Surface Finishes

Surface Finish	Description	Compatible Processes	Applicable Materials
PVD Coating	Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD) is a vacuum coating process that deposits a hard, wear-resistant, and decorative thin film on metal surfaces, enhancing corrosion resistance and aesthetic appearance.	CNC Machining, Sheet Metal Fabrication, Precision Parts	Stainless Steel, Aluminum, Copper, Alloy Steels, Titanium
Electroplating	Electroplating uses electric current to deposit a protective metal layer (e.g., zinc, nickel, chrome) on substrates, improving corrosion resistance, conductivity, and surface hardness.	CNC Machining, Sheet Metal Fabrication, Fasteners	Carbon Steel, Alloy Steel, Copper, Brass, Aluminum
Electrophoresis (E-Coat)	Electrophoresis is a wet coating process that deposits a uniform, corrosion-resistant organic coating on conductive parts, ideal for complex geometries and mass production.	CNC Machining, Sheet Metal Fabrication, Automotive Parts	Carbon Steel, Alloy Steel, Aluminum, Zinc Alloys
Passivation	Passivation is a chemical treatment that removes free iron from stainless steel surfaces, forming a protective oxide layer to significantly enhance corrosion resistance.	CNC Machining, Etching, Welding, Precision Parts	Stainless Steel (304/316/17-4PH)
Powder Coating	Powder Coating is a dry finishing process that applies a durable, weather-resistant powder coating to metal parts, offering a wide range of color options and excellent impact resistance.	Sheet Metal Fabrication, CNC Machining, Structural Parts	Carbon Steel, Aluminum, Galvanized Steel
Knurling (Rolling)	Knurling is a mechanical process that creates a textured, non-slip pattern on metal surfaces, improving grip and aesthetic appeal for handles, fasteners, and components.	CNC Machining, Precision Turning	Carbon Steel, Alloy Steel, Stainless Steel, Aluminum
Laser Engraving / Marking	Laser Engraving is a non-contact process that permanently etches logos, serial numbers, text, and patterns on metal surfaces with high precision and no tool wear.	All Manufacturing Processes (CNC, Sheet Metal, Etching, EDM)	All Conductive Metals (Stainless Steel, Aluminum, Copper, Titanium, Alloys)
Mirror Polishing	Mirror Polishing is a mechanical finishing process that grinds and polishes metal surfaces to a high-gloss, mirror-like finish, removing scratches and imperfections.	CNC Machining, Sheet Metal Fabrication, Precision Parts	Stainless Steel, Copper, Brass, Aluminum, Alloy Steels
Sand Blasting (Bead Blasting)	Sand Blasting propels abrasive media against metal surfaces to create a uniform matte texture, remove machining marks, deburr parts, and prepare surfaces for subsequent coatings.	CNC Machining, Sheet Metal Fabrication, All Processes	All Metals (Stainless Steel, Aluminum, Carbon Steel, Alloys)
Anodizing	Anodizing is an electrochemical process that forms a hard, corrosion-resistant, and insulating oxide layer on aluminum surfaces, available in a wide range of custom colors.	CNC Machining, Sheet Metal Fabrication, Extrusion	Aluminum Alloys (5052/6061/7075)
Brushed Finish	Brushed Finish is a mechanical polishing process that creates a uniform, directional satin texture on metal surfaces, providing anti-fingerprint properties and aesthetic appeal.	CNC Machining, Sheet Metal Fabrication, Panels	Stainless Steel, Aluminum, Copper, Brass
Painting (Spray Painting)	Spray Painting applies a liquid paint coating to metal parts for aesthetic enhancement, corrosion protection, and color customization, suitable for both small and large components.	CNC Machining, Sheet Metal Fabrication, Structural Parts	Carbon Steel, Aluminum, Stainless Steel, Alloys