what is painting in surface finishing

Painting is a finishing process in which liquid paint is applied to the surface of an object or workpiece. Liquid paint can be applied manually by brushing or spraying, or it can be applied automatically using a spray machine. Regardless, painting is an age-old finishing process that’s characterized by the use of liquid paint. The liquid paint is evenly applied to the object’s or workpiece’s surface.

In some painting applications, heat and pressure is used to help the paint set. Exposing the newly painted surface of an object or workpiece to heat and pressure encourages the paint to fuse. As the paint fuses with the object or workpiece it creates a strong and long-lasting shell that’s able to withstand the hands of time.

While many of the painting finishes are versatile and provide incredible finishes, some of them are more efficient for specific machined parts. For instance, you may find one painting finish being more applicable for painting injection-molded plastic. At the same time, another is better for metal fabrication parts.

Spray Painting
To add character and color to plastic injection molded objects, this is the simplest and most cost-effective painting technique. Some paints in this method are self-curing and two-part. UV curing is required for other plastic coatings to boost durability. You and the project manager can decide which option is ideal for your project.

Silk Screening
This is one painting process that can provide a way to apply more elaborate designs and numerous colors to a custom-manufactured part. It is often the best choice when the intended outcome demands more than one color. Silk screening is the process of creating a thin sheet with a screen area design. This design allows the paint to pass through to the desired pattern on the part. Each paint color necessitates its screen. The process begins by placing the screen over the part, then application of the paint follows. After removing the screen, it leaves a thin coating of paint behind.

Pros of Painting Finish
It helps to achieve a custom color on a wide range of materials.
Painting enables the production of mass metal and plastic products of various colors.
Fabricators can have a greater level of control over the look of the finished product.
It is one of the best means of concealing imperfections like injection molding defects.
Paints can reach a high level of gloss, making it easier to achieve marketing objectives.
Ensures easy cleaning of the material.
Provides improved stain and chemical resistance to protect the components.
Some paints make plastic surfaces harder to prevent scratching and abrasions.
It also ensures improved weatherability.
Paints are easily applied, and they can be easily replaced.
Painting finish is a cost-effective technique.

Cons of Painting Finish
Paints are not as durable as most finishing processes like electroplating and powder coating.
Painting may require many applications for the right thickness and desired color.
Many applications may be labor-intensive.

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