PVD chrome plating, also known as Physical Vapor Deposition chrome plating, has become an increasingly popular alternative to traditional chrome plating for wheels and other automotive accessories over the past decade. This high-tech process allows for an ultra-durable, environmentally-friendly chrome-like finish that far surpasses the quality and longevity of outdated plating methods.
We’ll cover everything you need to know about PVD chrome plating, including:
- What is PVD Chrome Plating?
- How Does the PVD Plating Process Work?
- PVD vs. Traditional Chrome Plating
- Benefits of Using PVD Chrome Plating
- PVD Chrome Finish Quality
- Finding a Reputable PVD Chrome Shop
- Cost of PVD Chrome Plating
- Caring for PVD Chrome Wheels
- FAQs About PVD Chrome Plating
What is PVD Chrome Plating?
PVD stands for “Physical Vapor Deposition,” an advanced plating process that utilizes modern technology to deposit chrome onto a wheel’s surface on a molecular level. This allows for an incredibly thin, smooth, and even chrome layer.
The process occurs in a vacuum chamber, where the chrome material and the wheels are electrically charged using a high voltage. The chrome particles are vaporized and fuse to the charged wheel surface to create an ultra-durable chrome coating just a few microns thick.
PVD chrome plating is also sometimes referred to as High-Tech Vapor Chrome, Thin-Film Chrome, or simply Vapor Chrome. Whatever you call it, this revolutionary plating method allows for superior corrosion protection, hardness, and overall longevity compared to outdated plating processes.
How Does the PVD Plating Process Work?
Achieving flawless, lustrous PVD chrome wheels requires an extensive multi-step plating process:
Wheel Preparation
Before plating can begin, the wheels must be scuffed and cleaned to remove any existing clearcoat, anodizing, or factory coatings. This allows the chrome to properly adhere directly to the wheel’s aluminum alloy. The wheels are then finely sanded by hand to eliminate any surface imperfections.
Chemical Pretreatment
The prepared wheels undergo a chemical pretreatment wash to further prepare the surface for plating. This bath uses a mix of detergents, acids, and other OE-approved chemicals specially formulated to clean and etch the aluminum surface. The wheels are then thoroughly rinsed.
Curing
Before any coatings are applied, the wheels are cured in an industrial oven at approximately 400°F. This curing process hardens the aluminum alloy substrate and drives off any residual moisture to prevent plating flaws like blistering or corrosion.
Primer Coating
With the aluminum alloy properly pretreated, a primer coating is evenly applied to the wheels. The primer chemically bonds to the aluminum surface to provide maximum adhesion for the outer PVD chrome layer. The primer is then cured again in the 400°F oven.
PVD Chrome Plating
Now the magic happens! The primed wheels are loaded into the PVD vacuum plating chamber along with chromium target materials. Inside the chamber, the wheel and chromium targets are electrically charged using a high voltage.
The chromium is vaporized and ionized within the vacuum. These vaporized ions are attracted to the charged wheel surface where they condense and fuse together, slowly building up the chrome coating atom by atom.
Modern PVD systems allow for extremely precise control over the plating process. Complex waveforms for the electrical charges, precise plasma generation, and accurate chrome source evaporation all contribute to flawless, smooth, and lustrous chrome plating.
Top Coat Application
To protect the freshly plated chrome finish, a clear top coat is applied over the chrome layer. This clear coat chemically bonds to the chrome, providing scratch resistance and protection from environmental wear. A cutting-edge acrylic urethane is commonly used for outstanding UV resistance and durability.
Final Curing
After the protective clear coat is applied, the wheels undergo a final curing process to fully harden the acrylic clear. Once cured, the wheels are ready to be installed on your vehicle with a brilliant and durable PVD chrome finish!
PVD vs. Traditional Chrome Plating
PVD chrome plating represents a massive leap forward from outdated traditional chrome plating processes. Here are some of the key differences:
Durability
The chrome layer deposited during PVD plating is incredibly thin, dense, and durable. Traditional chrome is much thicker and more porous, which makes it prone to flaking and peeling over time, especially at the edges. PVD chrome can easily outlast the life of your vehicle!
Environmental Friendliness
PVD plating utilizes clean vacuum deposition technologies and does not require harmful chemicals like traditional electroplating. The process is 100% environmentally friendly with no hazardous materials used and no hazardous waste produced.
