Types of metal finishing
At POLIRO, we deal with a variety of metal finishing methods, including grinding, satinising and mirror polishing. These methods allow us to achieve a variety of aesthetic and functional results depending on the requirements of the specific project.
Sanding helps us to create an even and clean surface by removing any irregularities or imperfections. Satinising is used to create a matt, expensive appearance, which can be ideal for those looking for a more understated and refined look. Mirror polishing, as the name suggests, creates a shiny, mirror-like surface, which is ideal for creating statement and impressive details.
Furthermore, we are actively developing and endeavouring to master other metalworking techniques. We are confident that mastering new technologies will allow us to offer our customers even more choice and guarantee the highest quality of work, whatever the task.
Let's explore and familiarise ourselves with the various metal finishing methods described below:
Furthermore, we are actively developing and endeavouring to master other metalworking techniques. We are confident that mastering new technologies will allow us to offer our customers even more choice and guarantee the highest quality of work, whatever the task.
Let's explore and familiarise ourselves with the various metal finishing methods described below:
Grinding
Grinding is the process of removing irregularities and surface defects in metal using abrasive material. It is one of the most common methods of metal working, as it gives the product a smooth and uniform surface. Grinding is usually carried out with the help of a grinding machine, abrasive stones or sandpaper. The method helps to produce a fairly uniform and even matte finish on the surface.
Mirror polish
Polishing is the process of treating the surface of metal to give it a mirror-like shine. This is achieved by removing thin layers of metal, thereby levelling the surface and removing any visible scratches and irregularities. Both coarse and finish polishing compounds are used in combination with muslin wheels of different hardness. This allows you to achieve the optimum result and create a perfectly polished surface.
Satinising
Satinising is the process of giving metal a matte, slightly rough appearance. This is achieved by treating the surface of the metal with abrasive materials, which creates a unique texture. Satinising is typically used to create an elegant, refined look for a product that doesn't shine as much as a polished product. In simple terms, satinising is the process of grinding the surface to create directional ridges.
Galvanics
Galvanising is a process involving coating a metal with another metal or metalloid to improve its appearance and protect it from corrosion. This is achieved by immersing the item in a bath of electrolyte and passing an electric current through it.
electrolyte and passing an electric current through it.
electrolyte and passing an electric current through it.
Sandblasting
Sandblasting uses high velocity abrasive particles to clean the surface of metal and give it a matte, even finish. It can also be used to remove old paint or rust before new machining or painting. We are actively mastering sandblasting, which plays an important role in our workshop. This process allows us to clean and give a factory matt finish to elements of classic watches.
Oxidisation
Oxidising, also known as anodising, is used to increase the thickness of the natural oxide layer on the surface of a metal, usually aluminium. This improves corrosion resistance, enhances durability and allows the introduction of decorative colours.
Laser treatment
Metal laser processing is a process involving the use of laser beams to treat or modify the surface properties of metal. This method can be used for a variety of applications including cutting, welding, etching and marking.
Electropolishing
Electropolishing is the reverse process of electroplating and is used to improve the smoothness and lustre of a metal surface. The electropolishing process removes microscopic irregularities, resulting in a very smooth and bright surface. We are also passionate about electropolishing and will definitely introduce this technology in every POLIRO workshop. It is particularly useful when working on classic watches and jewellery, where there are hard-to-reach places that are difficult to reach with hand tools
Heat treatment
Heat treatment involves changing the properties of a metal by heating and then cooling it. The process can improve the strength and stiffness of the metal, reduce its brittleness and improve its resistance to corrosion.
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It is important to choose the right treatment method and use the appropriate tools and materials to achieve the optimum result. Metal finishing is a truly magical process, especially mirror polishing, which turns an inconspicuous surface into a perfect mirror.
POLIRO endeavours to be at the forefront of the development and adoption of new metal finishing technologies to meet the needs and expectations of its customers. We hope that this article has been useful to you and has helped to expand your knowledge of metal finishing.
POLIRO endeavours to be at the forefront of the development and adoption of new metal finishing technologies to meet the needs and expectations of its customers. We hope that this article has been useful to you and has helped to expand your knowledge of metal finishing.
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