---
description: ETCN is your go-to supplier from China for CNC machining surface finishes. Check us out today!
title: CNC Machining Surface Finish - ETCN
image: https://etcnmachining.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/2-43.png
---

[![ETCN LOGO](https://etcnmachining.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/ETCN.png)](https://etcnmachining.com/)

- [Home](https://etcnmachining.com/)
- Services ▼
  - [CNC Machining Service](https://etcnmachining.com/cnc-machining-service/)
  - [CNC Milling Service](https://etcnmachining.com/cnc-machining-service/cnc-milling-service/)
  - [CNC Turning Service](https://etcnmachining.com/cnc-machining-service/cnc-turning-service/)
  - [CNC Machining Surface Finish](https://etcnmachining.com/cnc-machining-surface-finish/)
  - [CNC Metal Machining Service](https://etcnmachining.com/cnc-metal-machining-service/)
  - [CNC Plastic Machining Services](https://etcnmachining.com/cnc-plastic-machining-services/)
- Materials ▼
  - [CNC Metal Machining Service ▼](https://etcnmachining.com/cnc-metal-machining-service/)
    - [Aluminum CNC Machining Service](https://etcnmachining.com/cnc-metal-machining-service/aluminum/)
    - [Brass CNC Machining Services](https://etcnmachining.com/cnc-metal-machining-service/brass/)
    - [Stainless Steel CNC Machining Services](https://etcnmachining.com/cnc-metal-machining-service/stainless-steel/)
    - [Copper CNC Machining Services](https://etcnmachining.com/cnc-metal-machining-service/copper/)
    - [Magnesium CNC Machining Services](https://etcnmachining.com/cnc-metal-machining-service/magnesium/)
    - [Titanium CNC Machining Services](https://etcnmachining.com/cnc-metal-machining-service/titanium/)
  - [CNC Plastic Machining Services ▼](https://etcnmachining.com/cnc-plastic-machining-services/)
    - [ABS (acrylonitrile) CNC Machining](https://etcnmachining.com/cnc-plastic-machining-services/abs/)
    - [Acrylic (PMMA) CNC Machining](https://etcnmachining.com/cnc-plastic-machining-services/acrylic/)
    - [Nylon CNC Machining](https://etcnmachining.com/cnc-plastic-machining-services/nylon/)
    - [PAI(Torlon) CNC Machining](https://etcnmachining.com/cnc-plastic-machining-services/pai-torlon/)
    - [PEEK CNC Machining](https://etcnmachining.com/cnc-plastic-machining-services/peek/)
    - [PEI (Ultem) CNC Machining](https://etcnmachining.com/cnc-plastic-machining-services/pei-ultem/)
    - [POM (Delrin/Acetal) CNC Machining](https://etcnmachining.com/cnc-plastic-machining-services/pom/)
    - [PTFE(Teflon) CNC Machining](https://etcnmachining.com/cnc-plastic-machining-services/ptfe/)
- [Blog](https://etcnmachining.com/blog/)
- [About](https://etcnmachining.com/about/)
- [Contact](https://etcnmachining.com/contact/)

[Skip to content](#content)

## Surface Finish provider

# CNC Machining Surface Finish service from China

ETCN leads the industry in Chinese CNC surface finishing. With a focus on quality and efficiency, our team of skilled professionals guarantees outstanding results for all your projects. We offer precision machining that you can trust. No matter your needs, we have the skills to get it done right. Send us a message today for more information about how we can help with your machining demands.

- Fast and perfect response
- Over 50 Certified Materials
- Acceptable prices
- Global Delivery

[GET AN INSTANT QUOTE](#elementor-action%3Aaction%3Dpopup%3Aopen%26settings%3DeyJpZCI6IjEyMzEiLCJ0b2dnbGUiOmZhbHNlfQ%3D%3D)

 Save at least 50% on average

![CNC Machining Surface Finish service from China](https://etcnmachining.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/2-55.png)

## The Ultimate Guide to CNC Machining Surface Finish

Uncover the secrets to [CNC machining](https://etcnmachining.com/cnc-machining/) surface finish! When it comes to this technique, are you just on the hunt for methods and tips? Or do you have a specific surface finish in mind? Either way, this guide is for you. Dive into the realm of CNC machining surface finish and become an expert in precision engineering.

