Depending on the intended look and usefulness of the part, CNC turning can be utilized to generate a wide range of surface treatments on steel parts. Some of the most common surface finishes for CNC turning steel parts include:
- Bead blasted: Bead blasting is a technique that produces a smooth, matte finish on a part by abrading its surface with tiny beads. Bead blasting is frequently used to enhance the part's appearance and get rid of tool marks.
- As-machined: This surface finish is the direct outcome of the CNC turning procedure. It has an obvious tool mark texture and is harsh and matte.
- Polished: Buffing the part's surface using a polishing wheel produces polished finishes. This results in a glossy, mirror-like polish. Polished finishes are frequently used for components that need to be highly resistant to corrosion as well as decorative sections.
- Brushed: Using a wire brush, one can produce brushed finishes on a part's surface. This results in a smooth, satin-like polish. Stainless steel components are frequently given brushed surfaces to enhance their aesthetic appeal and resistance to corrosion.
- Electropolished: Electropolishing is an electrochemical procedure that leaves the part's surface smooth and bright by removing a thin coating of material. Medical implants and other things that need to be extremely clean and resistant to corrosion are frequently electropolished.
A CNC turning steel part's longevity and performance can be greatly impacted by its surface quality. For instance, a smooth surface finish may enhance corrosion resistance, but a rough surface finish may increase wear and friction. You may select the ideal surface finish for your particular application by being aware of the many surface finishes that are offered.