Metals: Finishes
Design & Technology: AQA GCSE, topic 4.10.3
Finishes
Finishes are used to enhance the appearance and functionality of metal surfaces.
Polishing
- Polishing is a process of smoothing a metal surface.
- Polishing achieves a glossy, reflective finish.
- Polishing involves abrasively removing material.
- To remove material, progressively finer grits of abrasive compounds or polishing wheels are used.
- Polishing can be done manually or with the use of polishing machines.
Brushing
- Brushing is also known as satin finishing.
- Brushing creates a brushed or satin texture on the metal surface.
- This is achieved by brushing the metal surface with abrasive pads or wire brushes.
- Brushed finishes are commonly used to achieve a textured or matte appearance.
Grinding
- Grinding uses abrasive grinding wheels or belts to remove material from the metal surface.
- Grinding is used to:
- Create precise dimensions.
- Remove surface defects.
- Achieve specific surface roughness.
Buffing
- Buffing uses rotating cloth or felt wheels and polishing compounds.
- Buffing achieves a smooth and shiny finish on metal surfaces.
- Buffing is done after polishing or grinding.
- Buffing further refines the surface and enhances its lustre.
Electropolishing
- Electropolishing is an electrochemical process.
- Electropolishing removes a thin layer of metal from the surface.
- The thin layer of metal is removed using an electrically charged electrolyte solution.
- Electropolishing is used to:
- Smooth the surface.
- Removes micro imperfections.
- Enhance corrosion resistance.
Test yourself on Metals: Finishes
What finishing technique achieves a textured or matte appearance?