Do you have to use flash copper to plate aluminum

[krsimulis]

I am trying to figure out how to use the triple chrome plating system to plate aluminum, so I can get a kit. Do I have to use the flash copper with the zincated aluminum, or can I just use the regular copper plating system. If I do have to use the flash copper, can I then go to the nickel right after that.

Is there another way people plate aluminum. I bought an aluminum piece that someone chromed, and it wasn't plated all around, and there was no trace of the pre zincate. I think I remember reading something about people using cyanide or something like that. Just curious how that was possible.
thanks,
Kenny

[bhhodges]

you do not have to use any copper plating on it as long as its in good shape, you must zincate then nickel plate though.

the pick a kit helper on the home page will answer this same question and others similar to it as well.


bill

[NOL4154]

Re: Do you have to use flash copper to plate aluminum

Hello Kenny,
I recommend highly to plate on Al, to zincate, copper strike (50 microinches), copper plate (100 microinches) and nickel plate 100-200 microinches). Do not cut corners, remember you need to build in corrision protection and follow standard industry procedures.
Nol4154


I am trying to figure out how to use the triple chrome plating system to plate aluminum, so I can get a kit. Do I have to use the flash copper with the zincated aluminum, or can I just use the regular copper plating system. If I do have to use the flash copper, can I then go to the nickel right after that.

Is there another way people plate aluminum. I bought an aluminum piece that someone chromed, and it wasn't plated all around, and there was no trace of the pre zincate. I think I remember reading something about people using cyanide or something like that. Just curious how that was possible.
thanks,
Kenny

[CarWiz]

Re: Do you have to use flash copper to plate aluminum

Hello Kenny,
I recommend highly to plate on Al, to zincate, copper strike (50 microinches), copper plate (100 microinches) and nickel plate 100-200 microinches). Do not cut corners, remember you need to build in corrision protection and follow standard industry procedures.
Nol4154

While Nol's answer is sound, it doesn't represent the Caswell's Plating systems. I don't believe you can use Caswell's copper strike with aluminum. It's not an "industry standard" compound. It will start dissolving the aluminum as well as the zincate. The zincate dip plates the aluminum with a thin layer of zinc to stop the aluminum from corroding. The acid nickle plate strips the zinc as the plating process starts. In this case, you would use the nickel as a strike coat followed by a copper, nickel then chrome plate.

If you need a true Triple-Chrome plate, this is how you'll need to proceed using Caswell's chemicals. Otherwise, Nol4154 is correct but you may not be able to purchase the chemicals needed in his process. If you're going to use Caswell's chemicals, stick with the proven process and follow the directions. As mentioned, use the "Pick-A-Kit" helper.

[CarWiz]

Re: Do you have to use flash copper to plate aluminum

Dang it! I got suckered into answering a five-year old post again.

[woodjames]

Re: Do you have to use flash copper to plate aluminum

Hahahahhaha. That's pretty funny. Not entirely your fault. Ohh, and the flash copper sticks to zincated aluminum like glue.

[Brintiff]

Re: Do you have to use flash copper to plate aluminum

ummmm yeah, it's only a 5 year old post. maybe "NOL" should start looking at dates or get a pair of glasses.

[goldrapt]

Re: Do you have to use flash copper to plate aluminum

Ah,
but if you read NOL's post he's actually asking a question without starting a new thread.

[CarWiz]

Re: Do you have to use flash copper to plate aluminum

Hello Kenny,
I recommend highly to plate on Al, to zincate, copper strike (50 microinches), copper plate (100 microinches) and nickel plate 100-200 microinches). Do not cut corners, remember you need to build in corrision protection and follow standard industry procedures.
Nol4154

What? Where do you see a question here?

I think you read Kenny's question that Nole repeated from the old post.

[lcaswell]

Re: Do you have to use flash copper to plate aluminum

Ah,
but if you read NOL's post he's actually asking a question without starting a new thread.

No, he doesn't know how to use the quote button, unfortunately.

I'm looking for a way to warn users about posting on these old threads to try to cut down on it.

[goldrapt]

Re: Do you have to use flash copper to plate aluminum

No, he doesn't know how to use the quote button, unfortunately.

I'm looking for a way to warn users about posting on these old threads to try to cut down on it.

Ah, yes, I see now. Indeed what I saw as a question from Noel was a quote from kenny .