What Is PVD Chrome?

There are numerous ways to give a wheel that long sought after chromed-out mirror look. One of those ways is through PVD Chrome. 

PVD stands for Physical Vapor Deposition. PVD Chrome has its roots based in the aerospace industry. Since then, it has come a long way to becoming highly popular in the automotive industry.

Unlike traditional chrome, PVD chrome combines the benefits of powder coating with the look and feel of traditional chrome plating. The use of PVD Chrome has quite a few advantages over Traditional Chrome. For starters, PVD chrome is highly durable and will outlast the life of regular chrome plating. If damaged, PVD chrome wheels can be easily and inexpensively redone. PVD chrome is 80% lighter than traditional chrome. Although it may not sound like much, it can lead to improved fuel efficiency. It is also 100% environmentally friendly, because no hazardous materials are used, and the process produces no hazardous waste.

The PVD Chrome process is as follows:

Step 1: Prepping of The Wheel

The factory finish is removed, and the wheels are hand sanded. This eliminates any imperfections. 

Step 2: Chemical Treatment

Each wheel goes through a pre-treatment wash. Only OE approved chemicals are used.

Step 3: Curing

The wheels are placed in a 400F oven. This allows the wheels to cure properly. 

Step 4: Primer Coat

Primer is applied throughout the entire wheel. The primer coat is powder coated. This allows the chrome to adhere much better to the wheel. 

Step 5: The Plating Process

The wheels are placed in a vacuum chamber. In here, the wheels and chrome are electrostatically charged. The chrome is then applied on to your wheel. 

Step 6: Acrylic Coat

Once Chrome has been applied, a clear acrylic coat is applied to ensure maximum durability. 

If you have would like to learn more about chrome, head over to Santa Ana Wheel!