Lian explains, the Q-Fin applications one by one. Last time she discussed the most frequently asked questions about the edge rounding of metal parts. Another essential application in metalworking is the finishing of metal parts. What is it? And why is it so important? Lian explains.

“By metal finishing we mean the final finishing of the metal parts. In the production of metal, irregularities occur as standard. The finishing of metal makes sure that these irregularities are removed. This can be done in various ways.

 

Why finishing?

“This final step in the production process of metal parts contributes to the protection and aesthetics of the products. It improves the appearance of the parts and thus their durability. It also makes the parts wear-resistant and corrosion-proof. A smooth surface is easier to clean and requires less maintenance. So it’s ideal for industries where hygiene is a top priority.”

 

How to finish?

“Finishing metal can be done in various ways. Although it used to be done by hand, for example with a flex-tool, machines are increasingly used nowadays. These automatic machines are set up for your specific requirements. Any desired finish is possible. Also with the finishing machines of Q-Fin. I will now explain a number of possible finishes for you.”

 

Line finish grinding

“Line finish’ is the most common finish for metal, especially stainless steel. Stainless steel parts with a line grind finish, popularly called ‘brushed’ or ‘satin’, are usually used for visible work: products such as extractor hoods. Surface grinding is usually indicated by a grain size that indicates how finely the surface has been ground. The larger the number, the finer the grit of the grinding belt. For example K320 stands for a 320 grit finish, this means that there are 320 grits on every square centimetre.

Q-Fin machines enable you to give products from 10 mm wide to 1500 mm wide the grinding structure of your choice. A finish with Scotch-Brite or Trizact is also possible. Changing the grinding belt is a snap thanks to the quick-release system.



 

Grinding without direction

“Directionless grinding is a form of brushed finish for sheet metal work. The term says it all - there is no direction in the grinding structure. This directionless grinding finish is very popular among architects and machine builders. This is because they can use the ground products in all possible directions. It is a finish that is particularly used for stainless steel. Directionless grinding is also known as eccentric grinding, orbital grinding, whirling or quivering. Because the scratches on the product run in all directions, the product is much less susceptible to scratching than a plate polished in line, and can be touched up afterwards.”

 

Polishing

“Metal sheet parts can be ground as smooth as a mirror. If a metal product is to have a mirror-like or high-gloss surface, polishing is the way to go. In this process, the surface is first smoothed step by step with progressively finer abrasives. This preliminary process involves grinding to K800. Then the actual polishing begins. Here, practically no material is removed any more, but the surface is “refined” by means of polishing pastes. Visually, a lot changes: the matt finish is transformed into a shiny surface. The surface roughness is increasingly reduced, which has all kinds of technical advantages.

 

As indicated earlier, Q-Fin specialises in developing, building and selling finishing machines. In our showroom in Bergeijk we would like to demonstrate the possibilities. Come and visit us or discover our extensive range online!

Finishing is just one of the applications that our machines can help you with. In our next blog, Lian will tell you all about removing metal slag.