Vacuum metallizing: a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative to electroplating

If saving the environment and money are on your wish list while plating and coating your needs, then vacuum metallizing may be your only option. You may want to have a chrome plating and coating to achieve the desired look, quality, and durability of your products, but you can’t deny the heavy pocket pinch and the health and environmental risks associated with it.

The acid used in chrome plating is carcinogenic; involves the use of cyanide and can cause hydrogen embrittlement. This is a proven solution and an efficient safe alternative to chrome plating. Vacuum metalizing equipment is used for a wide range of purposes to make things shine like chrome. From the automotive and aeronautical industries to the telecommunications and various electrical components industries, this is the safest and most cost-effective solution.

Does vacuum metallization compromise quality and durability?

This process was developed in the 1960s and has since evolved and undergone crucial developments in its applications. Originally, this process was developed for the coating of interior accessories such as dashboards, lights, armrests, etc. At the time, the process did not involve the application of a top coat, which resulted in rapid erosion of the exterior’s chrome effect, making it vulnerable to scratches.

But now the process has evolved and progressed and such susceptibility possibilities are almost absent. Gives an absolutely brilliant metallic finish that can last for years. Progress in this field has been so great that the top coat can be tinted to produce colored chrome effects and imitation gold effects. However, you can’t get the same durability as a chrome coating and finish, but considering the cost effectiveness and durability it offers, it’s pretty satisfying.

How is vacuum metallization carried out?

It is a process where a non-porous substrate such as plastic, metal or glass is given a simulated chrome finish. An extremely thin layer of pure aluminum evaporates on the surface which requires a vacuum coating placed inside a vacuum chamber. A cloud of aluminum vapor is created here and when this cloud comes into contact with the other surfaces it condenses and adheres to the surfaces to create a thin uniform metallic layer that gives the desired chrome shine effect. Before the metallizing operation, the parts to be metallized are coated and baked to remove solvents from the base coat and this ensures a hard and smooth finish to the parts. After the metallizing process is done, another protective top coat is applied.

wide application

Vacuum metallizing can have wide applications. The electronics, telecommunications, computer, military, medical, aerospace, automotive, and marine industries involve extensive use of these applications.

This has become a common application now in various industries. Ecological responsibility and personnel safety are a priority in most industries today and, given the quality and durability of the products that this process guarantees, most industries choose this option as the safest. There are many places that deal with this and their vacuum metallizing equipment is top notch. Check the best offers before hiring.