The finish on a machined part changes how it looks and how it resists corrosion and wear — and it affects cost. Specifying the right one is a trade-off between function and budget.
This guide compares anodizing, plating, e-coat, DLC, passivation, deburring and surface roughness (Ra) so you can choose with confidence.
In this guide
E-Coat Finishing for Machined Parts: A Practical GuideDLC Coating for Machined Parts: Hardness and Low FrictionDeburring Methods for CNC Machined Parts: A GuideClear Coat Anodized Aluminum: A Complete GuideChrome vs Nickel Plating: Which Finish WinsAnodizing Colors Guide for CNC Machined AluminumSurface Protection for Machined PartsCNC Deburring: Methods for Clean PartsCNC Toolpath Strategies: Roughing to FinishingSerial Number Engraving on Machined PartsCNC Part Marking: Methods and Best PracticesBead Blasting Finish: When and Why to Use ItHard Anodizing vs Type II Anodizing: Which to ChooseBlack Oxide Finish: Coating Machined Parts ExplainedPassivation of Stainless Steel: What You Should KnowElectroless Nickel Plating for Machined Parts: A GuidePowder Coating for Machined Parts: A GuideCNC Surface Grinding: Precision Finishing ExplainedCNC Boring vs Reaming: A Guide to Hole FinishingCNC Machining Surface Finish Selection GuideCNC Surface Roughness: Ra Values Explained and How to Specify ThemAnodizing Aluminum Parts: A Complete Guide for CNC MachiningCNC Surface Finishes: From Anodizing to Powder CoatingVCI Corrosion Protection for Machined Metal PartsPVD Coating for CNC Machined Parts: Benefits and LimitsPolishing vs Grinding: Which Finish Should You Choose?Mirror Finish Machining for CNC Parts: Process Guide