Polishing vs. Buffing: The Differences
When it comes to stainless-steel fabrication, it’s important to know the characteristics of polishing and buffing, as well as their differences . By knowing each of these three, you can choose the best option for your fabrication. If you’re not sure what kind of finish you need, this guide can provide you with a simple overview.
What Is Polishing?
To understand the differences between polishing and buffing, you must have a deeper understanding of each process. Polishing is typically done prior to completing a buffing finish. For that reason, we’ll dive into this process first.
Polishing is a finishing process that utilizes a secure abrasive belt on a wheel to create a brushed or lined finish. Polishing can level metal surfaces as well as remove imperfections like pits, lines, and scratches.
To successfully complete the first polishing process, you must use the finest abrasive possible.
What is Buffing?
Buffing is a similar process to polishing. Many people don’t know they’re actually two separate processes. This is because buffing is also a finishing process meant to remove imperfections.
What sets buffing apart from polishing is it involves using a loose abrasive on the buffing wheel. This loose abrasive contains a liquid rouge known as compound. Compound is utilized by the buffing wheel to complete the surface finishing.
The Key Difference
The key difference between polishing and buffing lies within the grit of each abrasive. For example, polishing is typically performed using a high-grit abrasive. Buffing, on the other hand, is performed using a low-grit abrasive.
Here at CMPI, our standard polishing services range from 50-400+ grit. Whichever style finish you need, we are happy to get started on your stainless material.
The Services CMPI Offers
Now you know what polishing and buffing is, as well as their differences , you’ll be happy to know CMPI can offer you a wide range of stainless-steel plate polishing services.
Here at CMPI we offer:
- Sheet and Plate Polishing
- Pipe Polishing
- Tube Polishing
- Bar Polishing
- ID/OD Spin Polishing
- Custom Parts and Pieces Polishing
For all your metal fabrication needs, you can count on CMPI for your one-stop shop. Our experts are certified and trained in various metal fabrication techniques and methods. For questions regarding what CMPI can do for your business, simply give us a call. Our team is ready to help.
