The authoritative public forum
  for Metal Finishing since 1989
-----

What finishing process for flanged nut covers for truck wheels?

We are looking to manufacture an ABS cap that is used in the transport sector to cover 33 mm flanged nuts. (cosmetic application only)
Various companies such as Alcoa have the type of chrome finish that we are looking for. Our current situation is that this process does not seem to be available in Canada or the US. Our potential US manufacturer has reputable vendors in China and are looking at a very expensive chrome coating process. Commercial Trucking does see a wide variety of operating and road conditions that need to be considered.

Scott Rand
Product designer - Calgary, Alberta Canada
July 16, 2011

---

Consider searching for a vendor that does vacuum metallizing. The process has the ability to give a high luster and robust coating on external surfaces (even on plastics). You should definitely be able to find numerous companies that offer this type of service. The process is run as a batch so it lends itself to high volumes and small parts. With enough units to coat your piece part cost shouldn't be too outrageous.

Just do a web search for "vacuum metallizing" and you should be on the right track.

Good luck!

-Rob

Robert J. Villegas
- Los Angeles, California, USA
August 18, 2011

---

Hi, Scott.

It isn't clear to me what this "process that companies such as Alcoa have" is, and why you feel is not available in Canada or the USA. I strongly doubt the accuracy of that assumption. Certainly real chrome plating is available here, chrome-look paint is available here, and vacuum metallizing is available here too as Robert has noted.

Robert's implication that today's vacuum metallizing will last 5 years is probably true. Yes, chrome plating is expensive, but it is the premium finish, and it is what all OEMs use on their exposed plastics like grills. I don't know what Alcoa does, but some lug nut cover suppliers do offer real chrome plating. I can see that there is a lot of competition and a tighter price point than I would have guessed :-(

Regards,

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey
August 18, 2011