Although we all desire to 3D-print metals, the equipment is not available in most homes. However, [HEN3DRIK] Takes resin 3D-printed objects and electroplates them. It might not look as metallic as printing in metal but it does look great. The sword appears to have been made of highly polished steel, as shown in the video.
Four pieces are required to make the sword. He repeatedly reiterates that sanding is key as you need flat surfaces. He worked the parts to a perfect finish using steel wool and sandpaper. To form a complete assembly, the parts are arranged along an M8 threadedrod. Next, we electroplated with copper.
Because the sword was so large, it was necessary to scale up his usual electroplating setup. Of course, the resin isn’t conductive, so an airbrush deposits a conductive lacquer before the parts go in the bath. The process is also helped by copper wire.
If you don’t like post-processing parts, this technique isn’t for you. There’s a lot of sanding before and after electroplating. It takes patience to plat, especially for copper plating. Nickel plating is a very dangerous process that adds a shiny coating and a thin layer of palladium. An electroplating pen adds gold accents.
The sword looks amazing, but it obviously wasn’t a quick one-hour project. Electroplating is dangerous and you should consider safety.
Last time we checked-in [HEN3DRIK] He was working on a Star Wars prop. You can also make your own DIY electroplating pen.