What are the Options for Metal Finishing?
When your sheet metal assembly is complete, you will want it to look its best and have a lasting finish that reflects your brand. Metal finishing options at Midwest Metal Products include durable powder coating and custom painting and plating, with two additional processes to ensure lasting custom-painted finishes.
Powder Coating
Powder-coated metal assemblies will last up to 20 years and provide the optimal chemical, corrosion, and weather-resistant finish. One coat is all that is needed, and the electrostatic process ensures minimal waste of product. The final step in the powder coating process is to bake the coating onto the surface. The result is a very hard finish that stands the test of time. Learn more about the durability of powder-coated metal surfaces.
Painting
For a highly customizable and inexpensive finish, wet painting is a top choice. This is also the best choice if the metal assembly cannot endure the heat of the powder coating oven. However, painted finishes are not as durable as powder-coated finishes. The finish may require multiple coats of paint, but the completed finish is still thinner than powder coating.
With wet painting, your company colors can be matched exactly, making your equipment stand out. In addition, we can silk-screen your logo onto your metal assembly or enclosure. Other labels and instructions can also be silk-screened onto metal assemblies. For outdoor applications, UV ink can be used to ensure your logo’s colors stay true for years to come. See examples of silk screening and learn more about our process.
One way to make painted assemblies more durable is to add a clear powder coat. The powder coating will help minimize wear and tear. However, your assembly must be able to withstand the high temperatures of the powder coating process.
Chromate conversion provides a cost-effective primer for paint, lacquer, or rubber bonding—primarily for aluminum products. Our NADCAP Certified process uses RoHS/REACH-compliant chem-film that maximizes corrosion resistance and eliminates powder areas, breaks, and scratches. Learn more about the chromate conversion process.
Plating
Plating involves a process of depositing and fusing metal onto a conductive surface. Heat and pressure are applied to bond one metal to another. Chrome plating is one example of plating used for decorative purposes. Plating can also inhibit corrosion, reduce friction, and harden surfaces.
Learn more about plating as well as painting and powder coating from this blog post.
Whether your sheet metal assembly or enclosure will be used indoors or outdoors or in harsh environments, our experienced finishing experts can ensure a durable, eye-catching appearance. Contact us to request a quote for sheet metal fabrications finished to your specifications.
