How Are Chrome Rims Made?

Making the Base

Many people opt to put chrome rims on a vehicle to add style and class to the vehicle. All chrome rims are manufactured using a chrome plating process. This makes it possible to plate a set of existing rims to have a chrome finish. The first step in manufacturing chrome rims is to make the base, which is done using a mold and a metal, usually aluminum, (or combination of metals). The molten metal is poured into the mold. It is run through a process of heat and cold water. The rim is removed from the mold.

Preparing for Plating

The rim is shaved to remove any errant pieces of metal or rough edges. When this is done, the rim is thoroughly cleaned. It is then allowed to dry under a mesh covering, which prevents dirt or dust from getting onto the rim.

Plating

The rim is then dipped in a copper liquid. Once this layer of metal is dry, the rim is sanded and polished to ensure a smooth finish. The rim is then dipped into a nickel solution. Some manufacturers use pure molten nickel, and others use a mix of nickel and other metals. However, this information is proprietary and isn't disclosed to the public.

Final Preparation

The final step for making a chrome rim is to dip the rim into chromium. This, on top of the nickel, is what gives the rim its shiny appearance. Once the rim is removed from the chromium bath, it is hung to dry. Once it is dry, the rim is shined and polished. Finally, it goes through a series of inspections to ensure that the rim meets safety and design guidelines.