Metal finishing is a major industry that is essential to any manufacturing that involves the use of any type of metal.

It is a process of applying a thin coating or layer to the surface of metal objects to improve the appearance and durability.

There are many different types of metal finishing. Selecting the appropriate process for you depends on its purpose, read on to find out which is right for you.

1. Metal Plating

This is a process in which a chemical bath coats the surface of the object with thin layers of metal.

This is an electroplating technique that generates an electric current, in contrast to an electroless plating process in which the surface of the metal object is the catalyst for a reaction.

2. Brushed Metal Finishing

This is a method that is used to remove imperfections from the surface of an object. It works to improve the overall appearance by smoothing the surface of the product. However, it leaves a grainy texture to the surface of the object.

It works to improve the overall appearance by smoothing the surface of the product. However, it leaves a grainy texture to the surface of the object.

3. Powder Coating

If you prefer your object to have a more decorative finish, powder coating is right for you. It resembles paint, however, it lasts much longer.

By melting dry powder on the metal, a matte and glossy appearance is produced. If you don’t want any blemishes on your object, this could be the most suitable technique.

4. Buff Polishing

This is a technique that is in many ways the opposite of the powder coating process. It is used to round the edges and corners of a metal object. And it results in a glossy and shiny surface.

This is unsuitable for delicate or fragile objects, but appropriate for basic shapes.

5. Metal Grinding

This technique uses a grinding machine against the metal object. It results in a finite smooth surface of the object. It is suitable for metals including gold, silver, platinum, and copper.

It is suitable for metals including gold, silver, platinum, and copper.

6. Metal Vibratory

The metal vibratory finishing method uses a machine to remove sharp and extruding edges. This is appropriate for both small and large objects.

The speed of the vibratory machine determines the extent to which the surface of the object is rough or smooth.

7. Sand Blasting

The sandblasting, also known as bead blasting, is a process is used for objects that don’t need a glossy texture and appearance.

As the name suggests, the process shoots sand, beads and other abrasives into the exterior of the object at speed. This creates a clean and smooth finish.

The technique is especially suitable for soft metals.

8. Hot Blackening

The final metal finishing technique is hot blackening, in which a layer of black oxide is applied to the object that results in a matte black color. The process involves the object being under a temperature in a series of machines.

With so many different techniques, working out the right metal finishing process for your manufactured products can be overwhelming. However, with this handy guide, you determine which is the right process for you.

Have any questions? We have answers.