Metal Finishing Techniques To Try On Your Next Project
You can transform a metal project with a number of different finishing techniques! The type of finishing you conduct on a metal product can change its entire look and feel, as well as contribute to its durability and longevity. While there are a whole host of metal finishing techniques to choose from, four of our favorite techniques include:
Powder Coating
Powder coating can be an appealing alternative to traditional paint. It’s applied to a metal surface in the form of a loose powder coating, and is then heated to form a single “skin” over the surface. Its finish, which can be glossy or matte, is harder than that of traditional paint, which makes powder coating a good choice for projects that need a durable coating. Because powder coating doesn’t involve any liquids, it also releases fewer volatile organic compounds into the air, which is safer for both manufacturers and consumers.
Metal Vibratory Finishing
This finishing technique places a metal product inside of a vibratory finishing system, where it comes into contact with abrasive media (of which there are many types to choose from). Through abrasion, vibratory tumbling can help a metal product achieve a surface roughness and texture that’s consistent throughout. Even metal products that are hollow or have crevices can achieve desired smoothness across the entirety of their surfaces.
Sand Blasting
Sand blasting is a good way to rid a metal surface of imperfections and decrease surface roughness. Sand blasting machines – which can come in the form of cabinets or portable blasters—provide a faster way to smooth and correct a large surface area, as compared to sandpaper. Sand blasting can also be used as a first step when finishing a metal surface should you wish to apply a layer of powder coating on top.
Hot Blackening
This type of metal finishing applies a layer of black oxide to improve durability, resist against abrasion, and prevent corrosion. It’s also a way to minimize how reflective a surface may be, as its black exterior will absorb more light. As its name implies, this method of finishing requires the use of high heat and is carried out by dipping the metal into a series of liquids, the last of which is typically oil (for a glossy finish) or wax (for a matte finish).
These techniques are just the tip of the metal finishing iceberg! Follow up with our friendly team at Kramer Industries to learn more about the different types of metal finishing and which approach could make the most sense for your next project.