FAQ: Liquid Metal Innometal Italia
find out more about our product and our services
Welcome to the fascinating and versatile world of products made from liquid metal by Innometal Italy. Through our craftsmanship and advanced technology, we transform liquid metal into functional and aesthetically stunning works of art.
Our product.
- What is Innometal Italia liquid metal?
Innometal Italia liquid metal is an innovative material that combines the versatility of metal with the flexibility of a liquid. It’s a material finish that can be applied to a variety of surfaces, transforming ordinary surfaces into extraordinary works of art.
- What products are available?
We offer a wide range of liquid metal products, in over 20 different metals with 3 different types of binder, from bronze tones to shining reflective shades, applicable with spray or spatula using our solvent-based resins or the water-based version. The creative possibilities are virtually limitless.
- Differences between solvent-based and water-based?
Both variants offer outstanding results, but the solvent-based is known for its durability and strength, making it ideal for outdoor applications. The water-based option is more environmentally friendly and has quick drying properties, making it perfect for indoor applications in healthy environments.
- What are the types of application?
The liquid metal Innometal Italia can be applied by spray, brush, spatula as well as specialised tools to realise details, textures or any desire the mind can process.
- Differences between outdoor and indoor use?
Innometal Italia’s liquid metal finishes are designed to withstand the challenges of outdoor environment, thanks to their durability and resistance to atmospheric agents. For interiors, they offer an unparalleled touch of luxury and personality.
- On which substrates can I apply liquid metal?
Innometal Italia liquid metal can be applied to a wide range of substrates, including wood, MDF, plastic, resin, polystyrene, stone and glass. This versatility allows you to bring unique and captivating projects to life.
- Can I customise finishes and colours?
Absolutely! Innometal Italy offers a wide range of colors and finishes, and we are able to customize solutions to meet your needs and unique style.
- How are liquid metal finishes applied?
Liquid metal finishes can be applied by skilled craftsmen through various techniques, including brushing and spraying. These processes ensure consistent and stunning results.
- What are the benefits of using liquid metal?
In addition to stunning aesthetics, liquid metal offers durability, weather resistance, and sustainability. It’s an eclectic choice to transform any space or object into an unparalleled work of art.
- Where can I see Innometal Italia products in action?
You can visit our Showroom at Innometal Italia headquarters in Schio (VI) by appointment. Here, you can explore a wide range of samples showcasing the various applications and finishes of liquid metal.
The Manufacturing Process
- Substrate Preparation:
Innometal finishes can be directly applied to various types of substrates, although for optimal performance it is recommended to use a suitable primer or base coat to ensure the best possible adhesion.
- How do I apply the product?
Innometal liquid metals can be applied in various ways, depending on the desired final result. For example, if you want a smooth and highly polishable finish, you should apply the product by spraying. If you desire a highly textured and material finish, you should opt for a spatula/brush application.
- How many layers?
Innometal is mainly applied by spraying. In this case, it’s necessary to apply the product in a single coat with even coverage. Applications using a spatula, or with specific textures can also be applied in multiple coats as desired.
- Passivation/Drying
After application, the metal needs to dry for an average of 12 to 16 hours for the solvent-based version, and up to 24 hours for the water-based version, taking into consideration the applied thickness.
For the solvent base version, drying times can be reduced by using heating ovens; at about 60 degrees, passivation can be reduced to 2 hours. In the water-based version, the use of heating ovens is not recommended during the first 10 hours of passivation.
- Processing the applied metal:
We can refine the obtained surfaces in various ways, such as sanding, brushing, polishing, aging, and oxidation. Each individual action should be evaluated based on the desired application and result.
- Protection of the achieved finish:
All metal surfaces obtained at this stage are subject to natural aging and oxidation, similar to pure metal. Therefore, you can choose whether to leave the finish as is or stabilize it according to specific needs using waxes, nanotechnology, and transparent coatings.
- Equipment:
For the application, finishing, and protection of liquid metal surfaces, conventional gravity guns and/or pressurized tanks are used for larger surfaces. The processing is typically done using air or electric rotary orbital sanders with metal abrasives. Finishing and protection are carried out using products designed for metallic surfaces with conventional gravity guns.
Properties
- Thicknesses
Liquid metal applications vary in thicknesses based on applications and resulting textures. The indicative minimum thickness is 0.1mm for spray applications and can reach 2-3mm for water-based applications with fillers, where layers can be overlapped in multiple coats.
- Coverage
The application varies based on the desired finish type and the specific weight of the metal. For spray application, coverage starts at around 600g/m² for Aluminum and can go up to 1200g/m² for the same application in Antique Bronze. This demonstrates the different coverage levels of metals on opposite ends of the specific weight spectrum.
- Shrinkage
Innometal, being a composite metal, does experience shrinkage; however, these are easily manageable and can be programmed according to project specifications.
- Flexibility
Innometal liquid metal is a highly rigid product, but this does not necessarily limit its application to rigid surfaces only. It can be applied with certain limitations even on flexible materials and surfaces, such as very thin layers of fiberglass.
- Outdoor:
Solvent-based Innometal is compatible with the outdoor environment even without additional protection. This ensures maximum adhesion and long-term durability. Laboratory tests and related certifications confirm the product’s quality. If left unprotected, it ages and oxidizes like real metal.
- Conductivity
Applied Innometal products do not conduct electricity.
Distribution and Our Services
- Customers
Innometal is a product specifically designed for professional users, while the water-based version can also be used by private individuals.
- Product samples
Minimum batches are available to try out Innometal materials. Thanks to the sample kits, you can test various metals with different available binders. Contact us to request the kit that best suits your needs.
- Application samples:
Innometal Italia customers can purchase from Innometal Italia business card size sample boxes with 3 or 10 cards, it is possible to choose how to compose the box based on the materials available, contact us to request and customize your Sample box.
- Kit:
Innometal is supplied in complete kits, the solvent-based kits are made up of a powder part, binder and catalyst, the water-based version is made up of a powder part and binder, all the kits indicate the total weight of the product ready for application.
- Services:
Innometal Italia is the Distributor of the products for the Italian territory following a twenty-year experience in the application and finishing of the products themselves, we can therefore assist you in the formulation of particular and personalized cycles, in the production of samples, small series and unique pieces.
- Training
Innometal Italia, at its headquarters in Schio (VI) organizes specific training courses, three distinct levels that allow you to acquire all the secrets of liquid metal finishes and their application and finishing, these can be further adapted to better fulfill the client’s specific needs.
The Training service upon request can be carried out at the customer’s premises.
- Equipment and auxiliaries
We provide assistance in the supply and selection of equipment, abrasive and polishing products, guns and power tools, as well as all products for priming and finishing cycles.