What is one of the main reasons to control surface finish in sheet metal?

Controlling the surface finish of sheet metal is crucial for enhancing mechanical properties. A well-managed surface finish can lead to improved fatigue resistance, increased tensile strength, and better corrosion resistance. When the surface is properly treated and finished, it can also contribute to a more uniform distribution of stresses during load applications, which is vital in aircraft and other structural applications where safety and performance are critical.

Surface finish relates directly to how materials respond under operational conditions. For example, a smoother finish may reduce the likelihood of crack initiation, while a rougher finish could behave differently under stress. The treatment processes—such as polishing, coating, or anodizing—are chosen to achieve specific mechanical attributes that align with the intended use of the component. In aerospace applications, these characteristics can directly affect durability and longevity, making surface finish a fundamental consideration in design engineering.