Technical solutions for surface treatment of custom-made plastic parts

Plastic parts are widely used in electronics, automotive, home appliances, and medical devices. Their surface performance directly affects appearance, functionality, and service life. Below are key surface treatment technologies for custom plastic parts, along with their features and applications.

1. Painting

Atomized paint is sprayed onto plastic surfaces and cured to form a protective layer. It offers diverse effects (matte, high-gloss, metallic) and masks minor defects, suitable for mass production (e.g., phone cases, appliance panels). Note: Non-polar plastics (PP, PE) require flame treatment or primers to enhance adhesion.

2. Electroplating

Metal layers (chromium, nickel, copper) are deposited via electrolysis, providing a metallic finish, wear resistance, and conductivity. Ideal for ABS/PS parts (e.g., automotive trim, connectors) but costly and requires heavy metal wastewater treatment. PP/PE needs special activation.

3. Screen Printing

Ink is transferred through a mesh stencil and cured, enabling high-precision patterns and gradients. Cost-effective for small batches (e.g., logos, instrument scales). UV screen printing uses UV-curable ink for faster drying.

4. Laser Engraving

High-energy laser beams create text/patterns without contact, achieving 0.1mm precision. Permanent and scratch-resistant, suitable for curved/minute parts (e.g., medical device IDs, electronic component markings).

5. Sandblasting

Abrasive particles (quartz, alumina) are blasted onto surfaces to create a uniform matte finish. Anti-slip and cost-effective, it hides injection defects (e.g., tool handles, appliance knobs). Pressure and abrasive size must be controlled to avoid strength loss.

6. Vacuum Coating

Metals/compounds are evaporated in a vacuum to form nanoscale films, delivering iridescent, pearlescent, or mirror effects. Lighter and more eco-friendly than electroplating, suitable for outdoor products (e.g., cosmetic packaging, car taillights).

7. Hot Stamping

Patterns are transferred from foil via heated rollers, offering metallic/wood grain effects. Fast, eco-friendly (no waste), and ideal for mass production (e.g., gift boxes, stationery).

8. In-Mold Decoration (IMD)

Printed films are integrated with resin during molding. Internalized patterns resist wear/corrosion, and designs can be changed without mold replacement. Used for high-end products (e.g., electronic casings, automotive interiors).

Conclusion

Selection depends on plastic type (ABS for electroplating, PP for painting), functional needs (conductivity for electroplating, anti-slip for sandblasting), and cost. Proper technology choice enhances product value for custom requirements.