Olive Drab Chromate
Olive drab is a heavy chromate over zinc giving a dull green finish, long used on military hardware. Traditional olive drab is hexavalent; trivalent alternatives exist.
Olive drab at a glance
| Specification | ASTM B633 Type II (hexavalent) or Type VI (trivalent) |
|---|---|
| Corrosion | Among the highest of the chromate colors |
| Use | Military and defense-style equipment |
| RoHS | Hexavalent versions are restricted |
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Olive drab chromate · military look
FIELD IDENTIFICATION
What it is
Olive drab is a heavy chromate over zinc giving a dull green finish, long used on military hardware.
Traditional olive drab is hexavalent; trivalent alternatives exist.
OLIVE DRAB
Olive green chromate
Olive drab at a glance
Specification
ASTM B633 Type II (hexavalent) or Type VI (trivalent)
Corrosion
Among the highest of the chromate colors
Use
Military and defense-style equipment
RoHS
Hexavalent versions are restricted
Key points
Electroplating can load high-hardness steel with hydrogen. Parts at roughly HRC 39 and above (Grade 8, 10.9, 12.9, A574) need a qualified process and a
prompt embrittlement-relief bake, or a non-electrolytic coating instead.
Governing standards: ASTM B633; drawing / program requirements. Editions shown are the latest confirmed as of September 2026. The drawing and the governing standard always
take precedence over this sheet.
torquing any fastener. Verify the current governing standard, project documents, OEM requirements, size, thread, coating and lot certification. To the fullest extent permitted by law, The Fastener App disclaims liability
arising from reliance on this reference.
Fastener Guide reference FG-98E39F · thefastenerapp.com/fastener-guide/plating-coatings-finishes/olive-drab-chromate · © The Fastener App. Reference only — verify the current governing standard, drawing and manufacturer data before specifying or installing.

























