Polishing Standards/Descriptions

 
 

 

Mirror Finish/Buff (1 to 4 Ra)    

The finest mirror finish.  Used mainly for finishing  parts where cosmetic appearance is critical. 
(Equivalent to a 1200 grit or better polish)     

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Light Finish/Buff (10 Ra)

Close to a mirror polish but with less shine.  Typically used on molds that produce cosmetically finished parts.
(Equivalent to 600 to 1200 grit polish)

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600 Grit Paper(10 Ra) 

The highest finish before the buffing process. Mostly used on highly cosmetic parts that are to be chrome plated or painted. 

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400 Grit Paper(11/12 Ra) 

Close to a 600 grit paper finish, but with a deeper directional pattern.  Less shine than a 600-paper finish.

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320 Grit Paper(14/15 Ra) 

Close to a 400 grit paper finish, but with a deeper directional pattern.  Less shine than a 400-paper finish.  It is typically referred to as a #4 pharmaceutical finish.

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240 Grit Paper(under 32Ra)

Close to a 320 grit paper finish, but with a deeper directional pattern.  Less shine than a 320-paper finish.  This finish is also sometimes called a #4 pharmaceutical finish.

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180/150 Grit Paper(33/50 Ra)  

Close to a 240 grit paper finish, but with a deeper directional pattern.  Less shine than a 240-paper finish.  This is sometimes referred to as a #4 sanitary finish.

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100/120 Grit Paper(50/70 Ra)  

Close to a 180/150 grit paper finish, but with a deeper directional pattern.  Less shine than a 180/150-paper finish.  It is sometimes referred to as a #3 Architectural finish.

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60/80 Grit Paper(80/100 Ra)  

Close to a 100/120 grit paper finish, but with a deeper directional pattern.  Less shine than a 100/120-paper finish. It is also called a #2 Satin finish.

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36 Grit Paper(150 or above Ra)  

  The deepest and roughest finish used to remove gating, parting lines and mill scale from metal plates, bars, tubes and castings. Usually this operation is not a finish operation as much as it is a processing operation used to prepare a part for either machining or to meet drawing requirements. It's also known as a #1 finish.

 

Profilometer Certification

We will supply  profilometer certifications to any customer requirements documenting that proper RA's are met as requested.
 

Stainless Steel Preventive Maintenance Suggestions
 
Inspect the Stainless on a frequent schedule taking note of discoloration and stains. Discoloration can and should be removed by cleaners made for stainless steel.
 
For ongoing maintenance consisting of a clean water wash and wiping with a clean cloth is recommended to retard deterioration. In all but the most severe cases,  regular washing can and will eliminate the need for refinishing.
 
DO NOT use steel wool or harsh abrasive elements.