Repairability
Minor scratches and scuffs can easily be repaired on PVD chrome wheels with simple buffing or re-clearing. Traditional chrome requires expensive complete re-plating if damaged. PVD repairs are quick, affordable, and restore the original quality finish.
Weight Savings
The microscopically thin PVD chrome layer adds virtually no weight versus thick traditional chrome. This leads to reduced wheel weight, better ride quality, and improved fuel economy.
Customization
PVD allows for more flexibility with custom finishes. Different tints can be added to the chrome layer, and different colored primers produce unique effects. Traditional chrome offers no customization.
It’s easy to see why forward-thinking wheel enthusiasts have wholeheartedly embraced PVD chrome plating technology for their rides.
Benefits of Using PVD Chrome Plating
PVD chrome plating offers numerous benefits and advantages over traditional chrome:
Extreme Hardness and Durability
The dense, smooth chrome layer deposited during PVD plating exhibits exceptional hardness measuring over 70 on the Rockwell scale. This hardness and density results in excellent corrosion and chemical resistance that allows PVD chrome to withstand decades of exposure to road salts, weathering, cleaning chemicals, and environmental contaminants. The coating is also highly scratch and scuff resistant.
OEM Quality Finish
The advanced technology and precision process control of PVD plating allows it to rival or even surpass the strict quality standards of new vehicle OEM chrome. The resulting finish is smooth, lustrous, and free of defects. PVD chrome offers a flawless “show car” quality shine.
Thin Layer
The PVD chrome layer is extremely thin, typically just 0.5 – 2 microns thick. This allows for a brilliant chrome look while adding negligible weight to the wheels. It also allows for flexibility and prevents flaking versus thicker plating.
Environmentally Responsible
PVD plating utilizes clean vacuum deposition technologies that require no harmful chemicals like traditional electroplating. It produces no hazardous waste products or byproducts. PVD plating is 100% environmentally friendly.
Repairable Finish
Minor scuffs and scratches can be repaired on PVD chrome wheels by simply re-clearing the finish. No expensive re-plating is required. This makes the process very cost effective for touch-ups and refurbishing. The original quality finish can be maintained for decades.
Customizable Effects
PVD plating allows for added tints and colors within the chrome layer for unique custom finishes. Different colored base primers underneath the chrome also produce eye-catching effects. Traditional chrome offers no customization ability.
Improved Fuel Efficiency
The negligible added weight of the microscopically thin PVD chrome layer results in lighter wheel assemblies that reduce unsprung weight and rotational mass. This leads to modest improvements in fuel economy versus heavy traditional chrome plating.
PVD Chrome Finish Quality
PVD chrome plating is capable of exceptional brilliance and clarity that meets or exceeds OEM standards. However, it is important to understand that the process has limitations that prevent a “perfect” finish in all cases.
Small imperfections like minor orange peel, light waviness, or occasional pinholes may be present in the finish. The primer coat beneath the chrome may also be faintly visible along certain edges or angles.
These extremely minor defects are only noticeable under very close inspection and do not affect durability. They are a natural result of the plating process and wheel geometry, not flaws in the plating quality.
Reputable PVD plating shops warn customers upfront that the finish will not be absolutely perfect. Expectations need to be realistic. The high-tech process still involves coating complex-shaped wheels by hand.
But for most enthusiasts seeking a brilliant, durable chrome finish at a reasonable cost, PVD offers outstanding results. It provides an excellent balance of affordability and quality that far surpasses outdated plating methods.
Finding a Reputable PVD Chrome Shop
Choosing a shop that specializes in PVD chrome plating for wheels is important to ensure high-quality results. Here are some tips for finding a reputable provider:
- Look for experience. Seek out established plating shops that have been specializing in PVD chrome wheels for many years. They will have the process dialed in and be familiar with the intricacies and challenges of plating custom wheels.
- Ask around car forums. Fellow enthusiasts on forums dedicated to your type of vehicle are a great resource. Search for recent posts discussing PVD plating shops to find ones with a proven track record for delivering quality finishes.
- Look for positive online reviews. Google the shop’s name and look for consistent 5-star ratings on Google Maps/Reviews and other review sites. This indicates satisfied customers. But take negative reviews with a grain of salt.
- Consider location. Nearby plating shops can offer convenience and quick turnaround times. But top PVD platers may be worth shipping your wheels to, even if they are located further away.
