Finishing metal is the final step in the metal fabrication process. It adds an aesthetically pleasing look to your product and some much need protection from external elements. But to get this refined final product, you need the best equipment to finish metal to get the job done. Consider the tools you have and see if they are as optimized as possible to get the results you are looking for.
Metal Sanders
Sanders come in all shapes and sizes, which gives them a versatility that is invaluable within a machine shop. They can produce fine finishes that make metal areas ready for paint, smooth them down, or give them an extra shine.
A Choice Selection of Sanders
A few different sander variations that may help your shop include:
- Belt sander
- Disc sander
- Detail sander
- File sander
Vibratory Finishing
With the use of high-frequency vibrations, vibratory machines can give your metals extremely smooth surfaces. They are highly customizable machines that can be altered to fit your shop’s ever-changing needs, making them ideal if you take on a wide range of jobs.
Making Them Last
While vibratory finishing machines need little maintenance, there are still methods to extend their longevity that you must take, such as inspecting the lining and keeping necessary parts lubricated. They are reliable machines on their own, but it is critical that you observe the essential maintenance considerations.
Blasting Machines
Blasting machines shoot granular sand or metal pellets against the surface of the metal piece at high speeds in order to finish the piece. This serves to clean off the metal and smooth it out. You can adjust the speed, angle, and size of the pellets to control how smooth the finish is based on your needs or the desire of the client.
Different Types of Blasting
There are three different types of blasting to choose from:
- Direct – Direct blasting uses very little pressure when finishing, decreasing the chances of warping metal.
- Siphon – This type of finishing is much faster than direct but comes at the cost of a higher chance of warping metal.
- Wheel – Wheel blasting does not use compressed air in its finishing, making the process much cheaper than other options.
Best Fit for Your Shop
Some processes are faster than others, while certain finishing techniques can distort a piece of metal when it is near completion. You need to weigh the risks versus the rewards of each process to determine the best metal finishing equipment for your shop.
