our Metal Finishing

Mechanical Finishes.

Precision surface finishing including grinding, polishing, lapping, and blasting for optimal surface texture and appearance.

Lead Time

3-7 business days

Materials

Aluminum, Stainless Steel, Carbon Steel, Titanium, Copper Alloys, Tool Steel, Cast Iron

Certifications

AMS 2430

Industries

Aerospace, Automotive, Medical, Defense, Industrial Equipment

About This Service

Mechanical Finishes

Mechanical finishing processes modify the surface texture of metal components through physical means rather than chemical or electrochemical processes. These techniques are essential for achieving specific surface roughness, removing machining marks, and preparing surfaces for subsequent treatments.

Our partner facilities offer comprehensive mechanical finishing capabilities including precision grinding for tight tolerances, vibratory finishing for batch processing, shot peening for fatigue resistance, and various blasting media for surface preparation and texturing.

Whether you need a mirror polish for decorative applications, a specific Ra value for functional surfaces, or surface preparation before plating or coating, our network provides the expertise and equipment to meet your exact specifications.

Our Process

The Mechanical Finishes Process.

Our precision-controlled process ensures consistent, high-quality results meeting the most demanding specifications.

Surface Assessment

Current surface condition evaluated and target finish specifications confirmed.

Process Selection

Optimal media, parameters, and equipment selected for your requirements.

Mechanical Processing

Blasting, peening, tumbling, or polishing performed to specification.

Surface Measurement

Ra/Rz measurements and visual inspection verify finish quality.

Cleaning & Packaging

Parts cleaned, protected, and packaged to prevent surface damage.

Baking (High-Strength Steels)

High-strength steel parts (>180 ksi) are baked at 375°F for 3-24 hours to prevent hydrogen embrittlement. Critical for aerospace fasteners.

Sealing (Optional)

Additional topcoat sealers can be applied for extreme corrosion environments. Organic sealers fill micro-pores for extra barrier protection.

Final Inspection

Coating thickness measurement, visual inspection, and adhesion testing ensure parts meet specifications.

Industries Served

Mechanical Finishes Solutions Across Industries

Aerospace & Aviation

Automotive

Medical

Industrial Equipment

Defense

Technical Specifications

Industry standards and material compatibility for Mechanical Finishes

Compatible Materials

Aluminum

Titanium

Carbon Steel

Stainless Steel

Copper Alloys

Tool Steel

Available Processes

Vibratory Finishing

Shot Peening

Glass Bead Blasting

Aluminum Oxide Blasting

Precision Grinding

Polishing

Lapping

Tumbling

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about Mechanical Finishes services.

What surface roughness values can you achieve?

Our partner facilities can achieve surface finishes from mirror polish (Ra 2-4 microinches) to specific Ra values required for functional surfaces. Common specifications include Ra 16, 32, 63, and 125 microinches. Discuss your requirements and we'll match you with the appropriate capability.

What's the difference between shot peening and bead blasting?

Shot peening uses controlled shot to induce compressive stress in the surface, improving fatigue resistance. Bead blasting (glass bead) creates a uniform matte finish for cosmetic purposes without significant stress modification. We help you choose the right process for your application.

Can mechanical finishing be combined with other treatments?

Absolutely. Mechanical finishing is often a preparation step before plating, anodizing, or painting. Common sequences include bead blast before anodizing for a matte finish, or polishing before chrome plating for maximum reflectivity.

What are the size limitations for tumbling and vibratory finishing?

Vibratory finishing is ideal for small to medium parts that fit in finishing bowls. Very large parts may require hand finishing. We assess your part size and geometry to recommend the most effective and cost-efficient finishing method.
Ready to Experience the Aerospace Metals Difference?

Partner with a team that brings 33 years of metal finishing expertise to every project