Plastic plating process means the movement of insoluble ions from the metal to the plastic surface. When metal ions are placed on the surface, we will have a new surface that has the properties of any two materials; And the outer surface can act like metal. It is also used in various industries with the purposes of corrosion protection and coating, increasing surface hardness, improving electrical conductivity and improving the appearance of products.
In the industry, copper plating is usually used on plastic, especially when electrical conductivity is required, although other metals such as silver, nickel, chrome and gold can also be used. In some cases, multiple layers of different metals can also be used. The most important reason for adding metals to plastic is aesthetics. Metal coating such as gold and silver makes the surface shine significantly and also increases the corrosion resistance and strength of plastic in some cases.
Plating price of plastic parts
Preparing the surface is a critical step to start the process; Due to the lack of electrical conductivity, plastic lacks the necessary adhesion, that's why at this stage, a metal is used to create this adhesion. To prepare the surface, the materials are chemically cleaned in chemical baths and a layer is applied to the plastic before the process begins. This creates the necessary thickness and proper adhesion, so a layer of pure electrolytic copper is placed on the surface of the plastic. According to the size, shape and performance of the desired part, the copper layer can be the last layer or the layer that is placed under the rest of the metal layers. After coating with copper, metals such as nickel, silver, copper and gold can be used to continue the work.
Before starting the process, the plastic must be molded to reduce the pressure on the part and increase the quality of the part. Since this material is a non-metallic compound, in order to create adhesive properties in it through electroless plating (without electric current), we must metalize it, this process includes the following steps:
Cleaning
To start work, the surface must be completely clean and free of fingerprints and dirt. This is done with a mild alkaline cleaner; In some cases, it is necessary to completely wet the surface with chromic acid (buy chromic acid). Etching is done. Etching usually involves a solution of chromium trioxide or sulfuric acid in order to increase the surface area of the layer; It also makes it easier for the piece to absorb liquids. In this step, small holes are usually created that make the connection with the deposited metal easier. softens, which can cause uniform absorption in the activation phase. It is usually found in certain layers of plastic such as polycarbonate and polypropylene. be done, neutralization can be done with sodium bisulfate or similar products. is used This product works well with resins such as polypropylene and polyphenyl oxide.
Activation
This step involves a precious liquid metal such as gold, palladium or platinum. It is with a low concentration that is used as a catalyst during electroplating.
Accelerator
In the previous step, tin hydroxide is added to the catalyst so that the catalyst can play its role. perform well; Now, at this stage, it is necessary to remove this excess tin hydroxide with the accelerator.
Advantages of plastic plating
Becoming more beautiful
The most important advantage of plastic plating is the beauty of the final product. An attractive shiny gold or silver layer on the plastic parts to a great extent makes its appearance beautiful and eye-catching. It gives customers the power to choose, it is one of the other advantages of plastic plating.
High resistance
This industry increases the resistance and strength of parts against possible damage and corrosion. Also, if a metal layer is used for coating, it increases the resistance of the plastic against chemicals.
Changing the appearance of the outer layer
Changing the outer layer and improving the appearance of the product is another The advantages of plastic plating are considered. Exactly what we see in the automotive industry. Varied design, light weight, flexibility, saving energy and reducing the impact of light on plastic damage are other advantages of this work.
Applications of plastic plating
Plumbing
Using plating on plumbing equipment will make the price more reasonable and also the beauty of the products. This increases the demand for plating on plastic appliances. People who are looking for a luxurious and attractive bathroom can use gold plated pipes. But many audiences are interested in nickel-plated pipes; This metal is compatible with the taste of most people in the society.
Automotive industry
In this industry, the use of polymers is very useful. Low weight, high flexibility, the possibility of designing and making a plastic mold in the desired shape has increased the demand. The use of nickel plating in the automotive industry is mostly for its beautification. including wheels, car door handles, gear knobs and front windows.
Plastic Plating for Electronics
The most common application of plating on plastics after automotive is related to the electronics industry. In this industry, plastic plating is used to beautify the appearance of the product in the production of plastic parts such as mobile phones, computers, keys and control buttons. In these products, nickel and nickel-chromium plating are used, which makes the parts conductive in terms of application. Nickel plating enables soldering on objects and protects the parts from possible damage. Bottles or perfumes. In France, for the beauty of the perfume bottle and to attract customers, they use shiny and colorful plated doors.
Household products
Using plastic tools plated with metal is more suitable. And it is cheaper than all-metal appliances that can be seen in some household appliances such as remote controls of electrical appliances and all kinds of handles. Hygiene not only makes them beautiful, but also makes washing products easier. For example, kitchen or bathroom faucets and other sanitary appliances.
Radio accessories
Antennas plated with plastic allow easy transmission of radio waves and take care of items.< /p>
Clothes and clothing
Plastic plating has also reached the clothing industry and has a great impact on the beauty of buttons on clothes. The shiny and metallic buttons have definitely caught your attention. It is good to know that they are plastic plated with metal.