Metal Surface Treatment

Surface treatment is part of the manufacturing process, not simply a final cosmetic step.

For custom and OEM components, the surface treatment needs to be considered together with the material, manufacturing process, dimensional requirements, functional surfaces, corrosion environment, appearance, and final use of the product.

Aikerly works with qualified manufacturing resources to coordinate suitable surface treatment processes for magnesium alloys, aluminum alloys, titanium alloys, and other metal components.

Surface Treatment Considerations

The appropriate treatment depends on the material and the purpose of the component.

For magnesium alloys, surface treatment may be used to improve corrosion protection, surface durability, wear resistance, appearance, or compatibility with subsequent coating and finishing processes.

For aluminum alloys, treatment may be selected for corrosion protection, surface hardness, appearance, dimensional requirements, or preparation for painting and coating.

For titanium alloys, surface treatment may be used to modify surface hardness, wear behavior, friction, appearance, or surface properties required by the application.

The treatment is selected according to the component requirements rather than applying the same process to every material or product.

Available Surface Treatment Processes

Depending on the material, component design, and project requirements, Aikerly can coordinate processes including:

• Anodizing

• Micro-arc oxidation (MAO)

• Powder coating

• E-coating

• Electroplating

• Trivalent chromium plating

• Black oxide

• Bluing

• PVD coatings, including titanium silicon nitride (TiSiN)

• Laser marking

• Laser engraving

• Laser etching

Other surface treatment processes can be considered when required by the material, component, or production route.

Surface Treatment in Custom Manufacturing

For a custom component, surface treatment is coordinated with the preceding manufacturing processes.

The sequence may include:

Material Selection → Casting / Forging / Machining → Dimensional Inspection → Surface Preparation → Surface Treatment → Final Inspection → Finished Component

Aikerly considers interfaces, machined dimensions, masking requirements, surface appearance, coating thickness, and other agreed requirements when coordinating the treatment process.

For critical components, surface treatment requirements can be included in the production and inspection requirements provided to the manufacturing facility.

From Process to Finished Component

Aikerly's role is not limited to identifying a surface treatment process.

For custom and OEM projects, we connect the surface requirement with the material, manufacturing route, production facility, inspection requirements, and final product.

This helps ensure that surface treatment is completed as part of the overall manufacturing process and that the finished component meets the agreed technical and appearance requirements.

Need surface treatment for a magnesium, aluminum, titanium, or custom metal component?

Send us your drawing, material requirement, surface specification, or component details. Aikerly can review the requirements and coordinate a suitable manufacturing and surface treatment route.