Selecting the right material is just the first step of designing a successful CNC-machined component. Surface finishes also play an essential role, as they influence factors such as corrosion resistance, sealing performance, surface quality, and long-term durability.
To give engineers more options for their machined parts, Protolabs Network has expanded its CNC machining surface finishes portfolio with three new surface finishes:
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SurTec 650
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Passivation
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Micro-finishing (Ra 0.4 μm)
More options for meeting application requirements
Different applications demand different surface characteristics. Some require corrosion protection for harsh operating environments, while others depend on ultra-smooth surfaces to reduce friction or improve sealing performance.
The addition of these finishes expands the ways that engineers can tailor CNC machined parts to the functional requirements of their applications.
What's new?
SurTec 650
SurTec 650 is a high-performance conversion coating for aluminum components that improves corrosion resistance while maintaining dimensional accuracy. This finish is an ideal choice for applications where lightweight parts are exposed to demanding operating conditions.
Passivation
Passivation is a post-processing treatment for stainless steel that removes surface contaminants and restores the material's natural corrosion resistance. This is commonly specified for components where cleanliness and durability are critical.
Micro-finishing (Ra 0.4 μm)
Micro-finishing achieves surface roughness of Ra 0.4 μm, making it suitable for applications where reduced friction, improved sealing performance, and high-quality surface finishes are essential.
More flexibility for engineers
Surface finishes are often the final step in achieving the required performance of a machined part. By expanding the available finishing options, engineers have greater flexibility to specify components based on the environmental, mechanical, and functional demands of their application.
Whether you're designing prototypes or production parts, the expanded CNC machining finishing portfolio provides more ways to optimize performance without changing your design.
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