WHAT IS HYDRODIPPING?
Hydrodipping (also known as hydro dipping, water printing or water dipping) is a unique process that allows you to apply images to almost any 3D object. The hydrodipping process has been used for years in the automotive industry, among others. Objects such as car interior frames, airsoft guns, helmets, controllers, scooter/motorcycle covers and even trainers are decorated with hydrodipping films. There are many different materials that the film can be applied to such as plastic, metal, and wood. So hydro-dipping can be done on almost any kind of material.
Almost anything can be hydro-dipped as long as there are no electronics in it, because the object to be hydro-dipped goes completely under water. If you remove the electronics from a controller, for example, then only the housing is left and that can of course be submerged. So as long as the object can withstand water, we can hydro-dip it.
WHAT DOES HYDRODIPPING COST?
Hydrodipping is a cost-effective way to give your vehicle or object a personal and professional look without the high cost of traditional custom paint jobs. Below is a price indication for different parts that are often hydro-dipped:
- Engine cover: from €225
- Mirror caps: from €150
- Engine tank: from €295
- Interior parts: from €100
- 4 Calipers: from 300,-
HOW LONG DOES HYDRODIPPING TAKE?
The hydrodipping process varies in duration depending on several factors, such as the size of the object, the preparation work required, and the specific finishing requirements. Here is a detailed breakdown of the time each part of the process can take:
Preparation: The first and crucial step is to prepare the object. This includes cleaning, sanding if necessary, and applying a primer - specifically an adhesive primer for plastic parts. Depending on the state of the object, this step can take several hours.
Dipping: Actual dipping is relatively quick; immersing the object in the hydrodip film takes only a few minutes.
Flushing: After dipping, the object should be rinsed thoroughly to remove any slimy residue from the film. This is a quick step and usually does not take much time.
Drying: The object must be completely dry before the protective topcoat can be applied. This can vary from a few hours to overnight, depending on the materials used and environmental conditions.
Finish: Applying the topcoat, often several layers, and letting each layer dry also takes some time. This is essential to ensure a long-lasting finish.
Curing: The final step is curing the topcoat. This process ensures that the finish reaches its full strength and usually takes at least 24 hours.
Total Duration: The entire hydrodipping process can vary from one day to several days, depending on the specific requirements and logistics of the situation.
WHY CHOOSE HYDRODIPPING?
Hydrodipping is more than just a trend; it is the art of transformation. Here are a few reasons why you should opt for hydrodipping:
Unique Personalisation: With a range of designs available, from eye-catching tiger prints to sleek carbon looks, hydrodipping offers unlimited possibilities to personalise your objects.
Sustainability: Hydrodipping not only creates a stunning look, but also a robust finish that resists wear and tear and stands the test of time.
Versatility: From car parts such as brake calipers to everyday objects, hydro-dipping is suitable for almost any surface you can think of.
Cost-efficient: Compared to other custom paint jobs, hydro-dipping offers a budget-friendly way to achieve a high-quality, professional look.
Rapid Transformation: Instead of waiting weeks for a traditional spray job, hydrodipping can be completed in a relatively short time, allowing you to enjoy your revamped item quickly.
If you are looking for a way to give your items a distinctive look, hydro-dipping is the way to go. It combines style, durability and originality in one revolutionary process.
HOW DOES HYDRODIPPING WORK?
Hydro-dipping consists of a number of different steps. I will explain it briefly.
1. Preparation - sanding and degreasing. Basically the same treatment that you would do if you were going to spray the object.
2. Apply primer - To make your printed object unique, it is important to choose a nice colour primer. As you can see in the film.
3. The print film - The pattern is printed on special film that can be used on water and can thus be formed around the object so that the hydrodipping can begin.
4. Activator - This is a chemical substance that causes the film and ink to liquefy in the water and thus adhere and form to the 3D object.
5. Hydrodipping - When the activator has done its work and the foil is hydrated, we can pass the object through the foil and apply the print.
6. Rinsing - After the object has been printed, a slimy residue remains which must be rinsed off. After this has been done, the object must be dried.
7. Clear varnish - This is the last layer that gives a matt or glossy finish and at the same time protects the dipped object.
