Which Metal Post-Processing Method to Choose? This Guide Has You Covered

Created on 08.26

Are you stuck choosing the right metal post-processing method for your custom parts? Do you worry that picking the wrong one will ruin the part’s look, durability, or cost you extra money? You’re not alone. Many clients at Marigold Rapid (www.marigold-rapid.com

.cn)—our one-stop custom machining factory—face this problem. They know their part needs a finish, but they don’t know which method fits their project: corrosion resistance? A shiny look? Or something that works for outdoor use?​

We’ve made this simple guide to break down the most common metal post-processing methods. No complex terms—just what you need to know to pick the right one for your custom machined parts, whether it’s for prototyping or full production.​

1. Anodizing: Great for Aluminum Parts That Need Durability & Color​

If you’re using aluminum (one of the most popular metals for custom machining), anodizing is a top choice. It uses an electric process to add a tough oxide layer on the surface.​

Why choose it?​

Makes aluminum more scratch-resistant and corrosion-proof (perfect for parts used outdoors or in damp areas).

Lets you pick from many colors (black, silver, blue—great for parts that need to look good, like electronics casings or consumer products).

Best for: Aluminum parts in aerospace, automotive, or consumer electronics.​

At Marigold Rapid: We offer anodizing for all our aluminum custom parts, with fast turnaround times.​

2. Electroplating: Add Shine & Protection to Metal Parts​

Electroplating coats your metal part with a thin layer of another metal (like chrome, nickel, or zinc) using electricity.​

Why choose it?​

Gives parts a shiny, professional look (ideal for hardware or decorative parts).

Boosts corrosion resistance (zinc plating is great for steel parts that might rust).

Best for: Steel, brass, or copper parts—think automotive components, jewelry, or electronic connectors.​

Pro tip: Tell our team your goal (shine vs. rust protection), and we’ll suggest the right metal for plating.​

3. Powder Coating: Tough Finish for Outdoor & Large Parts​

Powder coating sprays dry powder onto the part, then bakes it to form a thick, even layer.​

Why choose it?​

Super durable—resists chips, scratches, and weather (perfect for outdoor furniture, bike frames, or large equipment parts).

No drips or runs (unlike liquid paint), so the finish looks smooth every time.

Lots of color and texture options (matte, glossy, or even textured).

Best for: Steel, aluminum, or iron parts that need to stand up to wear and tear.​

At Marigold Rapid: We handle powder coating for both small custom parts and large batches—all in-house at our one-stop factory.​

4. Sandblasting: Prep Parts or Add a Rough Look​

Sandblasting uses high-pressure air to shoot small sand grains at the metal surface. It’s often a “pre-step” but can also be a finish on its own.​

Why choose it?​

Cleans the surface: Removes rust, oil, or old paint (great before painting or plating to help the finish stick better).

Adds a rough texture: Good for parts that need grip (like tool handles) or a matte, industrial look.

Best for: Any metal—steel, aluminum, or stainless steel—before other post-processing, or for parts that don’t need a shiny finish.​

Quick fact: Our sandblasting team preps 90% of parts before painting or plating to ensure better results.​

5. Polishing: For a Super Smooth, Shiny Finish​

Polishing uses abrasives to rub the metal surface until it’s smooth and shiny.​

Why choose it?​

Makes parts look high-end (perfect for jewelry, luxury automotive parts, or medical devices).

Removes small scratches or marks left from machining.

Best for: Stainless steel, brass, or aluminum parts where appearance matters most.​

Note: Polishing works best on parts with simple shapes—our team can advise if it’s right for your design.​

6. PVD Vacuum Plating: High-Quality Shine That Lasts​

PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) is a newer method that coats parts with a thin metal layer in a vacuum.​

Why choose it?​

Super tough—harder to scratch than electroplating (great for parts that get used a lot, like watch cases or phone frames).

Offers unique metallic looks (rose gold, gunmetal) that are hard to get with other methods.

Environmentally friendly (no harsh chemicals).

Best for: High-end parts in electronics, watches, or jewelry.​

At Marigold Rapid: We use advanced PVD equipment for clients who want a premium finish.​

How to Pick the Right Method for Your Project​

Ask yourself 3 simple questions:​

What’s the part made of? Anodizing only works for aluminum—electroplating works for steel.

What do you need the finish to do? Corrosion resistance? Shine? Durability?

What’s your budget? Some methods (like PVD) cost more than sandblasting—we’ll help you find a fit.Don’t guess! Our team at Marigold Rapid (www.marigold-rapid.com.cn) offers free consultations. Send us your custom machining project details, and we’ll recommend the best post-processing method—no extra cost, no delays.

Why This Matters for Your Custom Machining Project​

Choosing the right post-processing method isn’t just about looks—it’s about making sure your part works as intended. The wrong finish can make a part rust, scratch easily, or fail to meet your project’s needs. With our one-stop service, we handle everything from machining to post-processing, so you don’t have to work with multiple suppliers.​Whether you need custom machined parts with anodizing, powder coating, or polishing, Marigold Rapid has you covered. Visit www.marigold-rapid.com.cn today to get a free quote for your project.