[![Alodine vs Anodize: Choosing the Best Coating for Aluminum Surfaces](https://etcnmachining.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/1-175.png)](https://etcnmachining.com/blog/surface-finishing-symbols/ "A Comprehensive Guide to Surface Finish Symbols in Engineering Drawings")

### [A Comprehensive Guide to Surface Finish Symbols in Engineering Drawings](https://etcnmachining.com/blog/surface-finishing-symbols/)

[Surface Finish](https://etcnmachining.com/blog/tag/surface-finish/)

April 26, 2024

Jasonxue

Engineering drawings often have symbols for surface finish, which act as a link between ideas and things...

[![Alodine vs Anodize: Choosing the Best Coating for Aluminum Surfaces](https://etcnmachining.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/5-44.png)](https://etcnmachining.com/blog/alodine-vs-anodize/ "Alodine vs Anodize: Choosing the Best Coating for Aluminum Surfaces")

### [Alodine vs Anodize: Choosing the Best Coating for Aluminum Surfaces](https://etcnmachining.com/blog/alodine-vs-anodize/)

[Surface Finish](https://etcnmachining.com/blog/tag/surface-finish/)

April 26, 2024

Jasonxue

Choosing the correct coating for aluminum surfaces in the sphere of metal finishing methods is an important...

[![Comprehensive Guide to Brush Finish for CNC Machined Parts](https://etcnmachining.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/2f3e8980-0fc4-4eb2-a5a4-ceaf62a5100f-5.png)](https://etcnmachining.com/blog/brushing/ "Comprehensive Guide to Brush Finish for CNC Machined Parts")

### [Comprehensive Guide to Brush Finish for CNC Machined Parts](https://etcnmachining.com/blog/brushing/)

[Surface Finish](https://etcnmachining.com/blog/tag/surface-finish/)

April 16, 2024

Jasonxue

This guide will provide an overview of the brush finish for CNC machined parts—a common finishing technique...

[![The Ultimate Guide to Bead Blasting: Techniques, Tips, and Services](https://etcnmachining.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/1-43.png)](https://etcnmachining.com/blog/bead-blasting/ "The Ultimate Guide to Bead Blasting: Techniques, Tips, and Services")

### [The Ultimate Guide to Bead Blasting: Techniques, Tips, and Services](https://etcnmachining.com/blog/bead-blasting/)

[Surface Finish](https://etcnmachining.com/blog/tag/surface-finish/)

April 16, 2024

Jasonxue

Surface finishing cannot be complete without bead blasting, which is an important method of making surfaces...

[![Everything You Need to Know About Titanium Alloys: Grades, Properties, and Applications for Implants](https://etcnmachining.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/a-12.png)](https://etcnmachining.com/blog/unveiling-the-world-of-titanium-alloys-from-implant-grades-to-key-properties-and-application/ "Unveiling the World of Titanium Alloys: From Implant Grades to Key Properties and Application")

### [Unveiling the World of Titanium Alloys: From Implant Grades to Key Properties and Application](https://etcnmachining.com/blog/unveiling-the-world-of-titanium-alloys-from-implant-grades-to-key-properties-and-application/)

[Surface Finish](https://etcnmachining.com/blog/tag/surface-finish/)

April 16, 2024

Jasonxue

When it comes to materials science and engineering, there is no doubt that titanium alloys are among...

[![what color is titanium](https://etcnmachining.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/c.png)](https://etcnmachining.com/blog/exploring-the-diverse-coloration-of-titanium/ "Exploring the Diverse Coloration of Titanium: From Anodizing Colors to Natural Hues")

### [Exploring the Diverse Coloration of Titanium: From Anodizing Colors to Natural Hues](https://etcnmachining.com/blog/exploring-the-diverse-coloration-of-titanium/)

[Surface Finish](https://etcnmachining.com/blog/tag/surface-finish/)

April 15, 2024

Jasonxue

Through natural oxidation and anodization, titanium is knwon to have a wide variety of unique colors...

