QLQ zinc alloy surface finishing equipment and process QLQ zinc alloy surface finishing equipment and process

Professional Zinc Alloy Surface Finishing Solutions

Decorative Colors

Decorative Colors

Decorative Colors groups every process in this section. The overview below shows all options side by side - click any card to open the full process page with working parameters, step-by-step procedure and QC checks.

Decorative Colors at a glance
Decorative Colors options at a glance
Gun Color Plating →
Base: Cu / NiPatina: sulfideTime: 3-15 min
Open the Gun Color Plating page for process steps, parameters and QC checks.
Golden Plating →
Base: Cu / brassFlash: Au alloySeal: lacquer
Open the Golden Plating page for process steps, parameters and QC checks.
Other Color Plating →
Colours: 8 + PantonedE: <= 1.5Batch: 5k-30k
Open the Other Color Plating page for process steps, parameters and QC checks.

How to choose

Part shape, batch size and the finish specification decide the route. Every page in this group lists working parameters and the checks that must pass before shipping. Ask QLQ engineering if your case sits between two options.

Colour control starts at the base layer

The same top coat on bright nickel and on nickel-tin reads as two different colours. Lock the base layer and the film build first, then tune the colour - otherwise every batch needs a new recipe.

Common decorative finishes

FinishLookProcess routeWear note
Bright silverCool mirrorBright nickel + chrome or clearShows fingerprints
Champagne / light goldWarm, low saturationNickel base + gold toneSensitive to base colour drift
Antique / brushedDark recess, bright reliefPlating + black dip + brushRelief wear is normal
Colour clear coatTinted glossNickel + tinted clearFilm build controls saturation

FAQ

Why do two batches look different in the showroom?

Almost always the base layer thickness or colour, not the top coat. Compare the nickel colour under D65 before touching the colour bath.

How do we approve a colour?

Approve a physical chip, record L*a*b* values and the base layer spec with it. A photo is not an approval.