On-Demand Surface Finishing and Coating Of Your Parts at Our One-Stop-Shop
Let DEK be your one-stop-shop and don’t waste time dealing with multiple manufacturers. We can produce your high-precision parts, apply the necessary surface coatings, and deliver the end parts ready for application. With our full-service manufacturing and our advanced technologies, you’re covered from start to finish!
Premium Quality Surface Coating at an Affordable Price
DEK uses only high-quality materials and produces premium quality parts that live up to the highest industry standards. With the help of our agile and innovative technological processes, we can preserve our quality while keeping the most competitive pricing on the market.
Customized Surface Finishing Services and On-Demand Orders
Here at DEK, the client always comes first! We adjust to your needs and work with no minimum order quantities. So, no matter how complex, small, or big your order is, we’re there for you at any time! Custom on-demand orders of any size – that’s our philosophy.
We Offer a Variety of Surface Coatings and Technologies
Polishing
If you need a high-quality surface and an extra smooth surface of your metal parts, DEK’s polishing surface coating is the best option for you! With our affordable on-demand polishing service, we can help perfect your parts for industries like dentistry, jewelry, casting, or ironwork.
DEK’s anodizing surface coating is an electrolytic process of passivation that we give to metals like aluminum or titanium when we want to boost the parts’ resistance, durability, and general lifespan. With anodizing, you get a durable yet elegant surface coating for your parts.
Need to remove color or impurities from your parts? Then DEK’s bead blasting service is what you need! With bead blasting, we use tiny and extremely fine glass beads that create an abrasion effect and smoothen and clean the surface of your automotive or other machine parts.
If you want parts with a surface that’s 50% smoother and esthetically pleasing, DEK’s electropolishing coating could be the service you need! As a bonus, by electropolishing your metal parts, you’ll increase their corrosion resistance and make them more durable.
DEK offers black oxide as a surface coating for providing increased corrosion resistance and minimizing the reflection of steel, cast iron, or other ferrous metal parts. If you need long-lasting and water-resistant parts, ask for DEK’s black oxide surface coating!
With DEK’s powder coating service, we apply a premium quality dry powder in any color on your metal parts to achieve increased durability, resistance, and a change in aesthetics. Whether you have a small batch or a bulk order for powder coating, DEK will meet your needs!
DEK can use spray paint as a surface finish for your parts if your goal is to change colors or improve the appearance. We work with all order sizes, from prototypes to bulk orders, and we can spray paint parts made of any material!
At DEK, we offer on-demand electrophoretic coating as the best option for high-precision parts with complex geometries and intricate details. By submerging the parts into a type of “electro paint bath”, we get the coating to stick to the pieces. You choose the color!
DEK uses Plasma Electrolytic Oxidation (PEO), otherwise known as electrolytic plasma oxidation (EPO) or micro-arc oxidation (MAO), for metal parts that need oxide-ceramic layers on the surface. With PEO, you can increase the resistance and lifespan of all your high-precision metal parts.
Working with market leaders in the On-demand manufacturing industry, without the busyness and risk.
One-Stop-Shop
No more wandering around and searching for different manufacturers for different processes. DEK can produce ready parts, from the initial CNC machining to the final surface coating. With DEK, you have CNC machining, 3D printing, wire forming, and surface finishing all in one spot!
No MOQs
We have a zero MOQ policy and can produce or treat any part at any quantity you need. From small batches to bulk orders, DEK does it all! We work quickly, efficiently, and on-demand to meet our clients’ needs!
24/7 Support
DEK’s clients enjoy a 24/7 open communication line, 365 days a year! We understand the time-sensitivity of the industries we work for and strive always to put the client first. Get in touch at any time, we’re here for you.
Cutting-Edge Technology
DEK is a leader in the market when it comes to the latest technological advancements. We possess the best high-tech CNC 3, 4, and 5-axis machines and technologies that allow us to produce parts with the tightest tolerances and smoothest surface finishes.
Affordable Cost
At DEK, we’ve automated and perfected our processes to cut costs and make us faster and more efficient wherever possible. As a result, we can now provide the most high-quality services at the best prices on the market!
High-Quality Materials
Regardless if we’re producing a part with CNC machining or we treat a ready part with a surface coating, we always use the best quality materials on the market. With DEK, you can be sure of the safety and durability of your parts.
Quality is our top priority
“QUALITY COMES NOT FROM INSPECTION, BUT FROM IMPROVEMENT OF THE PRODUCTION PROCESS.”
To DEK, Dr. Deming’s textbook remark is not a theory, but a practice we have been conducting every single day. We work on the principle that quality comes during the process of manufacturing, not after the fact.
We use advanced production technologies and strict control systems to ensure high quality. More importantly, the quality-oriented attitude has been so entrenched in the mind of every single employee.
Through the online form or send an email to austin@dekmake.com directly, and please describe your requirements in detail and attach 2D/3D drawings, then you will get our reply within 6 hours.
