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Masking
for surface finishing

Passgenaues Abdecken für perfekte Ergebnisse

Selective protection for functional and defined surface areas

Not every surface of a component should or may be coated. Especially in electroplating, anodising or painting. With precise masking, we specifically protect fitting surfaces, drill holes, contact points or functional areas and thus ensure technically flawless results and maximum dimensional accuracy.

Clean edges, clear function thanks to precise masking

Masking is a crucial step in the surface finishing process. Defined areas of a workpiece are masked before coating in order to specifically exclude them from electrochemical processes.

This selective processing is particularly necessary when:

Fitting dimensions and tolerances

must be complied with

Electrical contact surfaces

should remain free

Sealing areas or mechanically stressed zones

should remain unprocessed

An optical separation

between coated and untreated surfaces is desired

Masking – protection for defined surface areas

Masking protects certain areas of a component from subsequent surface treatment. This is particularly important if different material properties or functionalities are to be retained on a workpiece.

But why is it still used?

Protection of drill holes, fitting dimensions & sensitive surfaces

Prevention of unwanted coatings

Use in aerospace, electronics & mechanical engineering

Protection of drill holes, fitting dimensions & sensitive surfaces

Prevention of unwanted coatings

Use in aerospace, electronics & mechanical engineering

    Through professional masking, we ensure that your components are finished exactly to the desired specifications.

    Properties of masking solutions

    We rely on customised masking solutions depending on requirements. From manual masking to customised plugs and masking films to specially manufactured masking devices.

    Clearly defined coating limits
    No infiltration by the media
    Technically functional and visually clean transitions
    Efficient post-processing through reliable work

    FAQ about masking during surface finishing

    What does ‘masking’ mean in surface finishing?

    Masking involves covering certain areas of a component before coating. As a result, these areas remain uncoated and functional – for example, fits, sealing surfaces, threads or electrical contact points.

    In which processes is masking used?

    Masking is used, for example, for electroplating, anodising, powder coating and painting – wherever only selected surfaces are to be coated.

    What masking methods does Metalux use?

    Depending on the component and requirement, we use:

    • Special masking films or masking lacquers
    • Silicone plugs, caps or customised covers
    • Manual covering for individual parts or complex geometries
    • Devices for series masking for large quantities
    Why is masking so important?

    Because the coating can otherwise affect undesirable areas – for example through layer build-up on mating surfaces, electrical insulation at contact points or visually unclean transitions.

    What happens if masking is not done accurately?

    Imprecise masking can lead to dimensional deviations, loss of function or reworking. That’s why we rely on experienced employees and harmonised processes to precisely adhere to coating limits.

    Can masking also be used for complex components?

    Yes. Precise masking is also possible for multi-dimensional geometries, drill holes or sensitive zones – by combining different techniques and, if necessary, customised masking aids.