[![Unlock the Secrets to Successfully Paint Anodized Aluminum](https://etcnmachining.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/7-4.png)](https://etcnmachining.com/blog/painting-anodized-aluminum/ "Unlock the Secrets to Successfully Paint Anodized Aluminum")

### [Unlock the Secrets to Successfully Paint Anodized Aluminum](https://etcnmachining.com/blog/painting-anodized-aluminum/)

[Surface Finish](https://etcnmachining.com/blog/tag/surface-finish/)

April 13, 2024

Jasonxue

Getting paint to stick to anodized aluminum is challenging but not impossible. The key is prep work:...

[![The Ultimate Guide to Mill Finish Stainless Steel Surfaces](https://etcnmachining.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/4-7.png)](https://etcnmachining.com/blog/mill-finish-stainless-steel/ "The Ultimate Guide to Mill Finish Stainless Steel Surfaces")

### [The Ultimate Guide to Mill Finish Stainless Steel Surfaces](https://etcnmachining.com/blog/mill-finish-stainless-steel/)

[Surface Finish](https://etcnmachining.com/blog/tag/surface-finish/)

April 13, 2024

Jasonxue

Mill finish stainless steel is the most basic look of stainless steel after it has been manufactured,...

[![Unlock the Vibrant World of Powder Coating: Revolutionize Your Surfaces](https://etcnmachining.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/2-48.png)](https://etcnmachining.com/blog/powder-coating/ "Unlock the Vibrant World of Powder Coating: Revolutionize Your Surfaces")

### [Unlock the Vibrant World of Powder Coating: Revolutionize Your Surfaces](https://etcnmachining.com/blog/powder-coating/)

[Surface Finish](https://etcnmachining.com/blog/tag/surface-finish/)

April 12, 2024

Jasonxue

Powder coating’s like that one friend who somehow knows everything about everything. Whether it’s making...

[![The Ultimate Guide to Anodizing Aluminum Parts for a Stunning Finish](https://etcnmachining.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/2-44.png)](https://etcnmachining.com/blog/anodizing-aluminum/ "The Ultimate Guide to Anodizing Aluminum Parts for a Stunning Finish")

### [The Ultimate Guide to Anodizing Aluminum Parts for a Stunning Finish](https://etcnmachining.com/blog/anodizing-aluminum/)

[Surface Finish](https://etcnmachining.com/blog/tag/surface-finish/)

April 12, 2024

Jasonxue

Aluminum parts being turned into a sleek work of art? It’s possible. Not only does the process of anodizing...

No posts found

## Frequently Asked Questions

### Q: What affects the surface finish for CNC machining?

A: The surface quality for CNC machining is impacted by a number of things like tool speed, feed rates, tool material and condition, workpiece material, coolant use, and the actual machining process. Furthermore, the tool path strategy or the chosen milling/turning process will also dictate how rough or smooth the final product is. 

### Q: How do I know which surface finish to pick?

A: It’s really going to depend on what you’re using it for. If you need a part that looks good then focus on aesthetics like functionality and friction levels. A smooth finish may be necessary for an important component that’s always on display while a rougher one might work fine if it’s being used under the hood. Ultimately try to get in touch with your machine shop so they can guide you through their available options.

### Q: Are there different types of finishes I can choose from?

A: Yes! There are as-machined finishes (with marks) all the way up to highly polished mirror-like ones. In between those two, you have bead-blasted, anodized, powder-coated, and painted finishes. Each has its own applications but is usually chosen according to aesthetic needs.

### Q: Is there some kind of metric that measures roughness?

A: When it comes time to measure how rough a surface is, people typically use something called “roughness average” (Ra). It measures how far off a profile is from an ideal surface by looking at deviations vertically. Additionally, depending on what's needed from your measurements, this can be done either with contact-based or non-contact profilometers.

