SURFACE FINISHES

SURFACE FINISHING The application of a finish to manufactured products requires further processing and handling after the product or component has finished being physically manufactured. This therefore introduces additional costs which. The benefits of ‘self-finishing’ manufacturing processes are therefore many. Why surface finishing is required To improve the aesthetic qualities of a product. To mask minor imperfections left after the manufacturing process. To protect the material from corrosion. To enhance the properties of the surface of the product in some way.

SURFACE FINISHING The precise nature of the finish and its application will vary greatly depending on the material. However there are specific stages that are always required: Stage 1 – surface preparation. degreasing, cleaning, keying. Stage 2 – priming/undercoating. (Not necessary with some finishes) Stage 3 – application of finish.

SURFACE FINISHING Types of finish Electroplating – electrolysis is used to build up a layer of a metal onto the surface of the product. Eg chrome Can be used on plastic products also. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z7f7dQF2KLA Galvanizing – coating with zinc, usually achieved by dipping hot metal in a vat of liquid zinc, (hot dip galvanizing). http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c2J07n5hSbs Plastic powder coating – metal products heated to a specific temperature and suspended in ‘fliudized’ thermoplastic powder. Plastic melts onto surface. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DLRh6rGgcS0

SURFACE FINISHING Types of finish continued… Electrostatic powder coating – similar to above except plastic/paint particles are electro statically charged as they are sprayed on. Product is then heated in a kiln to melt/cure finish. In this way a very even coating can be achieved. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wUT4uNUkTiA Other less notable but possibly more common finishing methods are: Painting – wood, metal, plastic Varnishing - wood Waxing - wood Anodizing – metal (aluminium) Lacquering – wood, metal