Alexei Volkov
Re-chroming plastic can be an expensive process, with some companies charging up to $1500 per item. A cheaper alternative is to use a spray such as Molotow Liquid Chrome, which can be applied through an airbrush or bought in a bottle. Before spraying, the old chrome must be stripped, and the plastic painted with a gloss black paint. Another option is to use a thin Vacuum Orna-Metal coating, which is less durable but significantly cheaper.
How to Re-Chrome Plastic at Home
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Spraying Molotow Liquid Chrome through an airbrush | You can even buy it in a bottle |
| Stripping old chrome | Paint the pieces gloss black, then chrome spray |
| Smoothing the texture | Spray with conductive copper paint |
| Vacuum Orna-Metal | Significantly cheaper but less durable |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Spraying Molotow Liquid Chrome
Preparation: Start by stripping any old chrome from the plastic surface. Then, paint the surface with a gloss black paint to create a base for the chrome spray. Ensure the surface is clean and free of any dirt or debris before spraying.
Spraying Technique: When spraying Molotow Liquid Chrome, it is important to remember that less is more. Apply the spray in thin, even coats, ensuring that you do not over-saturate the surface. Multiple light coats are better than a single heavy coat. Practice on a spare part or a spoon to get a feel for the spray pattern and flow rate before applying it to your project.
Curing and Drying: Molotow Liquid Chrome takes a long time to dry and cure completely. Leave it untouched for at least 24 hours, if not longer. Avoid touching or handling the surface during this time, as any contact can dull the mirror finish. The chrome finish will continue to cure and harden over time, becoming more scratch and scuff-resistant.
Clear Coats: While Molotow Liquid Chrome provides a brilliant chrome finish, it can be challenging to work with for larger applications. Consider using clear coats to protect the chrome finish and prevent marking or tarnishing. Both Alclad AquaGloss and Mr Hobby Super Clear can be used as clear coats, with AquaGloss leaving a slightly brighter finish. However, keep in mind that even with clear coats, sanding can lift pigment and dull the finish.
Maintenance and Care: Once your project is complete and the Molotow Liquid Chrome has fully cured, it is essential to handle it with care. Avoid sanding the chrome finish, as it will immediately lift the thin layer of metallic pigment, dulling and darkening the shine. With proper care and maintenance, your chrome-plated plastic will retain its brilliant finish.
Installing Plastic Tile Edging: A Simple DIY Guide
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Painting pieces gloss black
First, you will need to gather the necessary materials and tools. For this project, you will need gloss black paint specifically designed for plastic surfaces, such as Rust-Oleum Automotive 12-Ounce Paint For Plastic Spray, Gloss Black, or Trim Black Gloss Black, an acrylic coating formulated for plastic, steel, and other surfaces. You will also need sandpaper, an adhesion promoter or primer, and a clear coat sealant.
Once you have your materials, start by sanding or scuffing the plastic pieces to create a rough surface for the paint to adhere to. Wipe down the pieces to remove any dust or debris after sanding. Then, apply the adhesion promoter or primer to the sanded pieces, following the manufacturer's instructions. This step is crucial, as it will help the paint stick to the plastic.
After the primer has dried, you are ready to paint. Shake the can of gloss black paint well and test it on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it sprays evenly and you are happy with the colour and finish. Then, spray the paint onto the plastic pieces using smooth, even strokes, holding the can about 10 inches away from the surface. Apply several thin coats, allowing adequate drying time between each coat as per the manufacturer's instructions.
Finally, once the paint has dried, apply a clear coat sealant to protect the finish and add shine. Again, follow the manufacturer's instructions for drying time. That's it! You have now successfully painted your plastic pieces gloss black.
Remember always to work in a well-ventilated area when using spray paint and wear appropriate protective gear, such as a respirator, eye protection, and gloves.
Covering Office Windows: Plastic Protection in 5 Steps
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Smoothing texture with conductive copper paint
There are several types of conductive copper paint available, and the right paint must be selected to achieve good-looking results. For instance, Sherri Haab's graphite paint is toxic and contains hazardous ingredients, while the new version is water-based, smooth to apply, and can be cleaned with soap and water. Safer Solutions conductive paint is another popular option in the USA, which is made with copper, not graphite.
Before applying conductive copper paint, the surface must be clean and free of dust. Highly textured surfaces require more paint, with 3 to 4 coats recommended. The paint can be applied in several ways, including brushing, dipping, and spraying. Brushing is the most common method, but it can leave strokes on a plain surface. For a smoother finish, tapping the brush on top of the piece is recommended. Dipping is suitable for covering the entire creation in copper, while spraying uses the least amount of paint and is recommended for beginners.
