The Importance Of Industrial and Manufacturing Industries

Polishing Aluminum to a Near Chrome Like Shine

21 June 2021 by Todd Edwards

Aluminum is a durable material and is lightweight, so it is often a good fit for a product that needs to last a long time. Many times, aluminum is polished to provide a specific look, and in many cases, industrial aluminum polishing is used on products produced in bulk.

Cleaning The Metal

When industrial aluminum polishing is being used, the process of washing and cleaning the metal is often handled on a larger scale but is the same as polishing a single item. The aluminum needs to be washed with a detergent or cleaner to remove any dirt or grease from the surface and leave the metal free from film or other residues. 

The washing process typically includes several washes and rinses to ensure that the surface of the aluminum doesn't have anything on it that may interfere with the polishing. Once the aluminum is clean, it is dried thoroughly using blowing air to ensure the water does not leave marks or blemishes on the surface of the aluminum that might show up on the polished surface. 

Polishing The Surface

Once the aluminum is clean and dry, the metal can be polished using a series of polishing wheels that use a polishing compound with specific contents to produce the shine. The surface is polished several times using a finer grit polishing wheel each time until the surface is smooth and there are no scratches or marks on it. Once the final polishing is completed, the surface can be buffed with a soft pad and buffing compound to increase the shine and seal the metal to help maintain the luster for a long time. 

Often, the polishing process is done after any cutting or bending is done to the aluminum so it won't damage the surface. If the aluminum is being used in full sheets by the customer, it can be cut to size and then polished before it is sent out to them. 

Maintaining The Polished Surface

Caring for the polished aluminum is not difficult and will maintain the shine for many years. Wash the surface of the polished aluminum with a mild cleaner that will not stain the metal. After that, all you typically need is a good aluminum polish and a rag to go over the surface with. Many auto part stores and home centers have an aluminum polish that is easy to use and will protect the surface. 

For more information about industrial aluminum polishing services, contact a local business in your area.

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