Bead Blast

Bead blasting is a widely used surface finishing technique where abrasive media, typically spherical beads, are accelerated by high-pressure air and impinged onto the surface of a part. This process effectively enhances surface texture by removing contaminants, smoothing imperfections, and improving adhesion for coatings or paint.

Sandblasting process

Bead blasting is used in industries like automotive, aerospace, construction, and furniture. It provides a uniform, matte finish while preserving the part’s material integrity. Ideal for components requiring a consistent surface profile or preparation for further finishing.

Surface properties

                  TolerancesPremium appearance availabilitySharp edges and burrs    Applicable
  Met after surface finish                        yes              RemovedMetals &Plastics

Sandblasting effect samples

Sandblasting + Anodized color

Introduction to Anodized

Anodizing is an electrochemical treatment process that forms a corrosion-resistant oxide layer on metal surfaces, primarily used for aluminum and its alloys. This process not only enhances the corrosion resistance of parts but also allows for electrolytic coloring, producing various colors, with the most common being colorless (transparent), black, red, and gold.

When combined with sandblasting, the surface of the part achieves a uniform, fine matte finish, further enhancing its aesthetic appeal and texture.

Key Considerations

  1. Color Variations: The actual anodized color may slightly differ from the standard color samples due to material composition, electrolyte parameters, and process batch variations.
  2. Fixture Marks: During the anodizing process, parts must be fixed using conductive fixtures (clamps) to ensure uniform treatment. The contact points will not form an oxide layer, often leaving slight fixture marks. Therefore, when designing parts, it is advisable to plan suitable fixture positions in advance to minimize their impact on the final appearance, especially in visible areas after assembly.

Example of sandblasted + anodized colored parts process