# Finishing There are two key stages following welding: ### Grinding back welds It is often desirable to grind or 'push' back a weld after welding is complete. This allows for a cleaner finish, a more even surface, and better component tolerances. {% content-ref url="finishing/cleaning-welds" %} [cleaning-welds](https://ms-kb.msd.unimelb.edu.au/msdmaker/metal-work-area/finishing/cleaning-welds) {% endcontent-ref %} ### Applying Finishes The final stage of fabrication is to apply finishes. Finishes are surface applications which serve multiple functions, including to protect from oxidisation, to protect from damage, and to give desired aesthetic outcomes. {% content-ref url="finishing/finishes" %} [finishes](https://ms-kb.msd.unimelb.edu.au/msdmaker/metal-work-area/finishing/finishes) {% endcontent-ref %} --- # Agent Instructions: Querying This Documentation If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question. Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter: ``` GET https://ms-kb.msd.unimelb.edu.au/msdmaker/metal-work-area/finishing.md?ask= ``` The question should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language. The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation. Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.