Different Ways Of Finishing Metal

If you are the owner or the manager of a manufacturing business which can create products in various metals then you are obviously aware that metal finishing can help to create a more aesthetically pleasing end-product. At its simplest, the process of metal finishing means applying a different form of metal coating to a variety of different surfaces. This particular substance is known in the industry as a substrate which can then be finished after manufacture using mechanical, physical or chemical finishing processes. Furthermore, the use of metal finishing in the manufacturing process can enhance, protect and improve the aesthetics as well as the performance of the particular item.

Choosing the Correct Process

The process of metal finishing is more complicated than you might initially imagine while it can be carried out in a number of different ways. If you are considering using a business which specialises in metal finishing in the West Midlands to enhance your existing products, then you should consider understanding the various techniques which are available. This knowledge can help you make an appropriate choice of which particular technique is appropriate for your needs.

Plating

One of the simplest methods of metal finishing that is currently available on the market is known as plating. Indeed, this particular process deposits a coat of metal finish onto an existing substrate while the most prominent method available is known as electroplating. This particular process involves using an electrolyte solution through which an electric current is passed known as a bath, which also contains the substrate as well as dissolved ions of the particular metal which will be used as the plating. The process of electroplating is highly regulated while changing the various parameters which are available during the process of electroplating can significantly alter the end result.

Types of Plating

Some of the most commonly used types of metal that are used in the electroplating process include nickel, copper and tin while these different alloys have various benefits based on their end use. Copper is particularly effective when you need to electroplate an item which will be used on a circuit board or in semiconductors. Furthermore, tin, which is a very soft material, can be used when you want to create an affordable protection against corrosion for a particular item. If you want stronger plating material then you should consider using nickel which can also create a high degree of resistance against corrosion.

Precious Metals

In addition to the use of standard metals in the process of electrolysis, a number of precious metals can also be used, including gold, silver and palladium. These various materials can give a higher quality finish to products while they may be used in circumstances which require a high resistance to corrosion but also a high level of aesthetics. Furthermore, a number of other techniques can be used when you want to choose a particular metal finish for your items.

Therefore, you should consider which particular type of finishing you want to achieve on the end product while you will always ensure protection against corrosion, a better appearance or greater electrical conductivity by using this process.