viilaus

Viilaus is the process of shaping and smoothing a material by removing small amounts with a hand file or rasp. In Finnish usage, the term covers both metalworking and woodworking finishing, ranging from rough shaping to fine finishing to achieve accurate dimensions and smooth surfaces. The exact result depends on the file type, cut, and technique.

Tools used in viilaus include a variety of files and rasps. Files come in shapes such as flat, half-round, round, and triangular, while rasps are common in woodworking. Files are classified by cut grade, typically rough, bastard, second cut, and smooth, with finishing often performed by finer files or emery cloth. Files may be used with a handle and held in a bench vise or by hand, depending on the workpiece.

Techniques emphasize controlled material removal and surface quality. The workpiece should be secured, and the file used with steady, even strokes in a consistent direction. Maintaining the correct angle and keeping the file clean to prevent tooth clogging are important. In some cases a light lubricant or oil is used to reduce heat and prolong file life. After filing, deburring and a final smoothing pass with a finer file or abrasive paper may be performed.

Applications of viilaus span metal fabrication, mechanical fitting, and woodworking, including shaping flats, shoulders, slots, and accurate joints, as well as smoothing edges and preparing surfaces for finishing. The practice is a fundamental finishing step in many crafts and manufacturing contexts.