### Q: Can surface finishes enhance CNC parts’ strength?

A: While it might not directly increase the material strength, applying surface finishes can improve the corrosion resistance, wear resistance, and sometimes fatigue strength of a CNC part. Anodizing or coating creates a protective layer on the part’s outer surface. With this added protection, these processes are able to extend the life of the part under specific operating conditions.

### Q: What is considered as “standard” for surface finish in CNC machined parts?

A: In terms of a standard for CNC machined parts, there isn’t one. The necessary finish differs with each application. However, if you’re looking for something to use as a general reference point, you can consider a standard machine finish in CNC machining to be about Ra 1.6 micrometers (µm) roughness average (Ra). Nonetheless, keep in mind that to achieve the ideal result for your specific part requirements, you should always determine an actual value.

### Q: How do different materials affect the surface quality that can be achieved through CNC machining?

A: Different materials produce different surface finishes when put through the CNC machining process. For example, due to its soft nature aluminum generally ends up much smoother than stainless steel does. Harder materials will need slower machining speeds or specialized cutting tools in order to achieve good quality results. Hardness, strength and thermal conductivity are just some of the properties associated with materials that have an effect on how well they’ll come out after being put through the CNC process.

### Q: Why are some CNC machined parts smoother than others?

A: Many factors play into why some turn out better than others including but not limited to; workpiece material quality, cutting tool sharpness and material quality itself. The process used throughout plays a role too such as what is being done during it and what’s applied afterwards like grinding or polishing.

![b0b54e4c patterns10](https://etcnmachining.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/b0b54e4c-patterns10.png)

## Open your next customized parts machining

Contact us for your lowest processing price!

[GET AN INSTANT QUOTE](#elementor-action%3Aaction%3Dpopup%3Aopen%26settings%3DeyJpZCI6IjEyMzEiLCJ0b2dnbGUiOmZhbHNlfQ%3D%3D)

![Open your next customized parts machining](https://etcnmachining.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/2-56.png)

×

## Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Scroll to Top

WhatsApp us

Get in touch with ETCN company

Before uploading, compress the file into a ZIP or RAR archive, or send an email with attachments to [ting.liang@etcnbusiness.com](mailto:ting.liang@etcnbusiness.com)

Contact Form Demo

Your Name \*

Email

Phone/WhatsApp

Your Message

3D and 2D files if available

Choose File

Submit Form

Privacy Preference

We need your consent before you can continue on our website.If you are under 16 and wish to give consent to optional services, you must ask your legal guardians for permission.We use cookies and other technologies on our website. Some of them are essential, while others help us to improve this website and your experience.Personal data may be processed (e.g. IP addresses), for example for personalized ads and content or ad and content measurement.You can find more information about the use of your data in our [privacy policy]().

Privacy Preference

- Essential

  Essential cookies enable basic functions and are necessary for the proper function of the website.
- Statistics

  Marketing cookies are used by third-party advertisers or publishers to display personalized ads. They do this by tracking visitors across websites.
- Marketing

  Statistics cookies collect information anonymously. This information helps us to understand how our visitors use our website.

Accept all

Reject all

Accept only essential cookies

Accept only selected

Privacy Preference

If you are under 16 and wish to give consent to optional services, you must ask your legal guardians for permission.We use cookies and other technologies on our website. Some of them are essential, while others help us to improve this website and your experience.Personal data may be processed (e.g. IP addresses), for example for personalized ads and content or ad and content measurement.You can find more information about the use of your data in our [privacy policy]().Here you will find an overview of all cookies used. You can give your consent to whole categories or display further information and select certain cookies.

Accept all Save Accept only essential cookies

Back

Privacy Preference

Essential (1)

Essential cookies enable basic functions and are necessary for the proper function of the website.

Show Cookie Information Hide Cookie Information

| Name | Basic Cookie |
| --- | --- |
| Provider | Owner of this website |
| Purpose | Saves the visitors preferences selected in the Cookie Box of Basic Cookie. |
| Cookie Name | wish-cookie |
| Cookie Expiry | 1 Year |

Statistics (3)

Statistics

Statistics cookies collect information anonymously. This information helps us to understand how our visitors use our website.

