coating is highly resistant to mechanical damage. Chromium is resistant to neutral agents, so a damp towel will not affect the aesthetic value of the heater. However, if the same towel is soaked with an active agent the risk of discoloration or other damage appears. To keep a chrome-plated radiator in an ideal condition for a much longer period of time than is guaranteed by Terma, please adhere to the following guidelines. Firstly, under no circumstances clean the surface of chrome-plated radiators with products containing chlorine in any form. Secondly, do not use abrasive cleaners.