Yes! Other suppliers are afraid of precision parts, but we like precision parts very much. This is because we have rich experience in the production of precision mold components, the tolerance we did can reach ±0.001mm, which is impossible for 99.9% of prototype manufacturers.
Definitely! Our predecessor is precision machining shop, and 100% inspection of each part is our daily basic work. We will check the size, tolerance, color, and other details before leaving the factory. If you need an inspection report, we will send it with goods together.
“
It's our honor to be their best partner
I’ve used DEK’s PEO service twice already, both times with pretty tight deadlines. Needless to point out, they were always on time when I needed it most. Their manufacturing capabilities are immense! I definitely recommend DEK for anyone on a tight deadline.
Mark B.
DEK offers the best quality vs. price ratio on the market! They’re the most budget-friendly yet serious manufacturer I’ve come across. But even more critical for me, the communication and entire process were flawless. No miscommunication like with other suppliers!
Arthur L.
Are you looking for more information or want to get an accurate quotation?
If you need a professional business partner to provide you high quality, cost-effective, timely, and risk-free manufacturing services, we are the first step towards success.
Surface Finishing (Coating): The Ultimate FAQ Guide
We’re at your disposal to answer any outstanding questions you still might have on the subject of surface finishing or surface coating. Here are all your answers!
Table of Contents
What is surface finishing?
The term we’re searching for is “surface coating”, aka surface finishing, which is a process of perfecting the surface of a machined plastic or metal part in order to achieve a desired appearance, property, or performance.
Every machined part has its own surface roughness, which might not be appropriate for its application. To perfect the surface of the part, we use different types of surface coatings.
With surface finishing, you can achieve a smoother surface, better resistance, insulation, etc. It all depends on the material and type of coating or treatment used.
In their most general sense, there are two types of surface finishing processes:
Processes that add a layer – for instance, spray painting and powder coating;
Processes that remove a layer – typically abrasive processes like polishing, bead blasting, electropolishing, etc.;
What are the advantages of surface finishing?
These are some of the most significant benefits of surface finishing for your parts:
Decreasing roughness and a better smoothness
The first reason our clients ask for surface coating is to achieve an increased smoothness of their parts. Procedures like polishing, bead blasting, or electropolishing can help with this. Of course, the process you choose also depends on the material of the part and its application.
Removing surface layers and impurities
We also use a surface coating or surface treatments to remove an unnecessary surface layer or impurities. Often, we do this as a preparation for a further process. For instance, when polishing a part for spray paint to stick better. Or as a single process simply for better smoothness.
Increased water and corrosion resistance
With surface treatments like anodizing or electropolishing, your parts will become more water-resistant, making them less prone to corrosion as a result. Resistance to external elements and increased part quality is another reason why surface finishing is so important.
Decreasing friction and increasing durability
With high-performance parts exposed to movement and friction, the roughness of the surface can seriously affect their durability and lifespan. Rougher surfaces are exposed to greater friction, making them more prone to damage and less durable than smoother parts.
Changed or improved aesthetics
In some industries like automotive or consumerism, surface coating as a process can be a way to improve or alter the visual aesthetics of a specific part or machinery. Spray painting of external auto parts is an excellent example of this.
What surface finishing type is usually used in metal parts?
For metal parts, we typically use some of the following surface coatings, depending on the material and intended application:
Anodizing
With anodizing, we use an electrolytic passivation process which gives your parts a layer with an increased thickness, durability, and resistance to corrosion. We use anodizing as a surface coating treatment in the manufacturing of electronics, automotive industry, construction, etc.
Polishing
Another surface finishing we use for metal parts is polishing. By polishing the parts, they get a smooth and shiny surface, which is commonly needed in jewelry, dentistry, and similar applications.
Electroplating
If you want to achieve a golden, silver, or chrome finish of your part that’s esthetically pleasing, electroplating could be the surface finishing you need. Electroplating is an electrochemical treatment that isn’t abrasive but only adds a layer on top.
Electrophoretic Coating
With this type of electro-paint bath, we submerge the parts and give them an extra layer of protection no matter how complex or small their geometry is. An electrophoretic coating is also an excellent surface coating for parts that need a change of color.
Powder Coating
By spraying the parts with a powder coating, we can add a layer of protection to any metal or plastic part you need. Visual appearance can also be changed with powder coating, although it has its limitations when it comes to the thickness of the layer.
Bead Blasting
We use bead blasting as a surface treatment when we don’t need a change of color but simply to remove a layer or clean any impurities from the parts. Bead blasting is an abrasive process that aims to increase the smoothness and clean a surface thoroughly.
Plasma Electrolytic Oxidation (PEO)
If you need parts with increased longevity and resistance to corrosion and heat, PEO could be the surface coating you need. With PEO, we transform the surface of any metal part into ceramic oxide, giving them a longer lifespan as a result.
Black Oxide
For parts made of ferrous metals such as stainless steel, cast iron, or steel, black oxide is an excellent surface coating that offers increased protection when needed. By choosing black oxide for your parts, you boost their resistance and anti-corrosion properties.
