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Stainless polishing system - long profiles

2004

We are a manufacturer that has primarily utilized aluminum extrusion profiles in the manufacture of our products. We have begun the manufacture of a higher end line utilizing stainless steel profiles. As this product is becoming a higher percentage of our business, it is becoming very apparent that we need to find a better method of polishing the profiles. We have two problems:

1) The profiles come un-polished from our roll former. They are unwilling to polish the metal, therefore we must polish it in house. I envision some sort of in line polishing system that will accomplish this. We have about 12 different profiles. All just need the outside surface polished. Lengths vary from 80" to 120".

2) We need to finish polish the parts after bending. These parts are bent on a stretch former and therefore are somewhat complex in shape. There are many different variations of these parts. Can anybody help guide us?

Jeff Day
Manufacturer - Bradenton, Florida, USA

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First of two simultaneous responses --

Since your shapes are complex and polishing has to be done after forming, you most probably will need to look into electropolishing. This is a dedicated business, not something you just add to your present facilities, so it might be better for you to get in touch with a company that can do it for you.

Guillermo Marrufo
Monterrey, NL, Mexico
2004

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Second of two simultaneous responses --

Polishing and dealing with contours is not an easy task. The best way to handle short parts is via mass finishing equipment; however, with long parts that would cost you a fortune and could possible distort your parts. I think your best bet is to buy pre-polished raw material and then get a good roll former.To polish after roll forming is possible but set ups for contour configurations might not be profitable.

AF Kenton
retired business owner - Hatboro, Pennsylvania
2004

Electropolishing will leave an undesired surface, noticeable to the touch. hand-polishing with specialty equipment after forming is the only way. Low labor cost countries can do this competitively.

Erik Van Veenen
stainless railing etc. - Leek, Netherlands
2004