As Machined
Retains the surface left by the cutting process.
SURFACE FINISHING
Function. Appearance. The finishing detail.
Explore the effect, material compatibility and specification details of each finish.
Bead Blasting
Creates a textured, low-gloss surface.
Anodizing
Develops an oxide layer on an aluminum surface.
Passivation
A chemical treatment selected for appropriate stainless-steel parts.
Black Oxide
A dark surface treatment for suitable ferrous materials.
Powder Coating
A coating option for suitable metal components.
Polishing
Improves the appearance of selected surfaces through mechanical finishing.
Surface finish comparison
Select a process specification and acceptance reference; appearance illustrations do not establish coating thickness, corrosion performance or conformity.
| Finish | Material families to review | Requirement to specify | Features to review |
|---|---|---|---|
| As Machined | Aluminum, Stainless Steel, Carbon Steel, Alloy Steel, Brass, Copper, Titanium | The starting surface | Visible tool paths can remain. Mark burr-sensitive edges and cosmetic faces; use a drawing callout when a particular surface roughness matters. |
| Bead Blasting | Aluminum, Stainless Steel, Titanium | A uniform matte appearance | Discuss texture, media and masking for threads or precision fits. Appearance samples help define what an acceptable finish looks like. |
| Anodizing | Aluminum | Aluminum surface treatment | Specify the intended type, color and critical dimensions. Identify threads, electrical contacts and fits that may require masking. Color is best agreed against a physical reference. |
| Passivation | Stainless Steel | For specified stainless grades | State the required specification and documentation. Passivation and polishing have different purposes; one is not a replacement for the other. |
| Black Oxide | Carbon Steel, Alloy Steel | Dark conversion finish | Discuss the required protective treatment and service environment. Confirm appearance and inspection requirements with the material and process route. |
| Powder Coating | Aluminum, Carbon Steel | Color and surface coverage | Provide a color reference, texture and masking instructions. Allow for the coating at mating features, and agree how visible surfaces will be inspected. |
| Polishing | Stainless Steel, Alloy Steel, Brass, Copper | A refined visible surface | Identify the faces to polish and the intended finish direction or reference sample. Protect critical edges and dimensional features from unwanted rounding. |
LET’S MAKE IT TANGIBLE
What are you working on?
Bring a drawing. Bring a sketch. Start the conversation.