At DSI, we believe that a project isn’t truly complete until every surface is properly finished. After your parts have been laser cut, formed, and welded, our dedicated Finishing Department steps in to take things to the next level. From stainless-steel grinding to deburring and edge smoothing, our team ensures that every component we handle leaves our facility clean, consistent, and ready for its next stage—whether that means shipping raw, powder coating, or plating.

What Is Metal Finishing?

Metal finishing refers to the processes used to treat the surface of metal parts to improve their appearance, durability, and functionality. It’s not just about aesthetics—it’s about precision. Surface contaminants, burrs, weld marks, and oxidation can all interfere with part performance or downstream processes like powder coating or plating. That’s why we approach finishing with the same attention to detail that we bring to cutting and welding.

The Importance of a High-Quality Finish

An improperly finished part can cause issues down the line. Sharp edges can pose safety risks. Poor surface prep can lead to coating adhesion failure. Uneven finishes can throw off tolerances or contribute to premature wear. Whether your project demands a raw industrial look or a sleek, polished surface, our team knows how to deliver consistent, high-quality results.

Benefits of Professional Finishing:

• Enhanced durability and corrosion resistance

• Improved safety by removing burrs and sharp edges

• Better adhesion for powder coating or plating

• Aesthetic appeal for visible components

• Consistent, repeatable finishes for production parts

Our Finishing Services

Metal Grinding and Surface Preparation

Our team uses state-of-the-art grinding tools to remove surface imperfections, smooth out welds, and bring your parts to the desired finish grade. We routinely provide A, B, and C grade finishes depending on your specifications, ranging from rough prep to visually polished surfaces.

We tailor our grinding approach based on the type of material and the end-use of your product. Stainless steel, aluminum, and mild steel all require different techniques—and we know them all.

Deburring and Edge Smoothing

Burrs are the rough edges or protrusions left behind after laser cutting or punching. These need to be removed not only for appearance but also for safety and performance. Our team ensures that every edge is smooth, clean, and free of sharp fragments.

Timesaving Machine: Efficiency Meets Consistency

Our Timesaver machine is a high-speed finishing system that allows us to process parts quickly and consistently. Ideal for flat parts and sheet metal, the Timesaver performs a variety of tasks including:

• Surface cleaning

• Deburring

• Oxide removal

• Edge rounding

Using this machine increases throughput while maintaining the level of quality our customers expect.

Hand Finishing for Complex Parts

Not every part is flat or uniform. For custom or complex geometries, we rely on manual finishing techniques. Our skilled technicians use hand grinders, abrasives, and polishers to access every edge, nook, and curve—ensuring no detail is overlooked.

Preparing for Powder Coating or Plating

Many of our clients rely on us not only for fabrication but also for surface finishing before applying a final coating. Whether that means prepping for in-house powder coating or coordinating with a third-party plating vendor, we know exactly what’s required to ensure optimal adhesion and appearance.

In-House Powder Coating Prep

If your parts are being powder coated in-house at DSI, we ensure they’re properly prepped and cleaned to maximize coating adhesion and durability. This often includes grinding down welds, removing any contaminants, and lightly scuffing the surface for better grip.

Third-Party Plating Prep

If your parts are being sent out for anodizing, chroming, or electroplating, we make sure they meet industry standards for cleanliness and surface readiness. Any oil, oxidation, or residues left behind can compromise the plating process—so we make sure nothing is left to chance.

Grades of Finish We Offer

We provide three common finishing grades to meet the different needs of our clients:

• Grade A Finish: Our highest-level cosmetic finish, typically used for parts that will be highly visible or require smooth, polished aesthetics.

• Grade B Finish: A functional finish that removes burrs and weld marks, preparing parts for coating or assembly without focusing on visual perfection.

• Grade C Finish: A quick, functional pass that removes dangerous edges and prepares parts for further processing. Ideal for internal or hidden components.

If you’re not sure which finish grade is right for your project, our team is happy to consult with you and make recommendations based on your part’s function and appearance requirements.

Industries We Serve

Our precision finishing services are trusted by clients across a range of industries, including:

• Aerospace

• Medical devices

• Food processing equipment

• Commercial and industrial construction

• Agricultural machinery

• Automotive and powersports

Whether you’re producing a few prototypes or thousands of units, DSI has the capacity and expertise to support your finishing needs.

Why Choose DSI for Your Finishing Needs?

We’re not just a fabrication shop—we’re your full-service manufacturing partner. Our integrated approach means your parts don’t need to be sent across town to another vendor for finishing. We take care of everything in-house, maintaining control over quality, consistency, and timelines.

Our Advantages:

• Experienced finishing technicians

• State-of-the-art equipment

• Rapid turnaround times

• In-house quality control

• Seamless integration with our laser cutting and welding services

Get a Quote for Finishing Services

Have a project that needs professional-grade finishing? Whether you need light deburring or a high-polish stainless-steel finish, we can help. Contact us today for a custom quote or to learn more about our full range of metal fabrication and finishing services.