6 Types of Metal Finishing Techniques that Reduce Surface Roughness and Corrosion Impact

 Summary:

Metal finishing is a final and crucial step of manufacturing that brings aesthetics, corrosion protection and reduces surface roughness. There are numerous types of metal finishes for diverse applications and you should know how it works to choose the right treatment for your metal components.

Body:

Metal components are used everywhere for centuries and to make the best out of them, they need to be finished, polished, and processed properly. It undergoes various methods to improve the surface of a product, chemical, and electrical resistance and durability. Understanding which finishing method to use can help increase the longevity and quality of products.

Finishing for different metal components is necessary to achieve the desired appearance and surface texture. Using the right treatment can ensure optimal protection from corrosion and tarnishing and enhance thickness, strength, and durability. It is best to avail professional metal finishing services to strengthen the substrate and increase the wear resistance of your metal components.

Let’s see how metal finishing works and different types used to make a significant effect on surfaces and substrates.

Why Metal Finishing is Important?

Apart from aesthetics, metal finishing is extremely crucial to reduce the wear and tear of metal products. It can help improve electrical conductivity, solderability of components, and resistance to torque. The cleaning and polishing process removes abrasions on the metal surface and minimizes corrosion, thanks to its incredibly smooth surface. Metal finishes enhance metal surfaces in the following ways:

•      Improve durability
•      Improve corrosion resistance
•      Electrical resistance
•      Abrasion resistance
•      Minimize friction
•      Create a conductive surface 
•      Visual appeal

Different Types of Metal Finishes

Electroplating

The electroplating method passes the electric current through an electrolyte, which results in metal atoms creating an electrode. For instance, zinc plating can help prevent corrosion and gold plating offers a decorative appeal. Rack plating and barrel plating are common and popular electroplating methods.

 Electrocoating

Electrocoating follows the same fundamentals as electroplating, however, it carries electrically charged paint particles that build a primer over a substrate. It helps with adhesion when a product is required to be painted.

Passivation

Passivation is a chemical procedure wherein parts are submerged in nitric or citric acid to remove corrosion substances. It limits the amount of iron that responds to the environment causing rust and creates a protective shield without transforming the physical appearance of the product. It is easy to implement in several materials like silicone, stainless steel, aluminum, and nickel.

Powder Coating

Powder coating is an effective powder-based alternative to a liquid form that ensures greater thickness, desired protection, and aesthetic appeal. It combines various pigments, curatives, flow modifiers, and other additives, resulting in a chemical reaction that forms the coating and substrate.

Buff Polishing

Buff polishing is a great alternative to electropolishing that doesn’t undergo an electrochemical process. It brings a smooth and shiny finish, best suited for metal components that require a top-quality appearance.

Metal Grinding

It is a process wherein a component is reduced by grinding away metal ions. It involves a machine that utilises abrasion and friction to smoothen the metal surface. It is ideal for hard materials such as hardened steel that needs shallow cuts.

Conclusion:

Choosing the right metal finishing technique is essential to attain numerous benefits like corrosion protection, rust resistance, and durability. Narrow down a few choices to make a wise decision that includes production speed, metal hardness, and cost-effectiveness. The resulting appearance of a final part and its feasibility for different applications can be vital determining factors.

About the Author:

A leading supplier of high-quality and long-lasting metal finishing with quick turnaround times, offering a wide range of solutions for metal components such as plating carbon steel parts, stainless steel passivation, black oxide coating, zinc-nickel plating, sandblasting, and shot peening.