Material Finishes

Question 1

Brush - on metal Paint

Answer 1

Mild steel metal frame on bespoke (one off) table

Easy to apply and cost effective for a one-off product. With a good quality brush, a very good finish can be achieved

Question 2

Vinyl Decals

Answer 2

Recycling identification on thermoplastic bins (for a small batch)

Vinyl decals can be cut using a CNC machine and then applied to the surface of the bins. For larger quantities, it may be more suitable to screen print.

Question 3

Galvanising

Answer 3

Mild steel crash barrier

Highly durable finish that will protect the mild steel from rust for many years. No maintenance and looks attractive.

Question 4

Electroplating

Answer 4

Brass jewellery (final colour to be silver)

Electrolysis will be used to coat the brass necklace with a thin layer of silver metal. This will give a highly decorative finish and is very precise. Can be used on very intricate pieces

Question 5

Plastic Powder coating

Answer 5

Mild steel bench at a railway station

This will provide a durable and long-lasting surface finish that will not require re-painting. It will also protect the mild steel very effectively from rusting

Question 6

Spray paint

Answer 6

MDF radiator Cover

MDF would first be primed to seal it, as the surface is very absorbent. The top coat would then be applied. Very thin layers that is suitable for very detailed products. Also very efficient to apply in large quantities

Question 7

Teak oil

Answer 7

Hardwood outdoor table and chairs

Natural wood loses natural oils over time and causes the wood to dry out. Teak oil will replace these oils and give the wood a natural protection from the elements as well as enhancing the natural wood grain.

Question 8

Polyurethane Varnish

Answer 8

Softwood children’s high chair for indoor use

The natural pine will need protecting from food and drink spilled on the high chair. The polyurethane varnish provides a thin plastic layer over the product that is easy to clean

Question 9

Stain

Answer 9

Childrens hardwood Toy

Stains can be used to make the toys more attractive. Using a stain rather than paint will retain the natural grain of the hardwood. The stain may also include a varnish or a varnish could be applied on top to give further protection.

Question 10

Anodising

Answer 10

Aluminium torch (to be finished in red colour)

Aluminium products can be anodised to create a hard surface that will help protect the product. During the process, dyes can be added to the solution to colour the aluminium at the same time.