Method for making sheet metal components with textured surfaces

This invention pertains to the processing of certain metal alloys to produce an orange peel-like textured surface. More specifically, this invention pertains to the controlled cold working of a superplastic-formable (SPF) metal alloy sheet so as to yield a roughened textured surface in at least a portion of the sheet upon stretch forming at a suitable elevated temperature and strain rate. Pre-straining and thermal recrystallization processes for maximizing formability in SPF sheet alloys of aluminum, magnesium, iron and titanium can be modified to form sheet products with roughened or textured surfaces for low-slip applications or coating adherence or decorative applications. By determination of suitable pre-strain levels and recrystallization/forming temperatures for s sheet metal stock, relatively large grained microstructures are formed in the sheet that yield useful surface texture during forming.