18 Mar How to Choose the Right Metal Finishing Techniques
Finishing techniques like anodizing and electroplating can improve performance, durability, corrosion resistance, and more.
For these reasons, many manufacturers keep using the same finishes they’ve always used. But what if there’s a better option? Every type of finish has its own specific advantages and drawbacks. Here’s how to choose the right metal finishing techniques according to function, compatibility, appearance, budget, and compliance with regulations.
How to Choose a Metal Finishing Process: Five Important Aspects to Consider
1: Function
The ultimate function of any component is usually the best way to determine the right type of finish to use.
Obviously, aerospace components are going to need different finishes than automotive parts, because they must operate in very different environments. And electronic components will need different finishes than munitions parts, because they serve completely different functions.
2: Compatibility
The next most important consideration is compatibility. Steel parts won’t always accept the same type of finish as aluminum parts. And moving parts will need a different type of finish than stationary ones.
For instance, electroless nickel plating is ideal for parts with complex geometry or faceted surfaces. And hard chrome plating is best for moving parts like pistons and gears, because it can withstand high speeds as well as heavy loads.
3: Appearance
For decorative parts, finishes like chrome plating or powder coating are usually the best options.
Chrome plating is widely used in the automotive industry for its gleaming finish and performance enhancements. And powder coating offers several different types of finishes, including matte, gloss, textured and metallic.
4: Budget
Cost concerns also come into play. If longevity is a concern, going with a more expensive coating can often make parts last longer. But for parts that are likely to be upgraded on a regular basis, going with a cheaper type of coating can ease your production budget.
For example, trivalent chrome plating is more environmentally friendly and takes less time, but it is more expensive than hexavalent chrome plating. And when lubricity is a concern, treatments like NiSlip™ coatings and PTFE-enhanced electroless nickel help reduce wear as well as the cost of maintenance.
5: Compliance
Every industry has its own set of compliance standards and regulations.
For instance, the antimicrobial and biocompatible properties of silver plating make it a top choice for medical devices. And military equipment that needs to meet ITAR regulations will benefit from coatings like CARC paint that comply with government regulations.
Expert Metal Finishing Services for Manufacturers
CRC Surface Technologies is an AS9100- and NADCAP-certified, ITAR-registered company serving clients in aerospace, defense, and many other industries. We provide 33 different types of metal finishing services and non-destructive testing to manufacturers nationwide.
Give us a call at 602-253-4175 to learn more about our services, or send a message to rfq@chemresearchco.com to request a quote.
Photo by Alex Quezada on Unsplash used with permission under the Creative Commons license for commercial use 3/14/26.