Finishing Options in Rapid Prototyping

Posted On Jul 07, 2023


1. Spray Painting

Spray coating is the application of liquid borne materials onto a surface. It is a fast and efficient means of applying adhesive,primer,paint. Spray painting is used in a vast range of applications including prototyping, low volume and mass production.

Spray Painting

Typical Applications

Automotive and transportation

Consumer electronics and appliances

2. Bead Blasting/Sand Blasting

This is a generic term used to describe the process of surface removal by fine particles of sand, metal, plastic or other abrasive materials, which are blown at high pressure against the surface of the part and produce a finely textured finish.

Bead Blasting/Sand Blasting

Typical Applications

PC part, Metal parts

3. Powder Coating

Power Coating is primarily used to protect work from corrosion and damage. It is a dry finishing process that is used to coat a range of metalwork by either spray or a fluidized bed. The powder adheres to the part electrostatically and is cured in an oven to produce a glossy protective coating. 

Powder Coating

Currently,aluminum and steel are the most widely powder coated materials. Powder coating is suitable for both functional and decorative applications. Such as automotive, indoor and outdoor furniture,domestic and office products.

4. Anodizing

Anodizing is used to protect and enhance metal for both indoor and outdoor use. Indeed, most aluminium in the automotive,consumer electronics industries is treated this way. The surface of aluminum,magnesium and titanium can be anodized to form a protective oxide layer. It is naturally light grey, but can be electrolytically coloured or dyed, with a range of vivid colors including green, black and so on. Anodizing has 3 main stages: cleaning and etching, anodizing and sealing.

Anodizing

5. Electroplating

This is an electrolytic process used to apply a thin film of metal to another metal surface. A strong metallurgical bond is formed between the base material and coating. Electroplating produces a functional and durable finish.

Electroplating

Examples of electroplated plastic include automotive parts(gear sticks, door furniture and buttons), bathroom fittings, cosmetic packaging and trims on mobile phones, cameras.

Yoddon has years of experience in different surface treatment. The options listed here are not comprehensive, and there are additional ones available. Our team is ready to listen to your needs.