Plastic Electroplating: How to Make Plastic Look Like Metal?

At SG PROT, plating is a frequently used surface finishing process for plastic prototypes by applying a very thin coating of a different material. The plating process can either protect the surface against corrosion or give it a decorative metallic look. It is possible to plate a range of metals, particularly copper, silver, gold, nickel, zinc, and tin, onto almost any substrate. It is often desirable to plate a cosmetic finish onto a plastic. Now we will discuss how to make plastic look like metal with the help of electroplating.

1. Processes

There are two main processes for plastic prototype electroplating:

Electroplating: Metal ions are deposited onto the prototype surface through an aqueous solution, creating finishes like bright chrome and gunmetal, with a strong metallic texture. It is mainly suitable for ABS materials.

Vacuum Deposition: Metal particles are deposited onto the prototype surface within a vacuum chamber, offering a diverse range of colors, and it is suitable for various plastics, such as ABS, PMMA, PC, etc.

2. Plastic Electroplating Workflow

With years of experience in prototyping and post-processing, SG follows a standardized plating workflow:

First, the plastic prototype undergoes thorough cleaning.

A thin conductive metal layer is applied via chemical plating or vacuum deposition

 before the main plating process.

Finally, a clear UV coating is sprayed to protect the plated surface.

Typically, the plating layer thickness ranges from 0.02 to 0.05mm, which does not affect part assembly.

• Plastic electroplating of dragon fruit prototype

• Plastic electroplating of prototypes

• More plastic electroplating cases of prototypes

  Contact us and submit your 3D drawings and technical specifications. Our engineering team will provide a detailed manufacturing feasibility analysis and quotation within 24 hours.