What size of elements can be vacuum metallized at ELMAL Sp. z o.o.?

The maximum size of a single element for PVD vacuum metallisation should not exceed 900x300x300 mm. Since each part has a different specification and geometry, we always encourage sending a direct inquiry with dimensions.

What materials and plastics can be PVD metallized?

PVD technology allows obtaining a mirror coating on almost any stable material. Most often, we metallize plastics such as ABS, polycarbonate (PC), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), polystyrene (PS), as well as glass, ceramics, and metals.

How does PVD Vacuum Metallisation differ from traditional electroplating?

PVD Vacuum Metallisation is a fully eco-friendly technology (it does not generate toxic wastewater and does not use harmful hexavalent chromium). It allows coating plastics and glass, provides an ultra-thin, uniform mirror coating, and features excellent adhesion without the risk of chipping.

What colors of vacuum metallisation can be obtained?

The basic color is a mirror, high-gloss silver (chrome effect). By using special coloring topcoats, we can obtain gold, brass, copper, titanium effects, as well as colors like red, blue, green, or black chrome.

Is the coating obtained by PVD metallisation resistant to weather conditions and wear?

Yes. The vacuum metallisation process consists of applying a basecoat, evaporating metal in vacuum, and applying a final protective layer (clear topcoat). It protects the metallic layer from oxidation, UV radiation, moisture, and minor mechanical damage.

Can used or worn parts be metallised (e.g. headlight reflector restoration)?

Yes, we successfully restore elements such as worn-out car headlight reflectors. The condition is the thorough removal of old, degraded paint and metal coatings before applying the new PVD coating.

Vacuum Metallisation

Technological process

We use PVD (physical vapor deposition) technology, also known as thin-film deposition technology. It consists of evaporating metals (usually aluminium) and then depositing their vapor onto the surface of the elements. In this process, metal atoms bond with the finished surface, forming layers of a new coating.

Metal evaporation

The elements subjected to the metallisation process are placed in a sealed chamber in which we generate a high vacuum (5x10^-3 mbar). Under such conditions, the sublimation temperature — the direct transition from a solid to a gaseous state — is incomparably lower. Thanks to this, we are able to carry out the metal evaporation process with low electricity consumption.

Materials we metallise

Unlike traditional chrome or nickel plating, PVD technology allows us to obtain a mirror coating on any material. Most often, we execute orders on metal, glass, and plastic elements such as Polyethylene (PE), Polypropylene (PP), Polycarbonate (PC), ABS, and others.

How does vacuum metallisation work?

Follow step-by-step the innovative surface refinement process using the PVD method. Learn how aluminium is evaporated in a high vacuum chamber, why atoms deposit to form a perfectly smooth, mirror-like coating, and what importance this process has for modern design and detail protection.

Read how vacuum metallisation works >>