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Nickel plate on abs/pv

2003

Hello-

My company manufactures a variety of injection molded plastic products in ABS and PVC. We are currently vacuum metallizing a number of these products, and I would like to look into the feasibility of a nickel-plate process instead. Any info on this subject would be greatly appreciated, and I will respond to all email that is not spam.

Thanks,

Donald Fagan
- Ensenada, Baja California, Mexico

Dear Ensenada,

You should contact the major supply houses directly. They will be able to answer your questions. Plating on plastics is too complex for this kind of forum.

Regards,

Jonathan Timms
- Hong Kong
2003

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2003

I certainly agree with the central point of your response, Mr. Timms, that some subjects are too involved to cover in a public forum, and require an on-site meeting between the inquirer and experienced parties! But at this point Mr. Fagan appears to be looking for a general introduction to the differences between and advantages/disadvantages of nickel plating vs. vacuum metallizing

There are great advantages to switching from vacuum metallizing to nickel plating, including durability and conductivity; but there are disadvantages as well. For example, nickel plating has substantial environmental implications and much higher cost, and I honestly doubt that the major suppliers of plating processes would begin their presentation by introducing that fact up-front :-)

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey