Metallization applications

Designing properties for aesthetics and function

Metal-coated plastic parts are commonly used in similar applications as metal parts in the automotive, electronics, and consumer goods industries. The metallized plastic parts have the appearance and performance characteristics of metal while retaining the lightweight and cost advantages of plastic.

Because of regulations concerning hexavalent chromium, the industries that have previously been relying on wet and highly toxic plating on plastic processes are starting to transit metallization towards clean and dry coating processes, such as physical vapor deposition (PVD).

The advantages of PVD metallization

The metallization process of plastic parts is usually driven by the metallic appearance, in combination with protecting the parts from damage by external forces. Purely functional metallized plastic components are also increasingly common, e.g. in the automotive industry.

Unlike chromium plating on plastic, the surface structure of a molded plastic part is not altered by PVD metallization. This is because the vacuum-metallized coating is much thinner than the plated coating. By designing molding tools with glossy or matt surfaces, or combinations of different textures, the surface structure of the final metallized product will follow the mold design.

PVD metallization also allows light semi-transparent surfaces, for instance for back-lit features, commonly used in decorative trim in the automotive applications, and radar-transparent metal finishes, used for vehicle radar safety systems.

Cost-efficient PVD metallization with automated production cells

Impact Coatings is well-recognized in the plastic industry and has extensive experience from years of developing cost-efficient, high-quality production solution for metallization of plastic.

Our advantages come from integrating the PVD metallization and the injection molding. The cycle time of an INLINECOATER™ PVD system matches that of the molding machine, which allows for compact automated production cells. Quality control of the finished parts can be conducted only minutes after injection molding, allowing feedback and adjustments that maximize production yields.

• INLINECOATER™ systems offer extremely compact workspace footprints
• INLINECOATER™ systems are automation- and integration-ready
• Cycle time matches injection molding cycles for efficient production cells
• Very high throughput of small batches, for excellent quality control and maximized production yields