Alexei Volkov
There are several ways to re-chrome plastic, including vacuum metalizing, chrome spray paint, and chrome plating. Vacuum metalizing involves applying a base coat to plastic parts and then exposing them to a vapor cloud of aluminum, resulting in a chrome-like finish. Chrome spray paint is a cheaper option that can be done at home, but it may not achieve the desired chrome finish. Chrome plating involves sending plastic parts to a plating company, which will coat the parts in layers of nickel and copper before applying chrome. Additionally, specific products and services, such as PChrome spray-on chrome and Mr. G's Rechromed Plastic, can also be used to restore chrome on plastic surfaces.
Characteristics and Values Table for Re-chroming Plastic
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cost | Expensive |
| DIY | Spray chrome kits, chrome spray paint |
| Professional Service | Mr. G's Rechromed Plastic, Ogden Chrome |
| Techniques | Vacuum metalizing, chrome plating, polishing |
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What You'll Learn
Chrome spray paint
To achieve the best results with chrome spray paint, it is recommended to choose a spray chrome kit that suits your specific needs. PChrome, for example, offers kits in various sizes, depending on the scope of your project. Their kits include a two-headed spray gun or a hand spray bottle for applying their proprietary silver solution and reducer. With PChrome, you can achieve a beautiful chrome-like finish on plastic pieces, such as stereo dials, car parts, and door handles.
When using chrome spray paint, it is essential to follow the necessary preparation steps and application instructions. Ensure that the plastic surface is clean and free of any old paint or coatings. You may need to strip the old chrome and paint the pieces with a base coat, such as gloss black, before applying the chrome spray. By taking the time to properly prepare the surface, you can improve the final result and reduce the risk of the base coat showing through.
Additionally, consider the disadvantages of using chrome spray paint. While it adds shine, the gloss may not last as long as traditional chrome plating. The layer of paint is thin and may wear off over time, leading to fading, peeling, or flaking. If you are seeking a longer-lasting solution, chrome plating, while more expensive and time-consuming, may be a more suitable option. Chrome plating involves coating the plastic parts in layers of nickel and copper before applying the chrome, resulting in a more durable finish.
Overall, chrome spray paint offers a convenient and affordable way to give plastic surfaces a chrome-like appearance. With the right preparation and application, you can enhance the look of plastic pieces and achieve a satisfactory finish. However, for a more authentic and long-lasting chrome effect, chrome plating remains a preferred choice despite its higher cost and longer processing time.
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Vacuum metalizing
The plastic part is then immersed in a tank containing a mixture of concentrated sulfuric and chromic acids. This step creates microscopic holes on the plastic surface, which will later contain the metal coating. After this, the part is immersed in an alkaline mixture to neutralize the acids and prevent them from damaging the plastic further.
Next, a catalytic film is applied to the surface, which will react with the metal plating. An electro-less plating technique is then used to apply a thin layer of copper or nickel, making the part conductive and ready for chrome plating. A negative charge is applied to this new metal coating, and the part is immersed in a tank of positively-charged chrome ions, which are attracted to and attach themselves to the negatively charged copper or nickel layer.
Upon attaching, the ions revert to their neutral metallic form, ensuring an even chrome plate layer. The part is then removed from the chrome and allowed to cool before undergoing a quality inspection to check the evenness of the coating and ensure no discrepancies in the part.
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Chrome plating
There are several ways to achieve this. One way is to use a chrome spray paint, such as Molotow Liquid Chrome, which can be applied through an airbrush. This method is inexpensive and can be done at home, but it may not achieve the desired chrome finish and may require a base coat. Another option is to use a spray chrome kit, such as those offered by PChrome, which are designed for DIY enthusiasts and shop owners looking to restore multiple cars.
For a more professional finish, you can send your plastic parts to a plating company, which will coat the parts in layers of nickel and copper before applying the chrome. This method can be expensive and time-consuming, but it will result in a high-quality chrome finish.
Additionally, there are other methods such as vacuum metalizing, which involves applying a base coat to the plastic and then exposing it to a vapour cloud of aluminium. This process bonds to the surface, leaving a chrome-like shine. This method can also be time-consuming and expensive.
Some people may also choose to polish their chrome-plated plastic to remove any corrosion or dark spots, using a product such as G3 Pro.
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Polishing
Fill a bucket with warm water and soap. Be sure to use a soap that is powerful enough to clean your rims but not too harsh that it damages them. Use a sponge and apply the soapy mixture to your rims. Start at the outside edges of your rim and work your way into the centre. Let the soap sit for five to ten minutes to allow it to break up any residue. Rinse off your rims and clear off any soap residue. Dry your rims with a towel. Avoid air-drying as this can cause water spots.
Select a metal polish designed specifically for chrome. There are some polishes intended only for rims, but any polish made for chrome will work. Apply the polish onto a foam pad or ultra-fine steel wool. A foam pad is the safest option for your rims, but it won't be very effective on dirty rims. If you use steel wool, look for ultra-fine or a rating of #0000. Anything coarser could damage your rims.
Rub the polish back and forth onto the surface of your rims. Start at the edge of the rim and work your way to the centre. Use a back-and-forth motion on flat surfaces and an elliptical motion for curved surfaces. Go over every inch of your rims three or four times to make sure the chrome is properly polished. Reload polish as needed.
For plastic chrome, a milder polish can be worked in by hand with a soft cloth. Avoid using abrasive pads, which can damage the chrome.
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Mr. G's Rechromed Plastic
Rechroming plastic is a costly process, with some companies charging up to $1500 per part. Mr. G's Rechromed Plastic is a service that has been used by car owners looking to restore the chrome on their vehicles. One customer had the dash bezel of their 1966 Ford pickup rechromed, and while the work was done well, the cost may not be relevant today.
There are a few different ways to rechrome plastic parts. One method is to coat the plastic in nickel and copper layers before applying chrome. Another method is vacuum metalizing, where a base coat is applied to the plastic, which is then exposed to a vapour cloud made of aluminium. This method is time-consuming and expensive.
A cheaper alternative is to use chrome spray paint. This can be done at home and is a quick and easy way to achieve a chrome finish. However, it may not look as effective as professional rechroming, and the base coat may show through if not carefully applied.
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Frequently asked questions
Using chrome spray paint is a cheap option for re-chroming plastic. You can do this at home or in your shop. However, it may appear more like silver spray paint than a true chrome finish.
Vacuum metalizing is another method to transform plastic pieces into chrome-coated ones. Your plastic parts will have a base coat applied and then be exposed to a vapour cloud made out of aluminium. This method is time-consuming and expensive.
Yes, PChrome offers spray chrome kits for DIY enthusiasts and shop owners.
The cost can vary, but it tends to be expensive. Some quotes include $550 per side and $1500 each.
Yes, you can use a polish on a towel to buff off corrosion.