Show Cookie Information Hide Cookie Information

| Accept | Google Ads |
| --- | --- |
| Name | Google Ads |
| Provider | Google Ireland Limited, Gordon House, Barrow Street, Dublin 4, Ireland |
| Purpose | Cookie by Google used for conversion tracking of Google Ads. |
| Privacy Policy | https://policies.google.com/privacy?hl=en |

| Accept | Google Analytics |
| --- | --- |
| Name | Google Analytics |
| Provider | Google Ireland Limited, Gordon House, Barrow Street, Dublin 4, Ireland |
| Purpose | Cookie by Google used for website analytics. Generates statistical data on how the visitor uses the website. |
| Privacy Policy | https://policies.google.com/privacy?hl=en |
| Cookie Name | \_ga,\_gat,\_gid |
| Cookie Expiry | 2 Months |

| Accept | Google Tag Manager |
| --- | --- |
| Name | Google Tag Manager |
| Provider | Google Ireland Limited, Gordon House, Barrow Street, Dublin 4, Ireland |
| Purpose | Cookie by Google used to control advanced script and event handling. |
| Privacy Policy | https://policies.google.com/privacy?hl=en |
| Cookie Name | \_ga,\_gat,\_gid |
| Cookie Expiry | 2 Years |

External Media (7)

External Media

Content from video platforms and social media platforms is blocked by default. If External Media cookies are accepted, access to those contents no longer requires manual consent.

Show Cookie Information Hide Cookie Information

| Accept | Facebook |
| --- | --- |
| Name | Facebook |
| Provider | Meta Platforms Ireland Limited, 4 Grand Canal Square, Dublin 2, Ireland |
| Purpose | Used to unblock Facebook content. |
| Privacy Policy | https://www.facebook.com/privacy/explanation |
| Host(s) | .facebook.com |

| Accept | Google Maps |
| --- | --- |
| Name | Google Maps |
| Provider | Google Ireland Limited, Gordon House, Barrow Street, Dublin 4, Ireland |
| Purpose | Used to unblock Google Maps content. |
| Privacy Policy | https://policies.google.com/privacy?hl=en&gl=en |
| Host(s) | .google.com |
| Cookie Name | NID |
| Cookie Expiry | 6 Month |

| Accept | Instagram |
| --- | --- |
| Name | Instagram |
| Provider | Meta Platforms Ireland Limited, 4 Grand Canal Square, Dublin 2, Ireland |
| Purpose | Used to unblock Instagram content. |
| Privacy Policy | https://www.instagram.com/legal/privacy/ |
| Host(s) | .instagram.com |
| Cookie Name | pigeon\_state |
| Cookie Expiry | Session |

| Accept | OpenStreetMap |
| --- | --- |
| Name | OpenStreetMap |
| Provider | Openstreetmap Foundation, St John’s Innovation Centre, Cowley Road, Cambridge CB4 0WS, United Kingdom |
| Purpose | Used to unblock OpenStreetMap content. |
| Privacy Policy | [https://wiki.osmfoundation.org/wiki/Privacy\_Policy](https://wiki.osmfoundation.org/wiki/Privacy_Policy) |
| Host(s) | .openstreetmap.org |
| Cookie Name | \_osm\_location, \_osm\_session, \_osm\_totp\_token, \_osm\_welcome, \_pk\_id., \_pk\_ref., \_pk\_ses., qos\_token |
| Cookie Expiry | 1-10 Years |

| Accept | Twitter |
| --- | --- |
| Name | Twitter |
| Provider | Twitter International Company, One Cumberland Place, Fenian Street, Dublin 2, D02 AX07, Ireland |
| Purpose | Used to unblock Twitter content. |
| Privacy Policy | https://twitter.com/privacy |
| Host(s) | .twimg.com, .twitter.com |
| Cookie Name | \_\_widgetsettings, local\_storage\_support\_test |
| Cookie Expiry | Unlimited |

