Perforated metal is generally manufactured in its original metal color. However, it must go through a series of surface finishes to satisfy the need of different environments and extend its service life. Perforated metal finish can alter the its surface appearance, brightness, color and texture. Some finishes also improve its durability and resistance to corrosion and wear. Perforated metal finish includes anodizing, galvanizing and powder coating. Understanding the benefits of each perforated metal finish is the key to achieving your desired outcomes. Here is a guide to the most common perforated metal finishes and a brief introduction to the processing process and benefits.

1. Anodizing

Anodized metal process

Anodizing is an electrolytic passivation process of increasing the thickness of the metal’s natural oxide layer. There are various types & colors of anodizing depending on the types of acids used for the process. Although anodizing can be done on other metal such as titanium, it is most commonly used on aluminum. Anodized aluminum plates are widely used in outer wall facades, railings, partitions, doors, ventilation grids, waste baskets, lampshades, perforated seats, shelves, etc.

Benefits

Anodized aluminum is hard, durable and weatherproof.

The anodized coating is an integral part of the metal and it will not peel off or flake.

It helps increase the adhesion for paints and primers.

Color can be added during the anodizing process, which makes it a more durable option for metal coloring.

2. Galvanizing

Galvanized metal process

Galvanizing is the process of applying a protective zinc coating to steels or irons. The most common method is hot-dip galvanizing, where the metal is submerged in a bath of molten zinc. It generally takes place when a product is produced to make sure that all edges of the sheet are protected by the coating. It is widely used in cable bridges, acoustic panels, malt floors, noise barriers, wind dust fences, test sieves, etc.

Benefits

It provides a protective coating to help prevent rust.

It helps prolong the service life of the metal material.

3. Powder Coating

Powder coated metal process

Powder coating is the process of applying paint powder to metal electrostatically. It is then cured under heat and forms a hard, colored surface. Powder coating is mainly used to create a decorative colored surface for metals. It is widely used in outer wall facades, ceilings, sunshades, railings, partitions, doors, ventilation gratings, cable bridges, noise barriers, wind dust fences, ventilation grids, waste baskets, lampshades, perforated seats, shelves, etc.

Benefits

It can produce much thicker coatings than conventional liquid coatings without running or sagging.

Powder coated metal generally retain its color and appearance longer than liquid coated metal.

It gives metal a wide range of special effects that would be impossible for other coating process to achieve these results.

Compared with liquid coating, power coating is more environmental-friendly as it emits nearly zero volatile organic compound into the atmosphere.