The Process of Surface Finishing

Vanchem Performance Chemicals are the leaders in surface finishing

Metal surface finishing is a process that is known interchangeably as metal finishing or iron phosphating. The process includes the chemical treatment of metals in order to produce an inorganic, non-metallic and non-conductive layer of phosphate.

A reduction in corrosion and an increase in paint adhesion are instilled in the metals after surface finishing. Surface finishing is conducted by two main processes in industry, iron phosphating and zinc phosphating. Iron phosphates are used on indoor and some outdoor applications such as shelving, barbecues and lawn mowers. Zinc phosphate coatings are used on higher performance items such as automobiles and their components.

The allocation of stages in the process of surface finishing is reflected in the levels of paint adhesion and performance required by the customer and end user. The surface finishing process undergoes specific testing in each stage. The cleaner, pre-rinse, iron phosphating, post-rinse, and sealer are closely monitored so that each process of surface finishing is within specification.

Some of the surface finishing parameters monitored include pH, concentration, temperature, conductivity, pump pressure, and spray time. Within these controlled parameters of the surface finishing process, one discovers the precision necessary for a consistent and reproducible paint finish.

Another aspect of surface finishing is the metal itself, such as cold rolled steel, hot rolled steel, galvanized steel, zinc plated steel, aluminum, stainless steel, and so forth. Vanchem has an array of metal cleaners and iron phosphates that can effectively pretreat the metal surfaces.

Vanchem is driven to meet the highest quality standards in formulating surface finishing products for industry. For more information, contact us at our corporate headquarters in Burlington Ontario.

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