Aerospace components need to operate under extreme conditions, including high temperatures, vibration and friction, and are exposed to corrosive environments. To meet the strict performance and safety requirements, surface finishing processes are used to protect and strengthen these parts. Below are six of the most widely used surface finishing applications in the aerospace industry.
1. Corrosion Protection
Modern aerospace surface treatments, such as those from https://www.poeton.co.uk/about/industries/aerospace-defence/, are designed to improve durability. Aircraft structures and engine parts are continuously exposed to moisture, chemical contaminants and atmospheric conditions that can accelerate corrosion. Protective coatings, chemical treatments and advanced plating systems are used to create a strong barrier against corrosion.
2. Pre-Braze Surface Preparation
Before high-temperature brazing operations, metal surfaces must be exceptionally clean and free from oxides or contaminants.
3. Refurbishment
Aerospace parts such as turbine blades, landing gear components and fasteners are often refurbished. Surface treatments include stripping, recoating, machining and polishing.
4. Performance Surface Treatments
Some processes aim to improve functional performance rather than simply protect the metal. Techniques such as shot peening, thermal spray coatings and hard anodic layers improve fatigue strength, wear resistance or thermal stability.
5. Anodizing
Aluminium is widely used in aerospace due to its strength-to-weight ratio. Anodizing increases the natural oxide layer on aluminium surfaces. It is commonly applied to airframes, brackets, housings and interior structures.
6. Cadmium-Free Alternatives
Traditional cadmium plating is useful for corrosion protection but is being phased out due to environmental and health regulations. Aerospace manufacturers now use cadmium-replacement systems such as zinc-nickel coatings and aluminium-based coatings.
