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  for Metal Finishing since 1989
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Orthopedic mfgr. can't reconcile Ra numbers of satin finish vs. bright buff

I am an Engineer in a Orthopedics manufacturing company. Recently, We are doing some implant parts that required surface finish with Ra 16 microinch max with Satin finish.
The question is if the Ra result is 11. But how are we going to measure the polished area of Satin finish?

On the other hand, Similar product for implant, the surface finish requirement is Ra 16 Max followed by bright Buff.
The question is if the Ra is 11. But how are we going to measure the Bright buff? Or Can someone able to explain what is the meaning of bright buff?

Thanks

Darren Wong Khor Wend
Engineer - Malaysia
2007

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Naturally you know you can measure the Ra with a profilometer; however, a bight buff is somewhat a generic term. Meaning you can achieve the Ra 11 or 16 as a dull flat finish or a reflective or bright finish. The surface will be the same but the appearance will be different. The term bight buff is a reflective finish.

AF Kenton
retired business owner - Hatboro, Pennsylvania
2007