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Surface finishing in
aerospace

Maximum precision for extreme operating conditions

Technical surfaces
for lightness, protection and safety

In the aerospace industry, micrometres, grams and one hundred per cent reliability count. Components not only have to be extremely light, but also highly resilient, corrosion-resistant and functionally reliable, even under vacuum, with temperature fluctuations or in aggressive atmospheres. This is exactly where Metalux surface finishing comes into play.

Our coating processes are precisely tailored to the special requirements of the aerospace industry. Special finishes give lightweight materials such as aluminium or titanium functional layers that protect them against corrosion, cold welding, abrasion and material fatigue without significantly affecting the component weight.

Surface finishing in aerospace

Our processes are certified (e.g. in accordance with EN 9100, Nadcap) and are constantly monitored in our own laboratory. This allows us to ensure that each layer performs exactly as it should under controlled conditions, even on missions beyond the atmosphere.

Metalux delivers surfaces you can rely on – even in space.

Corrosion protection
under extreme conditions (vacuum, temperature changes, radiation)
Reduction of friction and cold welding
for moving components
Low component weight
with maximum protective effect
Avoidance of material fatigue
through customised shift systems
Certified processes (EN 9100, Nadcap)
for safety-critical applications
Seamless quality assurance
through in-house laboratory and documentation

FAQ about surface finishing in the aerospace industry

Why is surface finishing indispensable in the aerospace industry?
Because components are exposed to extreme conditions – from vacuum and high temperature fluctuations to radiation. A suitable coating provides reliable protection against corrosion, wear, cold welding and functional failure.
Which coating processes are suitable for aerospace components?

Typical procedures include:

  • Hard anodising for insulating, wear-resistant layers
  • Chromic acid anodising for optimum adhesion in bonding or coating processes
  • Electroless nickel plating for dimensionally stable, uniform corrosion protection coatings
  • Chromating (also Cr(VI)-free) for conductive protective coatings
Are the surfaces tested according to aerospace standards?
Yes, we work according to certified processes (e.g. EN 9100, Nadcap) and document all results comprehensively – supported by our in-house laboratory.
How does surface finishing contribute to weight optimisation?
The targeted use of lightweight protective layers achieves an optimum ratio of weight to function – crucial for lightweight construction in the aerospace industry.
Are the coatings resistant to vacuum and temperature fluctuations?
Yes, our processes are designed for the loads in orbit or during rocket launches and have proven themselves for years in applications with the highest requirements.
Does Metalux also help with material selection?
Absolutely. We advise you as early as the design and development phase in order to optimally harmonise material and coating – functionally, economically and process-oriented.