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Reference · Metal Finishes

Anodize. Plating.
Powder. Polish.
Finish per metal.

Comprehensive metal finishing reference. Anodize Type II/III for aluminum. Plating for steel. Powder coat for outdoor. Each metal accepts different finishes.

01 · Key principles

Key principles.

Aluminum anodize

Type II/III

Type II decorative, Type III hardcoat. Aluminum-specific.

Steel plating

Zn, Ni, Cr

Zinc plating cheap corrosion. Nickel decorative. Chrome wear.

Stainless polish

Mechanical, electro

Mechanical brush/polish. Electropolishing for sanitary.

Brass polish

Mirror or natural

Mirror polish, lacquer to preserve. Or accept patina.

Powder coat

All metals

Outdoor industry standard. Wide color range. Pretreatment per metal.

Nitriding

Steel surface

Surface hardened via nitrogen diffusion. Steel only.

FAQ

Pretreatment per metal?

Aluminum: alodine. Steel: phosphate. Stainless: passivation. Each per coating type.

Cost ranking finishes?

Powder coat cheap. Anodize Type II middle. Plating premium. PVD top tier.

Multi-step finishes?

Bead blast + anodize + dye standard for premium. Adds steps proportionally to cost.

Repair-ability?

Powder coat hard to spot-repair. Anodize re-anodize-able. Each per finish type.

Documentation?

Customer specs honored. Material certs + processing records + visual inspection.

Lead time?

Standard finishes 3-5 days post-machining. Custom Pantone 1-2 weeks for color development.

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