Chrome-plated items attract attention with their shine and high cost. And this is not surprising. Various parts, elements and accessories with their shiny surface give the interior of rooms, cars and other objects a special chic. That is why chrome paint metal is still widely used today in the design of any surface!
The history of chrome plating
A mirror emulsion, which is applied in compliance with a whole set of rules and conditions, creates a specific coating that completely imitates perfectly polished metal. This effect is created due to the fact that the special paints contain the smallest particles of the metal itself, as well as a unique varnish. It is thanks to this composition that when applied, a thin layer is formed, which forms a very smooth and shiny surface on almost any object. The range of applications of this new product is increasing every year, and the popularity of this invention is only increasing.
Chrome products have always attracted attention with their shine. Chrome plating technology developed rapidly in the mid-twentieth century. This type of coating has become very widespread in plumbing. With proper care, this type of item always pleases the eye with its brilliance and irresistibility.
At one time, chrome paint kit for car was extremely widely used in the automotive industry. North American automakers were especially distinguished by this in the 50s and 60s of the last century. If you look at the cars of those years, you will notice that they literally shone with an abundance of chrome. Bumpers, moldings, side view mirrors, many overhead parts - everything is covered in chrome. It looked great aesthetically and provided a fairly good anti-corrosion coating.
However, achieving such an effect was possible only when manufactured in a factory and with strict adherence to technology. Deviation from the technological process threatened that the chromium would peel off from the metal. There was another drawback at that time - chrome plating could only be applied to metal surfaces.
Progress does not stand still. Today, chrome plating of various surfaces is possible. However, real chrome plating still remains the lot of manufacturing enterprises. This is due to the fact that the application of chromium metal is an electrical process.
An alternative to the technology of applying metallic chrome is chrome effect paint. Two options are possible here. This is the use of compositions using a traditional spray gun and liquid in cans. The first option can be divided into simple painting and using heat treatment.
Composition and characteristics of the emulsion
As noted earlier, today there are two main types of chrome paints. Single-component paints are available in spray cans. Chrome paint in cans has become widespread among ordinary amateurs when they need to paint a small product that does not require a perfect mirror shine.
The second type is intended for professional painting. Here the formulations are produced in cans and include two components.
Let's consider the option of the composition in cans. Chrome mirror paint for metal is just one of the types of paint available in spray cans. The range of such paints itself is quite wide. Manufacturers offer a variety of chrome effect paint colors.
The most widespread are special formulations with aluminum powder. The can in this case contains microscopic particles of aluminum. Such emulsions contain nitrocellulose base varnishes. The varnish plays the role of a reliable fixative, giving durability to the dried paint. To create a mirror effect, the composition includes special components that help create a reflective property and uniform distribution of aluminum powder on the surface to be painted.
Advantages and disadvantages of spray cans
Compared to two-component paints intended for professional use, chrome paint in cans has a number of advantages. The main advantages of spray cans:
- The most important advantage is that it is completely ready for use. Just shake it for one minute and you can spray it on the required surface;
- Plastic, glass, wood lend themselves well to painting;
- To use this type of dyes, you do not need additional equipment - a compressor, spray gun and other tools. This makes it possible to use it in almost any conditions and significantly reduces the cost of the process, making it possible to process hard-to-reach surfaces;
- There is a wide variety of chrome colors in cans;
- Positive aspects also include ease of storage and easy removal if necessary.
Summarizing all that has been said, we can say that that chrome effect paint in cans is a wonderful option for for amateur use.
Of course, using such a compact paint format is very convenient. But with all the advantages of this type of dyeit is necessary to say aboutb their disadvantages. The main disadvantages of spray cans:
- The mirror chrome effect that many people plan is not always possible. Most often, the surface acquires a light silvery tint. This is due to the composition and components of emulsions in this format.
- The painting process requires careful preparation of the surface and adherence to application technology. Compositions, especially those with a mirror effect, are very sensitive to dust. This must be taken into account when painting. The room where the composition will be applied must be as clean as possible and protected from drafts and penetration of cold air;
- Balloon liquid is only suitable for painting small items;
- If you plan to use several cans, it is important to take into account the fact that they may differ in shade. Therefore, it is recommended to purchase paint in cans of one manufacturer and one color.
Recommendations for using paints
Each type of emulsion provides a certain range of areas where they are recommended to be used. The same with chrome types of dyes. There are a number of recommendations for using this type of emulsion:
- The best results are obtained from formulations from well-known global manufacturers. It is better to refuse cheap options from unknown brands;
- Applying the composition requires certain skills. Before painting the product, it is necessary to conduct training;
- Training is also necessary to prevent smudges, this very significantly reduces the visual appeal of the final look;
- It is not recommended to use this type of dye on flexible plastic;
- If you intend to further coat the painted product with varnish, then you must first select the appropriate varnish. Otherwise, the paint coating may be damaged, which will lead to the need to repeat the painting process.
Following these recommendations will reduce work time and also save money.
Painting various surfaces
The principles of using paint chrome in cans are common to all surfaces, however, it is worth considering some features when painting metal and other surfaces:
Painting metal surfaces. These emulsions are mainly used for this type of surface:
- Before painting, the surface must be thoroughly cleaned;
- Anti-corrosion treatment and degreasing are required;
- Damaged areas are puttied, sanded and then polished. After this, the surface is cleaned again;
- If necessary, primer is applied;
- If primer was applied, then after it has completely dried, polishing is carried out;
- Before spraying, shake the paint can thoroughly for at least one minute;
- The paint is applied in a thin layer. To fully achieve the chrome plating effect, at least three layers may be needed;
- Once completely dry, polishing may be required.
Treatment of plastic surfaces:
- Before painting, the plastic must be thoroughly polished;
- It is necessary to apply primer. Otherwise, the painting may not last long;
- It is recommended to slightly warm the surface before application;
- After drying, polishing is required.
The wide range of types of chrome paint that exist today, as well as a huge range of colors, allow even an ordinary person to apply chrome paint without special training.
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