4 Types of Metal Finishes

Metal finishing is an essential process for producing strong, high-quality metallic products. This is especially true for specialized metal parts that require specific chemical, electrical, or tarnish resistances. There are also many types of metal finishes, which can impact material hardness, workflow speeds, production costs, and more.

Here are four common types of metal finishes:

1. Directional Metal Finishes

Directional metal finishes (also known as brushed or architectural finishes) are characterized by fine and uniform polishing grit lines along the length of the workpiece. This glossy, high-sheen finish provides a distinct and attractive aesthetic—while removing any edges and surface flaws. Directional finishes are typically used for stainless steel products, particularly in architectural, transportation, and home applications.

Directional metal finishes can be achieved by polishing metal workpieces with a 120-180 grit belt—then softening the finish with an 80-120 grit abrasive belt or pad.  Amtex Precision’s automated and hand-held finishing machines are specific to the making this type of finish.

2. Non-Directional Metal Finishes

Non-directional metal finishes are characterized by a consistent, non-directional pattern across the workpiece. These finishes are typically used to polish metal parts in preparation for additional surface treatment, such as paint. Because non-directional finishes lack a distinguished pattern, they’re also useful for concealing scratches and blemishes across high-contact areas.

Non-directional metal finishes are often created using orbital sanders with fine, medium, or coarse-grade sanding discs.  Amtex Precision’s hand-held finishing machines are specific to the making this type of finish.

3. Mill Finishes

Mill finishes (also known as matte finishes) are characterized by a smooth, dull surface texture. These are some of the least expensive finishing options and are often applied when a part’s aesthetic appearance is unimportant. Mill finishes can also be applied to smooth a part in preparation for further finishing or processing—and are commonly used across stainless steel products, including components for refrigeration, sewage, and dry cleaning equipment.

Amtex Precision’s metal vendors play a key role in sourcing parts with this finish requirement.

4. Mirror-Polish Finishes

Mirror-polish finishes are characterized by a highly polished and reflective “mirror-like” look. This finish is aesthetically pleasing and removes any crevices or imperfections that may contain harmful particles—enhancing the metal’s resistance to corrosive damage. The consistency, strength, and blemish-free look of mirror-polish finishes make them popular across various markets and metalworking applications.

Amtex Precision’s metal vendors play a key role in sourcing parts with this finish requirement.  All mirror finish metal is received with a protective plastic layer.  That layer is kept on the metal during processing to ensure it is not damaged or blemished.

Searching for High-Quality Metal Fabrication? 

If you’re looking for metal fabrication experts to help you engineer and produce precision parts for your needs, contact the team at Amtex Precision Fabrication at 281-489-7042 today!