Types and Selection Methods of Polishing Materials

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Types of Polishing Materials:

1. Synthetic Corundum:

Synthetic corundum possesses high hardness and relatively low toughness compared to other abrasives. It is primarily used for rough grinding and polishing low-strength metals such as cast iron, brass, and bronze.

2. Alumina (Corundum):

Alumina is available in both synthetic and natural forms. The higher the alumina (Al2O3) content in corundum, the greater its hardness. Corundum is suitable for coarse grinding using grinding wheels and has greater toughness compared to synthetic corundum. The particles of corundum are multi-faced, resulting in less sharp edges compared to synthetic corundum. It is suitable for polishing tough metals with high fracture resistance, such as hardened steel, malleable cast iron, and manganese bronze.

3. Emery:

Emery exhibits moderate hardness and excellent toughness, making it suitable for polishing all types of metals.

4. Diatomaceous Earth:

Diatomaceous earth has less sharp cutting edges and excellent toughness. It is used to remove scratches and defects on metal surfaces. Diatomaceous earth is a widely used material for general polishing and finishing applications.

5. Quartz Sand:

Quartz sand consists of particles with moderate hardness. It does not possess sharp cutting edges but offers good toughness. Quartz sand is a versatile material used for general polishing and finishing purposes.

6. Pumice:

Pumice has poor hardness and is relatively brittle. It is suitable for grinding and polishing materials such as wood, leather, rubber, plastic, and glass.

Selection Methods:

Based on the properties of the various abrasive materials mentioned above, we can summarize the following selection methods for different metal polishing applications:

1. Polishing Hard Metal Products:

For polishing hard metal products, it is advisable to use synthetic corundum, alumina, or emery for initial coarse grinding. Followed by fine grinding using fine-grit emery, pumice, quartz powder, or similar materials to achieve a smooth finish.

2. Polishing Soft Metal Products:

When polishing soft metal products, it is generally recommended to use diatomaceous earth and pumice. These materials provide effective polishing without causing excessive wear on softer metal surfaces.

Understanding the different types of polishing materials and their properties is crucial for achieving the desired surface finish in metalworking processes. The selection of the appropriate abrasive material depends on the hardness and strength of the metal being polished. Synthetic corundum, alumina, and emery are ideal for polishing hard metals, while diatomaceous earth and pumice are suitable for polishing soft metals. By choosing the right abrasive material and employing proper polishing techniques, professionals can enhance the efficiency and quality of their metal polishing operations.

Remember to consider factors such as the specific metal being worked on, the desired surface finish, and the recommended grit size for optimal results. By utilizing the appropriate polishing materials, you can achieve exceptional polishing outcomes and enhance the overall performance and appearance of metal products.