Sheet Metal Finishing Processes & Solutions

When deburring with a machine, the surface of sheet metal is usually also processed. This can be done as a result of the deburring and edge rounding tools or being applied with a specific surface finishing unit. During deburring and edge rounding, the tools grind over the sheet surface. This creates a structure that is either advantageous or disadvantageous, depending on the application. A rougher surface is desirable for paint adhesion, wile a finer finish is often required for visual reasons. In most cases, the results of the deburring and edge rounding tools are sufficient for the user to achieve an attractive surface. Surface finishing units are used to give the sheet metal an additional defined finish, for example a grain finish.

 

 

How is the Surface of Sheet Metal processed in the Deburring Machine?


The surface finishing options in a deburring machine are limited. These processing units in deburring machines are not suitable for a specific surface finishes, as is also known from steel service centers. Nevertheless, an additional wide belt unit and the corresponding nonwoven abrasive fleece can be used to improve the sheet surface after deburring and edge rounding. Various nonwoven surface finishing fleeces are available in our webshop. By selecting the "grain size", you determine the roughness or structure of the surface. This allows you to achieve the desired surfaces for further processing for common sheet metal applications. The surface treatment units and processes presented here are specifically designed for this purpose.

What are the Advantages of Surface Finishing Sheet Metal?

Improved paint adhesion

A rough surface is particularly suitable for paint adhesion.

Aesthetics

Finely polished sheet metal parts have a particularly attractive appearance. 

Surface Finishing Sheet Metal with a Roller Fleece Brush

The roller fleece brush consists of a core surrounded by abrasive fabric. The roller is set in rotation within the machine and presses against the surface of the sheet metal parts passing underneath. This removes small scratches and applies a polish to the surface. The roller fleece brush produces a very homogeneous pattern. It is advantageous for the tools if the passage position varies in order to maintain even wear and thus ensuring consistent results. The roller fleece brush is available in various composites and grits.
Surface finishing sheet metal with a roller fleece brush.

Facts at a glance

  • The roller fleece brush consists of a core which is surrounded by abrasive fabric.
  • The roller fleece brush produces a very uniform finish on sheet metal.
  • The surface finishing results can be influenced by the choice varying abrasive material and grit of the roller fleece brush.

Suitable machines

EdgeBreaker 1000

Surface Finishing Sheet Metal with a Wide Belt

Wide belt units are probably the most frequently used units for surface finishing. Here, an abrasive belt is guided and driven between two rollers. One roller is only used for deflection while the other presses the belt onto the sheet metal surface. Scratches are removed from the surface of the sheet metal. The desired surface finish can also be achieved at the same time. The abrasive belts utilized are available in different abrasive materials and grits, thus influencing the removal rate and roughness of the surfaces in various degrees.

The final surface result is a combination of the machine, tools, processing settings, and throughput speed.

Facts at a glance

  • Wide belt units are most frequently used for surface finishing sheet metal.
  • Scratches are removed from the surface via the surface finishing fleece.
  • The abrasive fleece used influences the removal rate and roughness of the surface.
  • Abrasive non-woven fleeces are available in various abrasive materials and grits.

Suitable machines

EdgeBreaker 6000