- Ask about process and warranty. A quality shop should be knowledgeable about their plating process and equipment. They should offer at least a 1-year warranty on the chrome finish.
Taking the time to find a reputable shop helps ensure your wheels get the brilliant, lasting PVD chrome finish you expect.
Cost of PVD Chrome Plating
PVD chrome plating costs more than traditional chrome but offers vastly superior durability and quality that pays for itself in the long run. Expect to pay in the range of:
- Passenger Car Wheels – $350-$850 per set depending on size and complexity. Larger diameters and wider widths increase cost.
- Truck Wheels – $400-$1,000 per set due to larger sizes and heavier construction.
- Motorcycle Wheels – $150-$400 per set for simpler, smaller motorcycle rims.
Keep in mind you get what you pay for with plating. A shop charging $400 per set may cut corners and deliver lower quality versus a premium shop charging $800 per set for proven perfection.
Additional options like color-tinted chrome or different color primers under the chrome layer add $50-$100 per set. Rush turnaround times and shipping costs can also increase the total plating price.
While not cheap, properly done PVD chrome offers tremendous value given the 10+ year lifespan and repairability versus traditional chrome that degrades and requires re-plating.
Caring for PVD Chrome Wheels
PVD chrome plated wheels are highly durable and long-lasting. But like any finish, proper care helps maintain the “just plated” look. Here are some tips:
- Use pH neutral wheel cleaners only. Acidic or alkaline cleaners damage the clear coat. Rinse wheels thoroughly after cleaning.
- Wash wheels regularly with soap and water to prevent brake dust and road grime buildup. This prevents the need for harsher cleaners.
- Avoid abrasive polishes or cleaning pads. Soft microfiber mitts, towels, or brushes are best for the delicate chrome surface.
- Apply a high-quality wheel wax/sealant 2-3 times per year. This adds an extra layer of protection for the chrome and clear coat.
- Repair small scratches or scuffs promptly. Light buffing followed by re-clearing preserves the finish. Avoid neglecting damage.
- When storing wheels long term, give them a thorough wash and apply a coat of quality sealant. Store wheels in a clean, climate-controlled environment.
- Consider wheel covers or brake dust shields to minimize cleaning and prevent damage from road debris. Only use non-abrasive covers.
With proper care and maintenance, PVD chrome wheels will maintain their flawless, brilliant luster for years on end. The durable finish can outlast the life of your vehicle.
FAQs About PVD Chrome Plating
Q: Does PVD chrome look noticeably different from traditional chrome?
A: The appearance is essentially identical, with PVD offering a deeper, more lustrous shine from its smoother finish and lack of plating imperfections. Only under very close inspection by an expert could the difference be discerned.
Q: Does PVD chrome eventually wear off or need re-plating?
A: No, PVD chrome is permanent and incredibly durable when properly applied by specialists. It does not wear away over time like outdated plating. Touch-up re-clearing may eventually be needed, but not full re-plating.
Q: Can PVD chrome crack or peel like regular chrome?
A: No. PVD chrome’s thin, flexible, and tightly-bonded nature prevents cracking, peeling, flaking, or delaminating from the wheel surface. It is highly chip and impact resistant as well.
Q: How long does the PVD plating process take?
A: Approximately 5-7 days on average from start to finish depending on the shop’s workload. The painstaking process cannot be rushed, so plan accordingly when getting wheels plated.
Q: Can I get just one wheel plated?
A: Most PVD plating shops require plating complete sets only to ensure proper color matching across all wheels. Single wheel plating may lead to slight finish variations versus the OE wheels.
Q: Can PVD chrome be applied over existing clearcoat or paint?
A: No, PVD requires plating directly onto the bare alloy to ensure proper adhesion. Any existing coatings must be stripped prior to plating.
Conclusion
PVD chrome plating represents the future of customized wheel finishes. Its unrivaled durability, quality, and environmental responsibility make it today’s top choice for creating stunning, head-turning chrome wheels.
This in-depth guide covers everything enthusiasts need to know about specifying PVD chrome plating to give their rides that perfect gleaming finish. Follow the tips provided to ensure you get flawlessly plated, brilliantly shiny wheels that will stay looking phenomenal mile after mile.
Your ride deserves the best. Choose PVD chrome and never look back!
