Q.  What is a vacuum metalized finish?

A. It is a process whereby we apply melted aluminum in a vacuum chamber onto base coated plastic parts.

Q.  How thick is the aluminum finish?

A. The aluminum finish is a very thin film that needs to be protected by a clear top coat of paint.

Q. How durable is the top coat?

A. The top coat that we use is a urethane, exterior, high quality paint, similar in durability to the paint on new cars. It will not crack or yellow in the sun.

Q.  Will this finish be as durable as metal chrome?

A. No it is not. Since this is a painted top coat surface, it will scratch and in exterior applications, will be susceptible to rock chips. Once the surface aluminum has been exposed, it will begin to oxidize in the weather and it may cause the surrounding area to lift.

Q. Once the surface has been chipped is there a way to save the finish?

A. Yes, by applying a drop of clear lacquer paint to the affected area.

Q.  Is your process as smooth as chrome on metal?

A. The smoothness of the surface after plating is dependent upon the surface condition of the original part.

Q.  What causes the orange peel effect?

A. In vacuum metalizing, in order to cover sanding marks several coats of specially designed paint must be applied to ensure a uniform and even consistency on the surface of the part. The more layers required to cover the sanding marks and repaired sections, the more the orange peel effect will become prominent.

Q.  Can the surface be polished prior to plating?

A. After the part has been base coated the piece cannot be touched, sanded or polished prior to the process because the plated surface will show up any sanding or swirl marks.

Q. What can I use to clean my plated parts?

A. A mild soap cleaner, with no abrasives. Do not use any silicone based or ammonia products or it will cloud the surface over time.