Thursday, December 11, 2014
Chrome plating helps your vehicle look a bit more aesthetically pleasing. However, it is not only used for the sake of appearance. It contributes to the general maintenance of your vehicle in many ways. For instance, before chrome platers begin the actual plating work, a bumper that might be badly impaired will undergo some tinkering in order to bring it back to its normal condition. Plating has the ability to cover a substantial amount of vehicular repair, depending upon the extent of the damage and the recovery required for the plating process.
Chrome Dipping - The General Process
For most of the restoration work, it is advisable to hire professional platers. With the right kind of tools and chemicals, platers will be able to handle the process efficiently. The complete tool kit includes plating material, alkaline cleaner, acid pickle, and chrome stripper, among others. The procedural set up involves separate preparation of the electrolyte tank along with proportionately prepared electrolytes. The size of the electrolyte tank will depend on the kind of spares put for plating. Chrome dipping will have a temperature range different from copper, nickel, aluminum and other plating materials. Your plating expert will be able to tell you the exact range required for the process.
Attention to detail is key for effective plating. For the process to have the proper effect, pre-procedural cleaning is extremely important. Before placing the spares within the tank, it is essential to ensure that all of the parts are devoid of dirt and grease. The alkaline cleaner mentioned earlier is used for this process. With this, the plater may rid the parts of grease, grime, and other stubborn deposits. For stripping the spares of rust and paint, the user may opt for electro-cleaning, buffing, or bead blasting. Personal protection is of paramount importance when conducting Street Chrome plating, as even the slightest contact with grease will cause the plating to chip off at a later stage.
The next step is the pickling stage. The specific amount of time required for pickling depends on the plating material. Some platers prefer dry acids for the process while some may opt for alternatives, such as HCL (Hydrochloric Acid) or vinegar. The actual plating begins during this stage. The base that was prepared will determine the quality of the outcome of flatting, buffing, polishing, and other supplementary processes included under Show Chrome.
Premium services such as Concourse Chrome may include high-end processing for multiple plating. Some services include singular coats with nickel and copper, followed by a finished coating of chrome. If the spare part shows serious damage, the plater may have to weld it for reshaping and sandblast it before proceeding with the chrome coating. Spare parts (such as door handles) may require a more customized plating process, due to the fact that the handle comprises an alloy of multiple metals. Some experts suggest alternative methods such as sand blasting for these, in order to save the surface from peeling off. In case of conspicuous dents and cracks, address the issue with an expert plater, for the process may vary from the standard protocol. Professionals will be better equipped to conduct decorative chrome plating to add to the beauty quotient of your car. Considering the rarity of such services, it is a relief to find selected reputable platforms that conduct such meticulous procedures with utmost care and attention.