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Stainless, mechanical finishing

I am new to stainless finishing and I am totally confused by the number of alternative abrasives. What are the differences between; gum wheels, flap wheels, woven wheels, and nonwoven wheels. I know the physical difference but what physical feature does each contribute to the appearance? Using the same grit#, what advantage does one have over the other?

Also, which process works better on flat sheets for say a #3 or 4 finish, drum finishing or rotary finishing?

Thanks for the help.

Ernie Leopold
small fabricator - Imperial, Pennsylvania
2005

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All systems work or do something to the end product and it is all based upon pressure and/or how the energy is applied. Therefore, your question is not simple; rather, it is or should be based upon the equipment you have in house or want to use. Then again, you may be locked in to personnel that have certain abilities. Most abrasives have a specific hardness and what harness you use depends on the end material you are working. In your case SS is one of the tougher metals, but it is usually worked with alum oxide products. If you are talking about wide broad flat sheet type products, take a look at companies and products like Timesaver.

AF Kenton
retired business owner - Hatboro, Pennsylvania
2005

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2005

Mr. Kenton,

Thank you for your response. I know my question was rather broad based, I was hoping for some generalities when it comes to polishing stainless. I can see now the process is much more involved than I had anticipated.

Thanks again for your help.

Ernie Leopold
- Imperial, Pennsylvania