metal polishing
By Dan Markham Design • General Information • Management • • 0 Comments

Comparing The Different Methods of Metal Polishing

The technique for metal surface polishing is one of the greatest ways to make pieces look good. With a polished surface finish, these components perform better and last longer. Over time, metal surfaces frequently discolor. The surfaces of such metals often become compromised by exposure to high temperatures and wear levels. A polished metal component, however, is shielded from contaminants and oxidation. Here are some of the most common polishing methods for metals in addition to their advantages and disadvantages:

Chemical Polishing

The protruding portion of a material surface is preferentially dissolved in a chemical media during this polishing surface finish. After the procedure, a smooth surface is desired. The chemical solution plus galvanic couples impact the metal surface during the chemical polishing. However, chemical polishing often results in the micro-roughness component being polished and smoothed. Additionally, the top layer of the element dissolves as a result.

Mechanical Polishing

This polishing technique relies on cutting or plastic deformation of the material’s surface. The surface is then made smooth by eliminating polished convexities. Sandpaper, flat wheels, abrasive sticks, and other materials are frequently used in mechanical polishing. Using specialized abrasive tools and pushing them on the surface of a treated workpiece is how ultra-precision polishing is done. The entire procedure rotates quickly in a polishing solution that contains abrasives. 

Electrolytic Polishing

This kind of polishing is sometimes referred to as electrolytic polishing. You could occasionally hear anodic polishing. Electrolytic and anodic polishing relate to a polished surface finish that operates similarly to chemical polishing. Protrusions on metal surfaces are dissolved using chemical solutions as part of this procedure to obtain a better surface finish. The cathode reaction does not impact electrolytic polishing, unlike chemical polishing. By polishing the metal component, extra materials are removed. Doing so smoothens the part’s troughs and micro-peaks, lessens surface roughness, and enhances surface polish.

Reasons Why Electropolishing is Better Than Mechanical Polishing

  • Because of the higher densities at high spots, burrs may be removed much more quickly. As a result, the final product has a smooth, clean surface.
  • It shrinks the material’s surface area to a tiny size. As a result, there is a general decrease in product adhesion and contaminant buildup.
  • It enhances the machined part’s appearance. Surfaces on tiny scales are cleaned and smoothed when electropolishing is done correctly.

Contact Markham Metals Today!

Markham Metals is the most trusted metal service business in the New England region. There are different metal polishing methods, each with pros and cons for the metal it is used. However, it needs considerable attention and decision-making in choosing the right metal polishing method for the metal in question. For questions on our metal polishing services or information on our products and services, call us today at 978-658-1121 or contact us directly on our site.

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