| Accept | Vimeo |
| --- | --- |
| Name | Vimeo |
| Provider | Vimeo Inc., 555 West 18th Street, New York, New York 10011, USA |
| Purpose | Used to unblock Vimeo content. |
| Privacy Policy | https://vimeo.com/privacy |
| Host(s) | player.vimeo.com |
| Cookie Name | vuid |
| Cookie Expiry | 2 Years |

| Accept | YouTube |
| --- | --- |
| Name | YouTube |
| Provider | Google Ireland Limited, Gordon House, Barrow Street, Dublin 4, Ireland |
| Purpose | Used to unblock YouTube content. |
| Privacy Policy | https://policies.google.com/privacy?hl=en&gl=en |
| Host(s) | google.com |
| Cookie Name | NID |
| Cookie Expiry | 6 Month |

```json
{"@context":"https://schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https://etcnmachining.com/cnc-machining-surface-finish/#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":"1","item":{"@id":"https://etcnmachining.com","name":"Home"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":"2","item":{"@id":"https://etcnmachining.com/cnc-machining-surface-finish/","name":"CNC Machining Surface Finish"}}]}]}
{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@type":"FAQPage","mainEntity":[{"@type":"Question","name":"Q: What affects the surface finish for CNC machining?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"A: The surface quality for CNC machining is impacted by a number of things like tool speed, feed rates, tool material and condition, workpiece material, coolant use, and the actual machining process. Furthermore, the tool path strategy or the chosen milling\/turning process will also dictate how rough or smooth the final product is.\u00a0"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Q: How do I know which surface finish to pick?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"A: It\u2019s really going to depend on what you\u2019re using it for. If you need a part that looks good then focus on aesthetics like functionality and friction levels. A smooth finish may be necessary for an important component that\u2019s always on display while a rougher one might work fine if it\u2019s being used under the hood. Ultimately try to get in touch with your machine shop so they can guide you through their available options."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Q: Are there different types of finishes I can choose from?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"A: Yes! There are as-machined finishes (with marks) all the way up to highly polished mirror-like ones. In between those two, you have bead-blasted, anodized, powder-coated, and painted finishes. Each has its own applications but is usually chosen according to aesthetic needs."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Q: Is there some kind of metric that measures roughness?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"A: When it comes time to measure how rough a surface is, people typically use something called \u201croughness average\u201d (Ra). It measures how far off a profile is from an ideal surface by looking at deviations vertically. Additionally, depending on what's needed from your measurements, this can be done either with contact-based or non-contact profilometers."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Q: Can surface finishes enhance CNC parts\u2019 strength?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"A: While it might not directly increase the material strength, applying surface finishes can improve the corrosion resistance, wear resistance, and sometimes fatigue strength of a CNC part. Anodizing or coating creates a protective layer on the part\u2019s outer surface. With this added protection, these processes are able to extend the life of the part under specific operating conditions."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Q: What is considered as \u201cstandard\u201d for surface finish in CNC machined parts?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"A: In terms of a standard for CNC machined parts, there isn\u2019t one. The necessary finish differs with each application. However, if you\u2019re looking for something to use as a general reference point, you can consider a standard machine finish in CNC machining to be about Ra 1.6 micrometers (\u00b5m) roughness average (Ra). Nonetheless, keep in mind that to achieve the ideal result for your specific part requirements, you should always determine an actual value."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Q: How do different materials affect the surface quality that can be achieved through CNC machining?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"A: Different materials produce different surface finishes when put through the CNC machining process. For example, due to its soft nature aluminum generally ends up much smoother than stainless steel does. Harder materials will need slower machining speeds or specialized cutting tools in order to achieve good quality results. Hardness, strength and thermal conductivity are just some of the properties associated with materials that have an effect on how well they\u2019ll come out after being put through the CNC process."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Q: Why are some CNC machined parts smoother than others?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"A: Many factors play into why some turn out better than others including but not limited to; workpiece material quality, cutting tool sharpness and material quality itself. The process used throughout plays a role too such as what is being done during it and what\u2019s applied afterwards like grinding or polishing."}}]}
```