Model Maker Chrome

[djunod]

This is a question for any of you model makers out there... I recently used Alclad chrome paint and am astounded at how great it turned out. Still, being the "perfectionist" that I am, I would like to be able to do "real" chrome on plastic. Does anybody know how the model manufacturers do it? I think I narrowed it down to something about "vapor coating". Any pointers (other then using the rub-on sheet chrome) would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks!

[Belair62]

The rub on chrome is tough to work with...what parts are you trying to do ? Small or large ? Modelhaus MAY be able to do something small but there are automotive places too...Mr 70 posted a company that does this in a past thread somewhere.

[Tom Hartman]

Try these guys, they do nice work. Chrome Tech USA 2314 Ravenswood Dr. Madison Wi. 53711, or at [email protected] They will give you the answers you are looking for and time span.

[CamarosRus]

I'm thinking that the process used to chrome plate plastic is called VACUMN METALLIZING......and a variety of vendors in Hemmings advertise this service......
Chuck S

[Mr70]

You need a Vacuum Chamber.
Search HERE (http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&lr=&q=vacuum+aluminum+metalizing&btnG =Search)

[djunod]

Cool, thanks for the pointers!

BTW---There is a surplus sputter device on e-bay right now... without the vacuum pump.

[djunod]

BTW---If your only solution (due to the casting, finances, etc) is to paint chrome, then I highly recommend Alclad (http://www.alclad2.com/) natural metal finishes. They do require an air brush to apply.

[55chevy]

Would our beloved Belair happen to be a model builder as well?? http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif Welcome to the club shorty http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif

[Belair62]

Since I was 5 !

[55chevy]

Ditto http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif

[djunod]

[ QUOTE ]
what parts are you trying to do ? Small or large ?

[/ QUOTE ]

Right now just some trim parts on a few HO Maco's. At some point I need to do some parts that I cast out of resin. And then some plastic versions of the Maco logo, because not everybody wants the pay the price for the chrome metal cast pieces.

[Belair62]

HO cars ??? Use the Bar metal foil for whatever you can....cast resin may be able to be done by Modelhaus or another place that specializes in model building. I know you can send them old Promo bumpers for replating.

[All American Racer]

Dad and I built model trucks all through the seventies. My dad's were awesome. He said mine were excellent but looking back on them I think he was being nice. I still want to buy a Kenworth mixer that AMT sold back then but it's about 150 - 200 bucks these days. Mom smashed every truck he ever built when he left her for another woman! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/eek.gif