4.10.4

Metals: Finishing Techniques for Metals

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Finishing Techniques for Metals

There are a number of finishing techniques that are used for metals.

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Vibratory finishing

  • Vibratory finishing involves placing metal parts in a vibrating container or tub.
    • In the vibrating container, there is abrasive media, water, and compounds.
  • The vibrations cause the media to come into contact with the metal surfaces.
    • This results in deburring, edge rounding, and surface refinement.
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Shot blasting

  • Shot blasting is a process where metal surfaces are bombarded with small, high-velocity steel shots.
  • Shot blasting is used to remove:
    • Scale.
    • Rust.
    • Paint.
    • Surface contaminants.
  • Shot blasting provides a clean and textured finish.
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Powder coating

  • Powder coating electrostatically applies a dry powder to a metal surface.
    • The powder coating is cured in an oven.
  • Powder coating can provide a durable, protective, and attractive finish.
    • Powder coating can come in various colours and textures.
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Passivation

  • Passivation is a chemical process.
  • Passivation removes impurities from the surface and creates a protective oxide layer.
    • Passivation is primarily used on stainless steel.
  • Passivation improves the resistance to corrosion.
    • Passivation can also improve the appearance of the metal.
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Laser engraving

  • Laser engraving uses a laser beam to etch or engrave designs, patterns, or text onto metal surfaces.
  • Laser engraving offers precise and detailed markings.
  • Detailed markings can be used for:
    • Personalization.
    • Branding.
    • Identification purposes.

Jump to other topics

1Core Technical Principles

2Paper & Board: Specialist Technical Principles

3Timber: Specialist Technical Principles

4Metal: Specialist Technical Principles

5Polymers: Specialist Technical Principles

6Textiles: Specialist Technical Principles

7Designing & Making Principles

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