Finishing of metal surfaces is highly significant for sheet metal pieces. It makes parts look better. It also prevents rusting, scratches, and other forms of metal damage.
Metal parts made from sheets are used everywhere. You can find them in machines, buildings, cars and electronics. These parts may become worn out quickly without surface finishing.
In this easy guide, we will describe the alternatives to surface finishing in straightforward terms.
What Is Surface Finishing?
The final step in sheet metal part production is surface finishing. It is performed upon cutting, bending and welding.
- The main goals are:
- Improve appearance
- Protect from corrosion
- Increase part life
- Make cleaning easy
A wide range of manufacturers has been providing Sheet Metal Fabrication and Surface Finishing Services to meet the quality and design requirements of the parts.
The importance of Surface Finishing to Sheet Metal
Raw metal is feeble to air and water. It is easily rusted or corroded.
Surface finishing helps to:
- Stop rust and corrosion.
- Reduce wear and tear.
- Improve paint adhesion
- Add colour and style.
Good finishing will also ensure parts are less dangerous to touch. Edges and coarse surfaces are decreased.
Popular Surface Finishing of Sheet Metals
Surface finishing is a wide procedure. Each of them is used differently.
We shall take a glimpse at the most widespread ones.
Powder Coating
Powder coating is highly fashionable. It is done with dry powder paint.
The metal receives the sprayed powder. Then it is baked in an oven.
Benefits of Powder Coating
Strong and durable
Smooth finish
Many colour choices
Resistant to scratches
Outdoor parts are suited to powder coating. It shields metal against the weather.
Painting
An easy way to finish is to paint. The metal is sprayed or brushed with liquid paint.
Benefits of Painting
Low cost
Easy to apply
Many colour options
Painting may be used inside the house. But it can wear or wither away.
Anodizing
Principally, aluminium is anodised. It produces a coating over the surface.
Benefits of Anodizing
Excellent corrosion resistance.
Long-lasting finish
Clean and modern look
Electronics and panels will likely have anodized parts.
Plating
On the surface, a thin layer of metal is added by plating. Popular plating metals are zinc, nickel and chrome.
Benefits of Plating
Good protection against corrosion
Shiny appearance
Improved wear resistance
Industrial parts made use of zinc plating.
Brushing
Metal is lined and brushed to give it the appearance of smoothness. It is usually used ornamentally.
Benefits of Brushing
Clean and modern look
Hides small scratches
Easy to maintain
Appliances and panels are finished with brushed finishes
Polishing
Shininess and smoothness of the surface are achieved by polishing. It eliminates minor spots and scratches.
Benefits of Polishing
Mirror-like finish
Improved appearance
Easy to clean
Medical and food equipment is frequently polished.
Sandblasting
Sandblasting involves high-pressure air and sand. It cuts and scratches its surface.
Benefits of Sandblasting
Removes rust and dirt
Surface Prepares the surface for coating.
Creates uniform texture
Sandblasting comes before coating or painting.
Chemical Coating
Metal protection is achieved through chemical coating, where a chemical reaction occurs. Popular ones are phosphate and chromate finishes.
Advantages of Coating with Chemicals
Enhances resistance to corrosion.
Helps paint stick better
Low-cost option
Industrial parts are frequently subject to such a method.
The Method of Selecting an Appropriate Surface Finish.
The selection of the appropriate finish depends on many factors.
Ask yourself:
Will the part be indoor or outdoor?
Does it have to appear ornamental?
Will it face moisture or heat?
What is your budget?
Professional services such as the RFS’s Custom Sheet Metal Fabrication Services assist the customers in deciding on the optimal surface finishing for a given project.
Different industries: Surface Finishing.
The needs in different industries are different.
Automotive Industry
Requires tough and rust-resistant finishes
Electronics Industry
Requires clean, smooth, and corrosion-free surfaces.
Construction Industry
Needs finishes that are weatherproof.
Medical Industry
Requires easy-to-clean and smooth surfaces.
Surface finishing is primarily involved in each of these areas.
Advantages of Surface Finishing Services by professionals
The results of professional finishing are better. Skilled workers do it. They utilise the right tools and machines.
The main benefits include:
Good finish. The surface is smooth and clean. There are no rough marks.
Repeated findings: All sections appear identical. This is significant when there are big orders.
Prolonged part life. The finish prevents rust and metal damage. Parts last longer.
Improved appearance. Finished components are presentable and well-groomed. This enhances product value.
Trusted Sheet Metal Fabrication Surface Finishing Services are used to ensure that what is manufactured is strong and safe, with a chance that it is industry-standard.
Final Thoughts
Surface finishing is not only about appearances. It is the one about protection, strength and performance.
Sheet metal parts can take a number of surface finishes. There is also a use and advantage of each option.
The appropriate finish is essential, as far as powder coating and polishing are concerned.
In case you need powerful, clean, and durable sheet metal elements, it makes sense to collaborate with such professionals as the Custom Sheet Metal Fabrication Services of RFS.
The right surface finish can make your sheet metal parts more long-lasting and functional.
