Which of the following is NOT a benefit of having an appropriate surface finish on sheet metal?

Having an appropriate surface finish on sheet metal offers a variety of benefits that enhance both the performance and longevity of the material. Enhanced aesthetic appearance ensures that the metal looks appealing, which is essential in applications where visual aspects matter, such as in consumer products and visible components of machinery.

Increased fatigue strength is another important benefit because a well-finished surface can help distribute stress more evenly, reducing the likelihood of cracks and extending the life of the part under repetitive loading conditions. Improved corrosion resistance protects the metal from environmental factors that could lead to deterioration, significantly increasing its durability.

The assertion that decreased manufacturing time is not a benefit of an appropriate surface finish is accurate. While processes like polishing or coating can improve the performance characteristics of the metal, they often add additional steps or require more meticulous handling, which can increase the overall manufacturing time rather than decrease it. Thus, while surface finishes provide many advantages to sheet metal products, efficiency in manufacturing time is not typically one of those benefits.