After applying the paint, it is important to allow it to dry completely. Conductive copper paint becomes conductive once dry, making it possible to electroform non-conductive items.
Plastic and Sulfuric Acid: A Dangerous Reaction?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Using Vacuum Orna-Metal
Vacuum Orna-Metal is a process used to chrome plate plastic parts. It is a cheaper alternative to other chrome-plating methods, but it is not as durable and will likely only last 3-5 years. The process is primarily used for interior plastics.
The first step in the Vacuum Orna-Metal process is to apply a base coat to the plastic part. This base coat is baked using in-line conveyor base coat machines, which ensure the correct coating thickness, oven time, and temperature. The base coat provides a high-gloss film for the aluminium to adhere to.
The second step is vacuum metalizing, where pure aluminium is evaporated onto the part's surface in a high vacuum metalizing chamber. This gives the part a highly reflective chrome metal appearance.
The third step is to apply a top coat using the same process as the base coat. The top coat seals and protects the aluminium and is made from automotive-quality polyurethane material for a durable, long-lasting finish.
Before the vacuum metalizing step, the plastic part typically undergoes an electro-less plating process, where it is coated with copper or nickel. This step makes the part conducive, allowing the chrome plating to adhere. To prepare the part for this process, it is immersed in a mixture of concentrated sulfuric and chromic acids, which etch microscopic holes on the surface. The part is then immersed in an alkaline mixture to neutralize the acids and ensure they do not continue to eat into the plastic. A catalytic film is applied before the electro-less plating process, and the part is immersed in a final bath to remove any leftover chemicals and accelerate the film's reaction to the metal plating.
After the vacuum metalizing step, the part is removed from the chrome and allowed to cool. A quality inspection is then conducted to ensure the chrome coating is even and that there are no discrepancies in the part.
Choosing the Right Thickness for Greenhouse Plastic
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Getting quotes from professional services
If you're looking to rechrome plastic at home, you may want to consider getting quotes from professional services to understand the cost and process involved. Here are some tips to help you get started:
Identifying Professional Services
Start by searching for local chrome plating specialists in your area. You can use online forums, such as CorvetteForum, to seek recommendations from other individuals who have had similar needs. These forums often provide insights into the quality, speed, and communication of various services. Additionally, you can explore websites like mmmetalizing.com, gcartrim.com, and chrometechusa.com, which offer chrome plating services.
Contacting and Requesting Quotes
Once you have identified a few potential professional services, reach out to them via email or phone to discuss your specific requirements. Provide them with details about the plastic parts you want to be rechromed, including the type of plastic, the size, and the current condition of the pieces. Ask them about their process, turnaround time, and, most importantly, request a price quote. A price quote is an agreement to provide services at an agreed-upon price and will help you understand the cost structure.
Comparing Quotes
When you receive quotes from different professional services, it's important to compare them thoroughly. Evaluate the quoted prices, but also consider other factors such as the quality of their work, their customer reviews, and their responsiveness to your inquiries. Remember that the lowest price may not always be the best option, as you should balance cost with quality and reliability.
Negotiating and Finalizing
After comparing the quotes, you may have a better understanding of the market rate for the service. If you feel that a particular quote is higher than expected, don't hesitate to negotiate. Discuss your concerns with the service provider and see if they are open to adjusting the price or offering any discounts. Once you are satisfied with a quote and have found a service that meets your standards, you can finalize the agreement and proceed with the rechroming process.
Remember, getting quotes from professional services is a standard step in understanding the cost and scope of any project. It ensures that you are well-informed before making a decision and helps you find a reputable and skilled specialist to handle your plastic rechroming needs.
The Ultimate Guide to Installing Plastic Wall Covering
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
You can spray Molotow Liquid Chrome through an airbrush. Strip the old chrome, paint the pieces gloss black, chrome spray, and you're done.
Vacuum Orna-Metal provides a cheaper alternative to re-chroming plastic. However, it is not as durable and will likely only last 3-5 years.
The cost of re-chroming plastic can be high, with some companies charging $1500 per piece.
Yes, several companies offer re-chroming services, including Ogden Chrome and Mr. G's. However, keep in mind that the prices may vary, and some companies may no longer offer these services.
Yes, some people have suggested using incredibly shiny vinyl to wrap the plastic parts, which can achieve a similar shiny effect.
