Surface Finishing Services
What is surface finish?
Surface finishing is a vital process in manufacturing that enhances the appearance, durability, and functionality of metal and plastic parts. Through techniques like anodizing, polishing, and powder coating, surface finishing alters a part’s surface to meet specific cosmetic or functional requirements. This service is essential for industries requiring high-quality, custom parts with precise cosmetic and protective finishes, including automotive, aerospace, electronics, and medical devices.
Classification of Surface Finishes
We offer a wide range of surface finishes tailored to meet diverse industrial needs. Popular surface finishing options is as follows:
- Polishing: Achieves a mirror-like surface with high gloss.
- Brushed Finish: Adds a matte texture with uniform linear scratches for a sleek appearance.
- Anodizing (Type II): Provides a durable and colorful protective layer on aluminum surfaces.
- Powder Coating: Adds a protective and decorative coating with a wide range of color options.
Smooth Machining: A basic finish that reduces roughness while retaining machining marks.
Anodizing (Type III - Hard Anodizing): A thick, durable oxide layer for increased wear and corrosion resistance.
Electroless Nickel Plating: Provides uniform coverage, excellent corrosion resistance, and enhanced hardness.
Chromate Conversion Coating: Offers corrosion protection and electrical conductivity, often used as a primer.
Brushed + Electropolishing: Combines a textured brushed look with a shiny, smooth finish to enhance aesthetics while reducing surface roughness.
Vapor Smoothing: Often used for 3D-printed plastics, this finish creates a smoother, more polished surface by applying a solvent vapor treatment.
| Surface Finish | Service | Applicable to | Machining marks | Tolerances | Surface Roughness (Ra) | Corrosion Resistance | Durability/Lifespan |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 As Machined
|
CNC machining, Sheet metal fabrication. | Metals, Plastics | Visible, light surface scratches | not affected | 1.6 - 3.2 µm | Low | Medium |
 Smooth machining
|
CNC machining, Sheet metal fabrication | Metals, Plastics | Visible but reduced | not affected | 1.6 - 3.2 µm | Low | Medium |
 Fine machining
|
CNC machining | Metals | Slightly visible | not affected | 0.4 - 1.6 µm | Low | Medium to high |
 Anodizing type II |
CNC machining, Sheet metal fabrication | Aluminum | None | Met after anodizing | 0.8 - 1.6 µm | Medium to high | High |
 Anodizing type III
|
CNC machining, Sheet metal fabrication | Aluminum | None | Met after anodizing | 1.6 - 3.2 µm | Very high | Very high |
 Chromate Conversion Coating |
CNC machining, Sheet metal fabrication | Aluminum | None | Met after coating | 0.8 - 3.2 µm | High | Medium |
 Electroless Nickel Plating |
CNC machining | Mild steel, Aluminum, Stainless steel | None | Met after electroless nickel plating | 0.4 - 1.6 µm | Very high | High |
 Brushing
|
CNC machining, Sheet metal fabrication | Metals | Visible uniform lines | met after brushing | 1.6 - 3.2 µm | Low to medium | Medium |
 Polishing
|
CNC machining | Metals | None | Met after polishing | 0.1 - 0.4 µm | Low | Medium |
 Powder coating |
CNC machining, Sheet metal fabrication | Metals | None | Met before powder coating | 1.6 - 3.2 µm | Very high | High |
 Vapor smoothing
|
3D Printing | Plastics | None | Met before vapor smoothing | 0.4 - 1.6 µm | Low | High |
 Brushed + electropolishing
|
CNC machining | Stainless steel | Minimal to none | Met after electropolishing | 0.4 - 0.8 µm | Medium | High |
 Bead blasting
|
CNC machining, Sheet metal fabrication | Metals | Visible | Not affected except for specific features | 1.6 - 3.2 µm | Low | Medium |
Surface finishing Service
Before And After
FAQ
MOST FREQUENT QUESTIONS AND ANSWERSQ1: What is the difference between Anodizing Type II and Type III?
A1: Anodizing Type II is primarily for cosmetic and corrosion protection purposes, providing a thinner, colorful oxide layer. Type III, or hard anodizing, creates a thicker, more durable oxide layer, offering superior wear resistance and protection, making it ideal for parts in high-stress environments.
Q2: How do I choose the right surface finish for my project?
A2: The right surface finish depends on factors like material type, the part’s intended application, exposure to elements (e.g., moisture, chemicals), and budget. Our team can guide you through selecting the best finish to meet your performance and aesthetic requirements.
Q3: What is electroless nickel plating, and when should it be used?
Electroless nickel plating is an autocatalytic process that applies a uniform nickel-phosphorous coating to metal surfaces. It provides excellent corrosion resistance, hardness, and wear resistance, making it ideal for parts exposed to corrosive environments or requiring a hard surface.
Q4: What is the impact of surface finishes on machining tolerances?
A4: Some surface finishes, such as anodizing or powder coating, can add material to the surface, slightly altering the part’s dimensions. Others, like polishing, may remove material. It’s essential to account for these changes when specifying tolerances for tight-fit components.
Q5: What is the Ra value, and why is it important for surface finishes?
Ra (roughness average) measures the surface texture’s average height variations. A lower Ra value indicates a smoother surface, which is crucial for parts needing tight tolerances, reduced friction, or improved sealing. It’s also important for aesthetic and functional requirements.
Q6: Which surface finish provides the best corrosion protection?
Electroless nickel plating, anodizing Type III, and chromate conversion coating all offer excellent corrosion resistance. The choice depends on the material and environmental exposure. For example, anodizing is excellent for aluminum, while electroless nickel works well for a range of metals.
Q7: Can surface finishes improve wear resistance?
Yes, finishes like hard anodizing (Type III) and electroless nickel plating significantly enhance wear resistance by creating hard protective layers on the surface. These are ideal for parts subjected to heavy wear or abrasive conditions.
Q8: What materials are compatible with anodizing?
Anodizing is primarily used for aluminum and its alloys. It’s not suitable for other metals like steel or copper. However, other finishes, such as plating or powder coating, can be applied to those materials.
Q9: What is the lead time for parts requiring surface finishes?
Lead time depends on the complexity of the finish and the quantity of parts. Basic processes like smooth machining may take just a few days, while more complex finishes like anodizing or electroless nickel plating could take longer. Contact us for an accurate estimate based on your project.