Knurling is a machining process that creates raised patterns on metal surfaces. It improves grip, adds a decorative touch, and can help with press fits. The method uses special tools to roll or cut patterns directly into the material.

Sublimation printing is a process that turns solid dye particles into gas without going through a liquid stage. This happens when heat and pressure are applied. The gas penetrates the polymer coating on the metal surface and locks the dye molecules inside.

Grit blasting is a way to clean and prepare surfaces. It works by shooting abrasive particles at high speed against a workpiece. These particles remove unwanted layers and create a specific surface texture. The process uses compressed air or special blasting equipment.

Lapping is a process where two surfaces are rubbed together with an abrasive material in between. The abrasive can come as powders, pastes, or slurries. It removes tiny amounts of material from the workpiece. Lapping aims to create smooth surfaces, fix minor shape errors, and achieve precise dimensions.

Vapor polishing is a finishing process that uses chemical vapors to smooth the surface of a plastic part. The process starts by placing the part inside a sealed chamber. A chemical like methylene chloride is heated until it becomes a vapor. When this vapor contacts the plastic, it slightly melts and reshapes the outer layer. This reshaping fills in rough spots, scratches, and minor marks.

Bright dip anodizing is a chemical finishing process. First, the part is cleaned and degreased. Then it goes into a chemical bath that makes the metal smooth and shiny. After that, the part is anodized to form a protective oxide layer. Finally, this layer is sealed to keep the surface resistant to corrosion and maintain its shine.

PVDF coating is a high-performance protective layer made from polyvinylidene fluoride resin. It is known for excellent weather resistance, chemical resistance, and color retention. It protects surfaces against corrosion, UV rays, and abrasion.

Honing uses abrasive stones to remove small amounts of material and improve surface finish, while lapping relies on abrasive slurry between surfaces for high precision. Honing is better for cylindrical parts with tight tolerances. Lapping is better for flat surfaces or when extreme accuracy is needed. Both processes reduce friction, improve durability, and support high-performance parts.

Epoxy-coated aluminum is aluminum covered with a thin, even layer of epoxy resin. The resin bonds firmly to the surface, forming a tough, protective shell. This shell works as a barrier against moisture, chemicals, and wear. It also gives the surface a smooth finish, which can be clear or colored.

Geomet coating is a water-based protective layer made from zinc and aluminum flakes. It forms a thin, even film on the surface of metal parts. This layer blocks moisture, salt, and chemicals, helping to stop rust and wear. Since it does not contain heavy metals like chromium, it is safer for workers and better for the environment.

Brushed aluminum has been mechanically polished to create a dull, consistent grain. This grain runs in a single direction, making the surface matte. The brushing removes small imperfections and gives the metal a sleek, modern look.

Black phosphate coating is a chemical conversion process. It applies a thin, dark gray or black layer of crystalline phosphate to steel. This happens when the parts are dipped into a hot mixture of phosphoric acid and other added chemicals. The coating sticks to the metal and creates a protective surface that feels slightly rough.

Blackening stainless steel means changing its surface to a dark color. This can be done using chemical, electrochemical, or heat-based methods. These methods create a thin, solid black layer on the metal. Unlike paint, this layer doesn’t peel or chip. Depending on the technique used, the finish can look shiny or matte.

Anodized blue refers to aluminum or another metal that has been anodized and then dyed blue. Anodizing is an electrochemical process. It thickens the natural oxide layer on the metal surface. This layer is hard, wear-resistant, and porous.

Galvanized steel has a pure zinc coating, offering strong rust protection and a shiny look. Galvannealed steel, on the other hand, is heat-treated after zinc coating, making it matte, harder, and easier to paint. Galvanized works well in wet places or where looks matter. Galvannealed is best when you need a surface that holds paint or can handle scratches.

Powder coating thickness is the depth of the coating applied to a surface. It is measured from the top of the coating to the part’s surface underneath. The ideal powder coating thickness ranges from 2 to 5 mils (50-125 microns). This ensures strong protection, a smooth look, and no performance issues.