INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE
The key principle of preparation before chrome coating is to make the surface as smooth as possible. Hydroflame Chrome reproduces the base coat exactly: on a matt surface the finish will be matt; on a glossy surface the finish will be mirror-like.
All parts (except glass, ceramics and faience – see separate instructions/Section 1-2) must be coated with primer and a glossy lacquer/clearcoat or enamel.
- PRIMER COATING
- Always apply a primer.
- Recommended: acrylic primer.
- LACQUER / BASE COAT
This base lacquer will be covered with chrome. The chrome replicates the surface of the base coat down to the smallest detail.
- Any glossy 2K Acrylic Lacquer can be used.
Recommended: U-POL S2080 2K HS Acrylic Clearcoat. - Do not use water-based lacquers or enamels.
- The coating must be smooth and glossy.
- Allow the lacquer to dry fully, following the lacquer manufacturer’s instructions.
- PREPARATION BEFORE CHROME
- Flame-treat (“burn”) the lacquer coating (see Section 5.2–5.4 below).
- Degrease with isopropyl alcohol (IPA). Adhesion depends on how clean the surface is.
- HYDROFLAME CHROME COATING
- If necessary, dilute with distilled water up to 15%.
- Working temperature: +15 °C to +30 °C.
- Stir or shake thoroughly, then filter if required.
- Apply only to a glossy surface. A mirror effect will not work on a matt surface.
Application with a spray gun
- Before applying Hydroflame Chrome, remove any grease from the spray gun and degrease it. After using degreaser, rinse the spray gun with distilled water.
- Spray using a gun with a top plastic cup.
Recommended settings (HVLP):
- Nozzle: 0.5–1.2 mm
- Pressure: 2–3 bar
Coating sequence:
- Apply one light, dry coat first.
- Dry for 5–15 minutes.
- Apply the next 1–2 coats to achieve a glossy finish.
- Drying time per coat at room temperature: 25–45 minutes.
Application with a brush / other methods
- Use a soft brush, roller, or dipping method.
- Apply one light, dry coat first.
- Dry for 5–15 minutes.
- Apply the next 1–2 coats to achieve a glossy finish.
- Drying time per coat at room temperature: 25–45 minutes.
- FLAME FINISHING (MIRROR EFFECT) — IMPORTANT
ATTENTION: Allow the part to cool to room temperature before proceeding.
- To obtain a mirror effect, pass the flame of a gas burner over the surface where the chrome was applied.
- Use the tip of the flame with a light touch. Move smoothly (not slowly) in small zig-zag passes, cross-to-cross.
- Overlap passes so the flame path is continuous; do not leave gaps to avoid dark lines.
- Do not pause in one spot and do not overheat the surface.
- Over-burning may cause white spots.
- After flaming and cooling, the surface must be covered with lacquer/clearcoat.
- CLEANING EQUIPMENT
- Wash with warm soapy water.
- After washing, rinse with distilled water before the next use.
- STORAGE
- Store in a cool, dark place at +5 °C to +15 °C.
- Consumption: 100 ml per 1–1.5 m².
- TOP PROTECTIVE COAT
Hydroflame Chrome (mirror finish) requires protection from external influences.
- Apply a 2K acrylic clearcoat lacquer.
For a gold or coloured chrome effect:
- Add CANDY CONCENTRATE 10–30% by weight to the mixed lacquer (per 100 ml lacquer).
- PRECAUTIONARY MEASURES
- Cover surrounding objects to protect them from overspray and contamination.
- Use rubber gloves, eye protection, and a suitable paint respirator/face mask when working with chrome and lacquer.
FOR DECORATIVE USE
Highly flammable liquid and vapour. Causes skin irritation.Causes serious eye irritation.
May cause drowsiness or dizziness. Very toxic to aquatic life.
Very toxic to aquatic life with long-lasting effects.
Keep away from heat, hot surfaces, sparks, open flames and other ignition sources.
Do not spray on an open flame or other ignition source.
Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection/hearing protection.
IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of water
IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.
Ensure good ventilation or use outdoors, do not breathe vapours.
Keep out of reach of children.
Storage:
Keep cool. Protect from sunlight. Contains: isopropyl alcohol, silver nitrate Read label before use.
