How the process fits the part
The substrate, preparation and final service environment must suit the selected treatment. Aluminium anodizing and painting or powder coating use different routes, while a mechanically finished surface has another role. Select the finish by the requirement and supplier evidence, rather than adding a coating simply because it is available.
Design decisions before manufacture
Identify faces that should be masked or kept as functional contacts. Review threads, bearing seats, locating holes and electrical interfaces before treatment. Define whether dimensions refer to the untreated or finished condition. A decorative finish may not answer a wear or chemical exposure requirement, and those functions should be assessed separately.
Inspect the finished result
Inspect the agreed appearance and the functional surfaces after the final treatment. Include any specified records or verification method in the quotation. Compare first pieces where colour or texture matters across an assembly. If cleaning exposure is important, confirm the selected grade and finish with the customer’s responsible process team.
What to send for a quotation
Provide the base material, operating environment, desired appearance and critical interfaces. Identify masking, cleaning, surface condition and documentation needs. QDM can include a reviewed finishing route in the mechanical development and supplier coordination scope, with the final treatment and acceptance criteria confirmed for the particular application.
What to define for the project.
| Decision | What to define | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Substrate | Grade and surface condition | Must suit the treatment |
| Purpose | Exposure, wear or appearance | Guides finish selection |
| Masking | Fits, threads and contact areas | Protects function |
| Dimensions | Before or after treatment | Clarifies acceptance |
| Review | Appearance and required records | Defines the final result |
These notes support an initial engineering discussion. Material grades, manufacturing routes, dimensions and acceptance criteria are selected for the actual application and confirmed in the project specification.
Discuss the engineering scope
Choose the service that matches the next stage of your part, device or machine project.