As a designer, a profound understanding of materials can enhance the beauty of your design, and stainless steel is a commonly used material in products. Different surface treatment techniques for stainless steel can highlight various visual effects and tactile features. From a design perspective, it is essential to understand the following 6 stainless steel surface treatment techniques.
01- Sandblasting (Shot Blasting) Treatment
Sandblasting uses compressed air to form a high-speed jet that sprays abrasives (copper ore sand, quartz sand, emery, iron sand, sea sand) onto the surface of the workpiece to change its appearance or shape. Sandblasting has strong applications in engineering and surface technology, such as improving the adhesion of bonding components, cleaning, optimizing the surface burrs after machining, and creating a low-key, durable characteristic for stainless steel products. Here are a few examples to visually demonstrate the effects of sandblasting:
02- Chemical Treatment
Chemical treatment is a general term for using chemical or electrochemical methods to generate a stable compound on the surface of stainless steel. Electroplating, as commonly mentioned, is an example of electrochemical treatment. Rust removal can be achieved using acid solutions, anodic dissolution (electrolysis), and methods like phosphate treatment, chromate treatment, blackening, anodizing, which create a protective film on the metal surface. This method can achieve intricate pattern effects, fulfilling both retro and modern design requirements.
03- Mirror Polishing
Mirror polishing of stainless steel is essentially polishing the surface to create a mirror-like finish. Polishing techniques include physical and chemical methods. It can be applied uniformly or selectively to achieve different levels of gloss, such as regular polishing, regular 6K polishing, fine polishing 8K, and ultra-fine polishing 10K. The mirror finish provides a high-end, minimalist, and futuristic feel.
04- Surface Coloring
Coloring stainless steel not only imparts various colors to stainless steel products, enhancing the variety of products but also improves wear resistance and corrosion resistance. There are various methods of surface coloring, broadly categorized as: 1. Chemical oxidation coloring method; 2. Electrochemical oxidation coloring method; 3. Ion deposition oxide coloring method; 4. High-temperature oxidation coloring method; 5. Gas phase decomposition coloring method.
05- Surface Brushing Treatment
Brushing is a commonly used technique for stainless steel products, creating straight patterns, random patterns, threads, waves, and spirals, among others. Surface brushing on stainless steel provides an excellent feel, delicate luster, wear-resistant surface, and unique texture effects. It finds widespread application in electronic devices, kitchen appliances, and mechanical equipment.
06- Spray Coating
Spray coating on stainless steel differs substantially from the previously mentioned coloring methods. Depending on the material, some paints may damage the oxide layer on the stainless steel surface. However, spray coating can achieve different colors for stainless steel products through a simple process. Different coatings can also be used to alter the feel of stainless steel. Everyday items like stainless steel water bottles often use the spray coating process.
For personalized consultation on leveraging these stainless steel surface treatment techniques for your business or design projects, feel free to reach out. We’re here to discuss how these methods can elevate the aesthetics and functionality of your products. Contact us and let’s explore the possibilities together. Elevate your designs with the timeless appeal of stainless steel.
