Polishing
Surface finish via polishing
Whether for producing flawless, shiny design elements, preparing materials for subsequent processing, or for practical considerations, polishing is an absolute classic among finishing processes and today's finishing industry would be inconceivable without it.
Although polishing always follows the same pattern when viewed from the outside, there is hardly any other area of application for surface treatment that is so broadly based. A wide variety of applications are available as polishing agents and processes for the respective processing, so that the polished end product meets the highest aesthetic and haptic standards and offers the greatest possible durability and most practical applicability in its use.
What is common to all processes is that they are characterized by a small amount of material removal, which only takes place on the bare surface of the material and is intended here to change and smooth the structure of the surface. There is no change in the shape of the polished product, so polishing can easily be the last step in the process that changes the surface. Often, polishing also follows as a downstream process from grinding.
Service for industry and trade
A wide variety of requirements from industry and commerce can necessitate the polishing of objects and product parts. While from a purely technical point of view, the smooth polished surface of products in the medical, chemical and food industries prevents the adhesion of bacteria and germs, certain requirements in building construction may require a smooth surface of components so that they can be installed more easily in their area of use or convince with a longer durability and increased weather resistance.
But polishing is not only an extremely sought-after finishing process from a practical point of view. Decorative requirements for the optical design of components in the construction industry as well as for elements in the field of automotive manufacturing and processing or in the production of household appliances also require extended efforts in the field of surface finishing. Due to the shimmering appearance created by polishing, polished surfaces are refreshing design elements that easily fit into any design environment thanks to their restrained sheen and are also convincing in combination with other materials.
Finally, downstream processing steps such as electroplating of precious metal surfaces may require polishing.
Since the polishing agent is determined according to the starting material to be further processed, prior fine-tuning between surface and polish is essential in any case, so that only a mere surface change is brought about. This also avoids coarse removal of the actual product substance.
Individual service
Les Graveurs sees itself as a specialist service provider for automated, machine and manual polishing, adapted to the respective needs and requirements of the starting material. This means that even sensitive materials can shine in new splendor after polishing in our company. For processing, we have different polishing agents and pastes in the strengths "highly abrasive" and "medium abrasive" as well as for the bare finish or the final sealing, which can be selected depending on the roughness depth and thus optimally adapted to the characteristics of the processed surface.
In the automotive industry, on the other hand, polishing is carried out on the basis of automotive clearcoat.
The subsequent processing is done with the help of rubber, leather, cloth and felt rags.
FAQ – Surface Treatment via Polishing
What is polishing as a surface treatment?
Polishing is a fine finishing process where the surface of a material is smoothed and refined to achieve a flawless, shiny finish. It is often used as the final step in processing and involves minimal material removal, affecting only the surface.
Why is polishing used?
Polishing is used for both aesthetic and practical reasons. It creates a shiny appearance that is valued in design and decoration. From a technical perspective, a polished surface improves durability, reduces bacterial adhesion, and facilitates the handling of components, especially in industries such as medical technology, chemistry, or food production.
What materials can be polished?
Polishing can be applied to a wide range of materials, including metals such as stainless steel, aluminum, and copper, as well as plastics, glass, and painted surfaces, such as those used in the automotive industry. Depending on the material, the appropriate polishing compounds and techniques are selected to achieve the best surface quality.
How is polishing performed?
Polishing is performed either mechanically or manually, depending on the requirements and material. Various polishing compounds and pastes, ranging from abrasive to fine finishes, are used to smooth the surface. The process is completed using cloth, leather, or felt pads to bring the surface to a high gloss.
What are the applications of polishing?
Polished surfaces are used in various fields, including the automotive industry, medical technology, household appliances, and construction. A polished, shiny surface not only enhances the appearance but also increases durability and resistance to environmental factors.
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