Surface Finish Calculator

What is a Surface Finish?

Surface finish, also known as surface texture or surface topography, refers to the characteristics of a surface that define its physical and aesthetic properties. It is a critical aspect in manufacturing and engineering, as it can greatly affect the performance, functionality, and service life of a product or component. Surface finish can include factors such as roughness, waviness, lay, and flaws. Roughness refers to the fine irregularities in the surface texture, usually resulting from the production process. Waviness is the measurement of the more widely spaced component of surface texture. Lay is the direction of the predominant surface pattern, and flaws are unintentional, random, and non-repeatable irregularities. The surface finish can be measured and quantified using various techniques and instruments, and it can be altered or improved through processes such as polishing, grinding, coating, and so on.