Question Discoloration of Atomic Regulator Port Plugs

[Fiveftviz]

I recently noticed some discoloration on a couple of my Atomic M1 regulator port plugs. Could this be corrosion? Are the plugs still safe to use with the regulators?

Both plugs were stored in a dry bag, but they may have been exposed to humidity since I often reached in with wet hands. I inspected the other port plugs on the regulator and didn’t see the same discoloration. Also, the plug on the left was thoroughly washed, which showed that the discoloration isn’t just on the surface.

 

[Mobulai]

It looks like stripped chrome exposing bare brass, but the picture isn’t clear (zoomed in) enough to say with certainty

 

[Scared Silly]

Agree with above need better pictures. I would lean more toward gunk than a loss of chrome.

 

[Nemrod]

IMO, those are safe to use. I see nothing there unusual.

 

[BoltSnap]

Clean them with a hard toothbrush and take a look again.

 

[Geo7]

Did you try cleaning them with a Magic Eraser Sponge? Does wonders to surface finishes as it can remove residues without affecting the chrome (it's a micro-abrasive). Also called Melamine Sponges. You just grip the threads with the sponge while turning the plug on an allen key. Part of the sponge will disintegrate during this process.

 

[happy-diver]

Is that where the wire for dipping in the copper and then the chome solution for chroming was wound

 

[Fiveftviz]

Hi everyone! Thanks so much for the help. Here’s a closer picture. For the port plug on the left, I used a sonic toothbrush with hot water and mild soap. I’ll definitely try the magic eraser and post a follow-up. I suspect it might just be the chrome that’s worn away.

 

[Fiveftviz]

Is that where the wire for dipping in the copper and then the chome solution for chroming was wound

Hi happy-diver! I would guess not, since the other port plugs don’t have the same discoloration. That said, it could always be a manufacturing defect, though that seems less likely.

 

[happy-diver]

I would guess not

And that would be a guess from someone that doesn't know

since the other port plugs don’t have the same discoloration

But they are individual pieces where what happens to one does not necessarily happen to another

That said, it could always be a manufacturing defect

Is this a manufacturing defect, a plating defect or neither or both

though that seems less likely

Less likely than what

where the wire for dipping in the copper and then the chome solution for chroming was wound

I've not experienced anyone attempting to rub something that is lower than the surrounding surface, off

Like rubbing a chip from the laminex top of your kitchen table

Thank you!