Spray Painting
One of the most commonly used surface coatings for both metal and non-metal parts is spray painting. With spray painting as a surface finishing, you can get any color and property desired. That’s why it’s used in many different industries such as marine, decorative, automotive, etc.
Electropolishing
Electropolishing can be a great option for durable and corrosion-resistant metal parts that also need to be esthetically pleasing and smoother. With electropolishing, we can achieve a surface that’s 50% smoother than before!
What surface finishing type is usually used in plastic parts?
Plastic parts are typically manufactured with CNC machining, injection molding, or 3D printing. Depending on their manufacturing technology and material, they all have different recommended surface coatings. These are some of the most commonly used ones:
Sanding (sandpaper)
Sanding or sandblasting is the first surface treatment you can choose for your plastic parts. Typically, sanding will remove all the impurities from the surface and result in a matte surface since it’s still a rougher surface treatment.
Bead Blasting
Same as for metal parts, you can choose bead blasting as a surface treatment for your plastic components as well. With bead blasting, you’ll remove any larger deformities and impurities on the surface of your parts.
Plating
With plating, we can easily add a metal layer to the surface of any plastic parts. We can use either an electrical or a chemical process with a conductor paint that will transform into a metal film. As a result, your parts will enjoy increased resistance and durability.
Painting
Painting is another excellent surface finishing option for your plastic parts. Depending on the need and application, we can spray paint or submerge the parts in dye solutions. Typically, painting plastic parts is for decorative purposes but can also add other properties.
Diamond Buff
We use diamond buffing when you need plastic parts that are esthetically pleasing and have a high degree of smoothness, shine, and gloss. A diamond buff will give you the smoothest plastic surface you can get.
Which surface coating has the best hardness?
Depending on the industry, certain parts might need an increased toughness, hardness, or resistance to heat or corrosion. For instance, anodizing, PEO, and the black oxide surface coatings all have great hardness and can be used when you need strong parts.
Which surface coatings can insulate?
Typically, we use surface coating treatments like PEO when you want insulation against electricity or heat. For heat-only insulation, we can also use different thermal insulation paints.
Which surface coatings are commonly used in mold components?
Here are some common surface coatings for in-mold components or parts:
Diamond-Like Carbon (DLC)
DLC will give your in-mold components a beautiful and naturally-rich black color and a visually attractive appearance. Additionally, it will provide strength and resistance to your parts and protect them from different external exposures.
Titanium Carbonitride (TiCN)
With TiCN as a surface coating, we can give your parts an increased hardness and boost their resistance to wear and tear. Parts treated with TiCN have a high mechanical stress threshold, making them great for milling, punching, and forming tools.
Titanium Nitride (TiN)
The TiN surface coating entails using a physical vapor deposition (PVD) process to get a bright gold ceramic layer on your parts. TiN-treated parts have a high hardness and resistance, although slightly less than parts treated with a TiCN surface finish.
Which surface coatings are commonly used in machinery metal components?
For machinery parts, we use surface finishings like bead blasting, anodizing, PVD, electrophoretic coating, and similar. Often, machinery parts need a higher level of resistance, so the surface coatings are there to strengthen the component instead of giving it a better visual appearance.
Which surface coatings are commonly used in medical device machined parts?
In the medical industry, our clients typically use these surface finishing treatments:
Anodizing
Bead blasting
Powder coating
Electroplating
Polishing
Brushing
Painting
Which surface coatings are commonly used in automotive metal machined parts?
We use most surface coatings in the automotive industry, including those meant for decorative and esthetic parts like spray painting, powder coating, or polishing.
Depending on the application of the part, the automotive industry can use the following surface coatings or treatments:
Spray painting
Powder coating
Polishing
As machined
Bead blasting
Anodizing
Black oxide
Electropolishing
Which surface coatings are commonly used in aerospace metal machined parts?
The aerospace industry uses different surface coatings for various purposes related to safety, durability, and heat resistance. Typically, we use Plasma Electrolytic Oxidation (PEO), anodizing, bead blasting, electropolishing, and more in aerospace metal machined parts.
Does DEK offer surface finishing services for CNC machined parts?
Yes. We’re a leading on-demand manufacturer, and we offer comprehensive services, from CNC machining, drilling, and milling, to your final surface coating. DEK offers surface finishing services in all industries, including aerospace, tech, medical, automotive, machinery, oil and gas, consumer products, and more.
At DEK, we take a personalized approach with each customer and create a customized project plan that fits your needs and budget precisely. We’ve equipped our factories with the latest technologies to automate parts of our processes, reduce the chances for human error, and preserve our high quality while lowering the price as low as possible.
We pride ourselves on our on-demand, no MOQ business model, allowing us to help SMEs with small orders and enterprises with bulk orders equally!
To get in touch with us, just go to our website and request a quick quote. We’ll get back to you with a free quote in a maximum of six hours, and we’ll prove why we’re leaders in the machined parts business.
Get a quick quote
We always insist on high quality and cost-effective products, contact us today to get an accurate quotation.