Surface Finishes

Surface Finishes

1. Files

   • Used to smooth & shape surface of metals by dragging the small teeth along material.
   • Made from hardened & tempered cast steel.
   • Different shapes
     • Flat, half round, square,round & 3 square.
   • Different size teeth
     • Rough, bastard, second cut, smooth cut & dead smooth.

2. Abrasive paper/cloths & machines

   • Emery cloth
     • Torn in strips & used in 2 handed manner.
     • For use on metal & plastic.
   • Linishers/sanding machine
     • Abrade metals.

3. Polish

   • Slightly abrasive
   • Cuts away the surface of metal until smooth.
   • Can be in liquid form or wax bar.

4. Coatings

   • Plastic dipping coating, aka Polythene.
     • Used for dishwasher racks, coat hooks & tool handles.

5. Anodising

   • Used on aluminium to provide durable corrosion finish.
   • Involves electrolysis.
   • Uses acids & electric currents.

6. Plating

   • Uses electrolysis.
   • Chromium plating is most common.
   • Thin layer of metal on surface provides durable finish that's resistant to corrosion.

7. Galvanising

   • Involves dipping metal into molten zinc.
   • Zinc provides very corrosion resistant finish.