Process Encyclopaedia
Surface treatment (generic)
Related processes in this database include:
Case hardening,
Transformation hardening,
Surface coating
Peening
Overview
Surface treatment processes apply primarily, but not exclusively to metals. After a component has been formed and finished (e.g. by grinding), it may still not have acceptable surface properties. There are 4 main reasons why the surface properties may need altering:
- Improve wear resistance.
- Improve corrosion resistance.
- Improve fatigue resistance.
- Change the aesthetic appearance.
There are various ways these aims can be achieved:
- Coating the surface in a new material - e.g. painting, electroplating
- Altering the surface chemistry/microstructure – e.g. carburising, transformation hardening
- Changing the mechanical properties of the surface – e.g. shot peening, planishing.