Hairline finish by In Mold technology - Nissha USA
Hairline finish by In Mold technology - Nissha USA
How to achieve authentic hairline finish by molding and printing technologies
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Hairline is one of the most authentic and beautiful metal surface treatments. Combined with matte effects, hairline can further enhance the texture of metal itself. Nowadays, hairline finish is widely applied on the surface of appliances, consumer electronics and building materials.
Nissha’s printing and molding technology offers a decoration solution achieving hairline characteristics at a high level of aesthetic quality on plastic surfaces by IMD, IML and Heat Transfer film. In fact, in certain industries, the high reproducibility of this hairline design is one of the reasons for choosing Nissha’s In Mold decorative solutions.
Customer benefits
Adopting Nissha’s decoration technology instead of real metal, high quality hairline effects can be applied:
- On complicated 3D geometry (even with mechanical feature on the backside of parts)
- On parts which require antenna/radio frequency performance or non-conductivity
- Combined with other artwork elements (logo, text, window, frame)
- As a part of user interface (UI) with dead front effect (see below pictures)
- With cost reduction due to material change from metal to plastic
“Dead front effect with hairline decoration”
No.4, Hairline, and Satin Brushed Finishes - X-Metal
In the realm of metal finishes, the brushed finish series, including No.4, Hairline, and Satin, are widely recognized for their unique aesthetic and functional properties. Despite their shared category, each finish possesses distinct characteristics that set them apart. Before delving into their differences, let's first understand the general process and overview of brushed finishes.
Brushed Finish: An Overview
A brushed finish is achieved by polishing the metal surface with a brush, typically made from wire. The brushing process creates a distinctive appearance of fine lines running in the same direction. This finish is popular for its ability to hide fingerprints and minor scratches, making it a preferred choice for high-traffic areas and applications that require a blend of durability and aesthetics.
The brushed finish process involves several steps. The metal surface is first thoroughly cleaned to remove any impurities. Then, it is brushed either manually or with a motorized tool equipped with a wire brush. The brushing action creates a pattern of fine lines that follow the direction of the brushing. The depth and spacing of these lines can be adjusted to achieve different visual effects.
Now, let's explore the unique characteristics of No.4, Hairline, and Satin finishes.
No.4 Finish
The No.4 finish, also known as a brushed or satin finish, is characterized by short, parallel polishing lines that extend uniformly along the length of the coil or sheet. The process involves passing the coil or sheet through a special roller under high pressure, resulting in a smooth, shiny finish. This finish is often used for kitchen appliances and in industrial applications where the metal needs to be both durable and aesthetically pleasing. Notably, the No.4 finish has a lower processing cost, making it a cost-effective choice for many applications. While the unit cost is generally lower for coils, the choice between coil and sheet forms depends on the required quantity of the finished product.
Hairline Finish
The Hairline finish, as the name suggests, is a finish that mimics the appearance of human hair. It is achieved by polishing the metal with a 150-180 grit belt or wheel finish and then softened with an 80-120 grit greaseless compound or a medium non-woven abrasive belt or pad. This results in a finish with long, continuous lines with a subtle shine. The Hairline finish is often used for architectural applications, kitchen appliances, and automotive detailing. The processing cost for a Hairline finish is typically higher than that of a No.4 finish.
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Satin Finish
The Satin finish, distinct from a No.4 finish, has a more subtle shine and a smooth, soft appearance. It is created by sanding the metal with a series of progressively finer abrasives, then softening the surface with a paste made from pumice and water. The final result is a finish that has a soft, satin-like sheen, which is less reflective than a No.4 finish. This finish is often used for decorative applications, such as furniture and lighting fixtures. The Satin finish is characterized by its coarser and denser texture compared to the No.4 finish. It also has the highest processing cost among the three finishes discussed here.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while No.4, Hairline, and Satin finishes are all part of the brushed finish series, each has its unique characteristics and applications. Understanding these differences can help you choose the right finish for your project. Whether you are looking for a finish that offers durability, aesthetic appeal, or a combination of both, the brushed finish series has something to offer.
Choosing the right finish for your project can make all the difference in the final product. Our team of experts is always ready to provide guidance and answer any questions you may have about metal finishes. Don't hesitate to reach out to us for more information or to discuss your project needs. We're here to help you make the best decision for your specific requirements.
Combine brushed finishes with our decorative stainless steel sheet collection to elevate your designs.
Textured stainless steel sheets provide dynamic patterns that blend seamlessly with brushed surfaces.
While etched stainless steel sheets offer intricate designs for added depth.
For a vibrant touch, PVD color stainless steel sheets introduce striking colors that beautifully complement brushed finishes.
Achieve a blend of sophistication and durability with these finishes, creating a unique visual impact that transforms your project.
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