To break it down to the basics
3DDC plates the parts for you with the requested layer thickness and Metalise™ it… process finish.
Metalise™ it… service
The Metalise™ it… process from 3DDC was originally developed by AT-3D SQUARED and can plate on most Rapid Prototyping (RP) plastic part(s) with the required layer thickness and metal finish. The process was originally formulated specifically for RP models, but it has also had impressive results with vacuum casting parts and plastic injection moulded models.
The most important fact to note about the Metalise™ it… process and what it brings to RP applications is that when the composite metal material is applied to the plastic part it adds a structural coating as well as a cosmetic finish. The surface finish of RP models has traditionally proved to be a limitation of the technologies. However, the Metalise™ it… process from 3DDC is an effective surface treatment of RP parts that can drastically improve these limitations and in some cases eliminate them altogether. This, in turn, opens up endless new possibilities for both current and future RP technologies. Moreover, the ability to successfully metal coat layered plastic components with this process is also closing the gap between rapid prototyping and rapid manufacturing applications. The benefit for the customer lies in the rapid availability of experimental and small series components whose mechanical characteristics are comparable in many respects with series production components.
Applying the Metalise™ it… process to specific parts has demonstrated improvements with mechanical properties such as strength, creep characteristics and aging stability. Other advantages that the process offers to RP models include resistance to moisture, temperature, humidity and corrosion — allowing the parts to be used in more aggressive and corrosive environments, which just would not be possible with the original plastic parts.
Surface finish
We offer a variety of metal finishes - simply roll your mouse over the images above to see how they look. We can also provide precious metal and custom finishes - please contact us for further details.