The metal finishing process begins with metal treatment and cleaning.

In order for finishes to be successfully applied in later operations, metal surfaces must first be sufficiently cleaned.

Removal of grease and oil from surfaces prior to painting or other surface preparation is critical for acceptable adhesion. The degree of cleanliness required varies with the particular finishing operation. Phosphates are used for both acidic and alkaline cleaners.

There is a diverse range of product applications in the metal treatment and cleaning industry. In some cases, removal of surface oxide films by cleaning formulations is required. In others, it is desirable to form a protective coating of oxide or phosphate, which is known as phosphatizing.