What Are Common Defects in Metal Finishing & Our Approach
Even with the best materials and equipment, metal finishing is a process where small variables can create big problems. At Giering Metal Finishing, we take a proactive, engineered approach to prevent those problems before they happen.
Common Metal Finishing Defects
Defects in finishing can occur at any stage of the process, from cleaning and pre-treatment to application and curing. Some of the most frequent issues include:
- Surface contamination – Oils, dirt, or machining residue can prevent coatings from adhering properly.
- Poor adhesion – Caused by inadequate pre-treatment or applying coating to a contaminated surface.
- Coating too thin – May result in poor coverage, reduced corrosion protection, or visible substrate.
- Coating too thick – Can cause runs, drips, cracking, or buildup in areas that need tight tolerances.
- Inconsistent finish – Uneven texture, gloss variation, or color mismatch across parts in the same lot.
These problems don’t just affect appearance—they can compromise function, durability, and long-term performance.
Our First Article Process: Quality Starts Before Production
To prevent defects, we never just “press start” and run a job. Instead, we begin every production run with a first article process.
Before running your full batch, we:
- Spray out test panels or sample parts
- Adjust application settings based on your specifications
- Verify coating thickness, coverage, and adhesion
- Confirm the finish meets visual and functional expectations
Once the process is dialed in, we move forward with full production—giving you confidence that the first part and the last part will meet the same high standard.
Why This Matters
In metal finishing, catching a mistake early isn’t just helpful—it’s essential. Once a defective finish is applied, fixing it often means stripping the part and starting over, which can delay delivery and increase cost.
Our preventative approach saves time, improves quality, and reduces the risk of rework. It’s one more way we deliver consistent, reliable results—part after part, order after order.
Trust Giering to Get It Right
With over 70 years of experience, Giering Metal Finishing combines hands-on expertise with engineered process control. From e-coating and powder coating to paint and pre-treatment, we know the variables—and how to manage them.
If you’re looking for a partner who understands the details that make or break a finish, our team is ready to help.
