Metal Finishing
Metal finishing is a process in which hidden surface abnormalities are found and removed with tools until a flat and even surface is created. Types of metal finishing include electroplating, electroless and immersion plating, chemical and electrochemical conversion, and other exterior finishing techniques.
Quick links to Metal Finishing Information
Metal finishing is a type of coating service. It is used to shape components as well as increase the bonding of adhesives and organic coatings of the substrate (the substrate is the object being coated). It is also used to enhance electrical properties and improve the exterior appearance of the substrate.
Metal finishing increases other properties of the substrate’s outer surface, including:
- Wear Resistance
- Electrical Resistance
- Electrical Conductivity
- Corrosion Resistance
- Chemical Resistance
- Hardness
It holds similar properties to metal coating, which is often a prior to finishing.
Metal finishing is used in many industries and applications, such as:
- Automotive
- Aerospace
- Plumbing Fixtures
- Door and Decorative Hardware
- Cookware
- Jewelry
- Tires
- Aluminum
- Stainless Steel
- Zinc
- Brass
Metal finishing is just one type of coating service. Coating is the process in which thin layers of different materials are applied to substrates. This process can manually or mechanically apply coating to metals, rubbers, ceramics, or other materials, depending on the complexity and sophistication of the coating facility and application.
Types of metal finishing include:
- Electroplating
- Electroless Plating
- Immersion Plating
- Chemical Conversion
- Electrochemical Conversion
- Exterior Finishing Techniques
Coating is meant to prevent corrosion and water damage to make the substrate more durable and cost-effective for the owner or operator.
The coating process includes three basic steps:
- Solution and Applicator Preparation
- Coating
- Drying and Solidification
When coating a substrate, it is imperative to pick out the correct coating material, as certain substrates are only compatible with certain coatings. The first step includes testing, cleaning, deaerating, and measuring the specific raw material to be coated. The final step usually involves heating and ventilation systems and heat transfer and defect mechanisms.
Tools utilized in the metal finishing process include:
- Sanders
- Grinder
- Files
- Die Grinders