Aluminum Surface Requirements
Prepare anodizing, paint or powder-coating requirements for an extrusion inquiry. Mark visible faces, color references, masking and finished fits.
REQUEST A QUOTEDescribe where the part will be used and how its surface will be accepted. A finish name or screen color is not enough to define the order.
Appearance
Color reference
Exposed faces
Environment
Masking
Mating fits
Sample approval
Acceptance
Anodizing: ask for a defined requirement
Mark the exposed faces and provide the intended appearance, color reference and service environment. Identify masking and electrical-contact areas on the drawing. Agree the applicable specification, measurement method and physical appearance sample; a screen image cannot serve as a reliable color acceptance reference.
Preparing an anodizing inquiry? Check color, exposed faces and masking.
Paint and powder coating
For a requested painted or powder-coated part, define the color reference, gloss, exposure and contact surfaces. State which preparation, adhesion or corrosion requirements need verification. Ask what test evidence will be supplied for the agreed coating system instead of assuming performance from its name.
If machining follows or precedes coating, define the finished features and process sequence.
FINISH BRIEF BUILDER
What drives your surface requirement?
Select the priority for your part to see the questions to resolve. This local guide does not submit or save your selections, and does not confirm any supplier finish capability.
Start with the visible surface.
For trims, housings and exposed components, describe how the finished part will be viewed. A screen color is a conversation starter, not a physical acceptance sample.
Confirm whether a batch-to-batch appearance reference is needed.
Include in your review
- Mark exposed faces on the drawing.
- Provide a physical color or texture reference when available.
- Agree viewing conditions and the sample approval method.
Finish routes and acceptance requirements
Compare the information needed for each requested surface route. No supplier availability, thickness or coating performance is implied.
| Requested route | Define in the brief | Agree before release |
|---|---|---|
| As-extruded condition | Visible surfaces, handling expectations and downstream work | What surface marks or handling conditions are acceptable? |
| Anodizing | Appearance sample, exposed faces, masking and service environment | Which specification, appearance reference and verification method apply? |
| Powder coating | Color reference, gloss, exposure and mating areas | What preparation, acceptance method and test evidence are required? |
| Mechanical preparation | Direction, texture, visible faces and subsequent finish | How will the physical reference sample be approved? |
Attach a finish code or physical sample reference. Identify visible faces, mating fits and areas that need masking.
Browse architectural application profilesFinish availability and the applicable coating system need written confirmation. Agree the physical appearance reference, masking, applicable specification and any requested verification before release. The illustrations are not finish samples, coating tests or evidence of production capability.
Before approving a finish
Identify exposed faces and the appearance reference alongside order quantity, packaging and the requested arrival date. Confirm sample arrangements through the order preparation guide before release.
Keep appearance and performance distinct.
A color reference does not establish coating performance. Name any dimensional, coating or service-environment verification needed in the inspection and documentation brief.