High tensile steels are more susceptible to hydrogen embrittlement. The wheel lockrings are a low carbon steel and in compression when installed on the wheel.
A part in tension is more apt to fail if it has hydrogen embrittlement. The spokes on a wire wheel are subjected to tension and compression, and early chrome plated wire wheels failed due hydrogen embrittlement.
The post plate bake process is the cure for hydrogen embrittlement. Most platers can do this for a minimal charge.
Some additional info:
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