At ApexRapid, CNC machining doesn’t end when the part comes off the machine. A crucial final step is surface finishing, which not only enhances the appearance of a part but also improves its performance, durability, and functionality. With over 20 surface finishing options available, ApexRapid offers customers the flexibility to tailor parts to meet exact visual and technical requirements. Get more insights on prototype manufacturing.
Surface finishes can serve multiple purposes, depending on the application. For many customers, cosmetic appeal matters — a polished or anodized finish, for example, can make a product look sleek and professional, critical for consumer electronics or high-end industrial tools. For others, the finish adds functional value, such as increased corrosion resistance, improved wear properties, or enhanced electrical conductivity. ApexRapid understands these diverse needs and offers a broad menu of finishing techniques to address them.
Among the most popular finishes offered by ApexRapid is anodizing, commonly used on aluminum parts to create a protective oxide layer. This process not only improves corrosion resistance but also allows for vibrant, long-lasting colors, ideal for both functional and decorative applications. Another frequently requested option is powder coating, which applies a durable, colorful finish that stands up well to wear and environmental exposure.
For metal parts requiring superior smoothness or shine, ApexRapid offers polishing, brushing, or bead blasting. These techniques can produce anything from a mirror-like surface to a subtle matte texture, depending on the desired look and feel. Passivation, often used for stainless steel, enhances corrosion resistance by removing surface contaminants, ensuring longevity in harsh environments.
ApexRapid also provides plating options, such as nickel or chrome plating, which can improve hardness, electrical conductivity, or resistance to certain chemicals. Black oxide coatings are available as well, offering a cost-effective way to reduce light reflection and provide mild corrosion protection.
What makes ApexRapid particularly valuable is not just the range of finishes but the expertise the team brings to selecting the right one. Customers unsure about which finish suits their application can consult with ApexRapid’s engineers, who provide recommendations based on material, intended use, and environmental factors.
Additionally, all finishing processes at ApexRapid are backed by rigorous quality control. The company ensures that finishes are applied evenly, meet specified thickness or appearance requirements, and comply with relevant industry standards.
In summary, ApexRapid’s extensive surface finishing capabilities empower customers to achieve both the functional and aesthetic goals of their CNC machined parts, making it a one-stop shop for end-to-end manufacturing solutions.