Metal finishing on plastic is an excellent way to improve the aesthetics and performance of plastic components and potentially reduce product costs. Metal finishing makes a plastic object look like metal. It can improve durability, increase chemical resistance and electrical conductivity, and enhance the aesthetics of the plastic product.
Keep reading to learn about the different metal finishing processes and the benefits.
What is Metal Finishing on Plastic?
Metal finishing on plastic is the process of adding a metal coating to the surface of a plastic object, typically done for aesthetic purposes or protection from the elements. This process has the added benefit of making the surface of plastic components harder and more resistant to ordinary wear.
How Does Metal Finishing Work?
The terms metal finishing and electroplating are often used interchangeably, but metal finishing includes several kinds of processes. These processes include:
Electroplating
The electroplating process involves first etching the plastic to create small inclusions that allow a conductive metal to grab hold of the plastic, creating a mechanical bond. Then, once a conductive metal coats the plastic, depositing the metal ions onto the surface of the substrate. An electric current passes through a liquid bath, causing the metal ions to coat the surface during this process. The electroplating process enhances durability, electrical resistance, and exterior appearance.
Brushing
Metal finishing with brushes is a great way to remove surface imperfections and give it a “hand-worked appearance.” During this process, a wire brush creates a uniform texture to smooth the product’s surface.
During this process, the parts are put in the plating process and pulled out after the semi-bright nickel bath. Then, that layer is manually or robotically brushed to give it a “hand-worked” appearance. Then, the parts are put back into the plating process where it left off (after the nickel layer) and allowed to finish.
The Benefits of Metal Finishing on Plastic
Aesthetics
Metal finishing can significantly improve the appearance of a plastic object since many industrial plastics have a dull finish. Metal finishing can give a plastic product a bright, shiny appearance cost-effectively.
Cost
If the properties of metals are not needed (weight, strength, conductive, magnetic), then a plastic part that looks like a metal part can be used. Generally, it’s more cost-effective depending on the size, and aesthetic. Some parts will incur more cost savings than others; however, the cost savings can be significant in some cases.
Performance
For a plastic part that is less costly than a similarly designed metal part, the performance of the part can be enhanced using finishing technologies such as PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition). During the PVD process, a metal coating can be applied to the surface to significantly increase the hardness and durability of the metal finish, in most cases performing equal to the metal part at a much lower cost.
Design Flexibility
When industrial designers wish to create a metal product that can’t be made with typical processes, metal finishing on plastic can be a reliable alternative. The flexibility of this process means it can be performed on an extensive range of plastic objects. Aesthetically, metal finishing gives designers and manufacturers another avenue to achieve their desired look.
What Can We Finish for You?
If your new product development teams are considering metal finishing on plastic, you’ll want to ensure that your supplier is experienced and technically certified. At CJ Technology, we have over 50 years of experience providing automakers and OEM suppliers with a consultative approach that ensures stellar performance, accurate budgeting, and on-time delivery. Schedule a call with us today.
