PFAS-Free
Fume Control
HCA-9.3

A Safer, Smarter Solution for Chrome Plating Operations

Summary

  • PFAS-Free, High-Performance Formula: HCA-9.3 is a PFAS-free fume suppressant designed for hard chrome, decorative chrome, and chromic acid anodizing operations.
  • Easy to Use and Compatible: Stand-alone formulation requires no dilution and works with existing PFAS-based suppressants.
  • Supports EPA and OSHA Compliance: Using HCA-9.3 reduces bath surface tension to meet federal EPA limits.
  • Now Available: HCA-9.3 and its low-foam alternative, HCA-9.3D, are available in 1-gallon bottles and 55-gallon drums. Contact Hunter Chemical at 215.461.1900 to request technical data such as usage rate or surface tension data or for best practice information.

At Hunter Chemical, we believe innovation should simplify operations, not complicate them. Our PFAS-Free Fume Control HCA-9.3 is a prime example of this commitment. It is a carefully engineered fume suppressant designed to meet the specific demands of chrome plating and anodizing processes while helping facilities stay ahead of evolving environmental and workplace safety standards.

This is not just another additive on the shelf. HCA-9.3 is a performance-focused solution aimed at reducing emissions, improving air quality, and supporting compliance with current and anticipated regulations. Whether your operation involves hard chrome plating, decorative chrome finishes, or chromic acid anodizing, HCA-9.3 provides consistent performance and ease of use.

Purpose and Performance

The primary function of PFAS-Free Fume Control HCA-9.3 is to suppress harmful fumes and reduce mist formation during chromium plating processes. It accomplishes this by lowering the surface tension of the plating bath and forming a stable foam blanket across the surface. This barrier reduces airborne emissions and protects your facility’s air.

HCA-9.3 meets or exceeds the requirements set forth in the EPA’s Chromium Electroplating NESHAP (National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants), originally published on September 19, 2012. By maintaining bath surface tension below the federal limit of 40 dynes/cm (when measured by stalagmometer) or 33 dynes/cm (when measured by tensiometer), HCA-9.3 helps ensure compliance with current regulations.

For operations that require reduced foam levels, Hunter Chemical also offers HCA-9.3D, a defoamer-added version of the product. While HCA-9.3 forms a moderate foam layer, HCA-9.3D noticeably reduces foam while still providing effective mist suppression through surface tension reduction. All of the benefits of HCA-9.3 apply to 9.3D as well.

Operational Benefits

Choosing HCA-9.3 is not only a step toward regulatory compliance, it also delivers measurable business benefits:

Improved Workplace Safety

By minimizing hexavalent chromium mist, HCA-9.3 reduces worker exposure to known carcinogens. This contributes to a healthier work environment and lowers potential liability risks.

Regulatory Preparedness

With increasing scrutiny on PFAS-based products, switching to a PFAS-free solution now positions your facility to meet future regulations without costly last-minute changes or retrofits.

Extended Equipment Life

Reducing emissions can extend the life of ventilation systems and scrubbers by minimizing buildup and maintenance needs.

Positive Environmental Impact

Using a PFAS-free suppressant reflects a commitment to sustainable practices, something increasingly valued by customers, employees, and the public.

Compatibility and Ease of Integration

HCA-9.3 is a stand-alone formulation that does not require dilution or a paired product. It is effective in decorative, hard chrome, and chromic acid anodizing applications. The product is compatible with prior-generation PFAS-based fume suppressants, including Hunter’s 8.2 formulations and those from other producers. This compatibility makes transitioning to HCA-9.3 seamless for most facilities.

To optimize effectiveness, agitation or mixing of HCA-9.3 before use is recommended. HCA-9.3 is supplied in 1 gallon bottles and 55 gallon drums. Bottles should be shaken well, and drum contents should be agitated before use to ensure all material is transferred to the bath. If any product remains, add water to the container, shake, and then complete the transfer. Dispose of rinsed/empty packaging in accordance with local regulations.

Safe Handling and Quality Assurance

HCA-9.3 is not classified as hazardous for transport. Refer to Hunter Chemical SDS for safe handling guidelines. Additionally, because HCA-9.3 is used in environments that may contain high concentrations of chromic or sulfuric acid, PPE appropriate to these hazards should always be worn when handling the product.

Hunter Chemical is ISO 9001:2015 certified by DEKRA Certification, Inc., and we are committed to delivering high-quality products that meet strict safety and performance standards. Laboratory data confirming HCA-9.3’s performance is available upon request.

Ready for Use in Your Operation

PFAS-Free Fume Control HCA-9.3 is now available and ready to support your chrome plating and anodizing operations. After extensive research, testing, and validation, this advanced fume suppressant has been proven effective in real-world conditions and across a variety of metal finishing applications. It delivers reliable performance, seamless integration, and measurable improvements in safety.

As environmental regulations tighten and demand for PFAS-free solutions grows, HCA-9.3 offers a proven way to stay compliant without sacrificing quality or productivity. Adopting this technology now positions your operation as a forward-thinking leader in the industry, committed to worker safety, environmental stewardship, and operational excellence.

In addition to HCA-9.3 and HCA-9.3D, Hunter Chemical also offers high speed chrome catalyst and chromic acid. Backed by our ISO 9001:2015 quality certification, and decades of technical expertise, we are committed to providing ongoing application support.

The Next Steps …

To request technical data such as usage rate or surface tension data, or place an order, contact us or call 215.461.1900.