Surface finishing can improve appearance, corrosion protection, wear behavior, texture, or identification. The appropriate process depends on the base material, part function, and the final surface requirement.
Common Finishing Options
- Anodizing: Forms an oxide layer on suitable metals, commonly aluminum.
- Plating: Deposits a selected metal layer for appearance or surface protection.
- Powder coating: Applies and cures a dry coating for color and environmental protection.
- Polishing and brushing: Refine the surface texture and appearance.
- Passivation and black oxide: Provide material-specific surface treatments for suitable metals.
Match the Finish to the Material
Alloys, grades, hardness, and existing surface condition can change the treatment result. Copper, brass, titanium, steel, aluminum, and plastics should not be treated as interchangeable when a finish is being selected.
What to Specify
Define the required color, gloss, texture, and protection level. Identify holes, threads, mating surfaces, or conductive areas that must remain uncoated, and include any marking or inspection requirements.