Key principles.
Anodize, paint
Type II decorative or Type III hardcoat. Wet paint or powder coat.
Plating, paint
Zinc plating, hot-dip galvanizing, painted or powder coat.
Polish, passivate
Mechanical polishing, electropolishing, passivation.
Polish, lacquer
Mechanical polishing. Clear lacquer prevents oxidation.
Polish, patina
Polishing or controlled patina (browning) for aesthetic.
Anodize (interference)
Voltage-controlled anodize creates interference colors.
Paint, polish
Paint with adhesion primer. Polish for clarity.
Specialty
Conversion coating, painting. Reactive material.
Glazing, polish
Ceramic glaze for color. Polish for transparency.
FAQ
No. Anodize works for aluminum (Type II/III), titanium (interference colors), niobium. Not stainless or steel.
Steel: easy with primer. Aluminum: needs alodine pretreatment. Stainless: difficult, needs etch primer. Plastic: per material primer.
Citric or nitric acid removes free iron from machined surface. Restores corrosion resistance after machining.
Brass naturally darkens (oxidation). Lacquer coat preserves bright finish. Or accept patina.
Polish for bright copper. Patina for aged appearance. Lacquer coat preserves either.
Different finishes per material. Anodize aluminum, plate steel, polish brass. Integrate per design.
Get an instant quote
Send your CAD — we reply with detailed pricing, lead time, and DFM feedback within 4 working hours.
Talk to an engineer
WhatsApp our team directly. Most messages answered within 12 minutes during work hours.
Explore all services
CNC, 3D printing, injection molding, sheet metal, casting, finishing — one quality system, one partner.
Working on a live project? Send the STEP file and the two or three features you are unsure about — an engineer replies with DFM notes and a price, usually within four working hours.