Letter 152

Need automatic buffing equipment, or training in buffing

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I have a client who does replating and restoring of antique metal items such as lamps, kettles, and fixtures. Mostly with copper and brass finishes. They have a real bottleneck in the buffing or polishing area as this takes along time to get good at and is done by hand on a wheel. We are looking for new technology to speed up this process or training materials to get new people up to speed quicker. Thanks for the help!

Mike W - Industrial Specialist
putreach center, Waterloo, Iowa

Automatic buffing machines are large and expensive and I really doubt that they will prove applicable for an assortment of parts like this, Mike. You might contact ASM International to see if they have a buffing course. But buffing is difficult, and it is perhaps best taught in an apprenticeship format, rather than as a crash course. Maybe one of our retired readers could conduct some longterm hands-on training for your client? Good luck!

Regards,

Ted Mooney, P.E.
finishing.com
Brick, New Jersey