One of the most frequently asked process requests that we receive is how to finish stainless steel.
Depending on the beginning finish of the stainless, we determine what grit sequence to start with. Assuming we have relatively clean stainless with very little surface defects or orange peel, the starting grit would be a 180 grit aluminum oxide with a grinding aid. Then drop down to a 240 grit with grinding aid, 320 grit with grinding aid, and then change to a structured abrasive provided by Norton (U242x16) or 3M (307A16).
Finishing surface speed per minute should be 3000-5000 sfpm. This would be the extent of the polishing.
The buffing sequence is as follows:
Surface speeds for buffing
Cut operation 8000
Color operation 5000
Begin with an untreated sisal with 1/4" sewing for your cut-down buffing. Apply greasy steel cut compound. We recommend Formax SC18, or Jackson Lea 2433A
For the final color operation, use a standard Airflex buff with firm treatment and white color compound. We recommend Formax Black Magic, or Jackson Lea C3695B.
For extreme high color, use an Airflex buff with soft treatment and ruge. We recommend Jackson Lea C3570.
You should be able to achieve mirror finish following this process.
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