Materials & Surface Finishes

Select the material for function, then control the finished appearance.

Material grade, machining geometry and surface treatment are reviewed together. For color- or texture-critical parts, a visual reference or approved sample is more reliable than a color name alone.

Machining materials

Common grades include 6061-T6, 6063-T5, 7075-T6, 2011-T3 and 5052 aluminum; 304 and 316 stainless steel; H59 and H62 brass; 12L15, Q235/Q235B and 20# steel; and POM, PA6 and PA66 engineering plastics.

The best choice depends on strength, corrosion resistance, machinability, dimensional stability, geometry and the required surface appearance. If the drawing permits equivalent grades, state this in the RFQ so options can be reviewed clearly.

Aluminum anodizing

Clear and black are common, but other anodized colors are also available. Red, blue, gold and other custom colors can be reviewed against a color target or approved sample. Final shade can vary with alloy, surface preparation and batch conditions.

Texture before anodizing

Bead blasting can create an even matte texture before clear, black or colored anodizing. Appearance-critical surfaces should be identified, and thread or contact areas that must remain untreated should be marked.

Other finishes

Options can include nickel plating, passivation, vibration finishing, polishing and powder coating. Availability and suitability depend on the base material, part geometry, functional requirements and quantity.

How to specify a finish

Include the finish type, required color, gloss or texture, appearance-critical faces and any masked areas. A photo can help with an early quotation, while an approved physical sample or agreed color reference gives better control before production.

For assembled products, also identify electrical contact areas, grounding points, press fits and tight threads where coating thickness may matter.

Send the drawing, material and finish requirement for review.

Request a quotation