Aloha, fun & authoritative answers -- no cost, no registration, no passwords, no popups
(as an eBay Partner & Amazon Affiliate we earn from qualifying purchases)

Where the
world gathers for metal finishing
Q&As since 1989

-----

Can't achieve AISI #4 base finish on 316L SS tube

I am required on a present project to meet the following spec.: The stainless steel tube is to receive a non-directional finish of an AISI No.4 base finish with non-directional finish apply over it to create a "satin" or "angel hair" finish made up of various sized and shaped grain lines ranging from 1 to 10 mm going in all directions. We are starting with a #4 or 180 grit in a directional pattern to take out all the imperfections followed by hand polishing with 80 grit. My problem is that I cannot get rid of the grain lines in the directional. They want the appearance of scratches which I cannot make happen with the directional lines. Could you send me a procedural per this spec. so I can try and understand why my process is not working.

Sincerely yours,

Phil Williams
stainless fabrication shop - Columbus, Ohio
March 13, 2009

What is the size of your tubing? That will determine the process.

AF Kenton
retired business owner - Hatboro, Pennsylvania
March 17, 2009

(No "dead threads" here! If this page isn't currently on the Hotline your Q, A, or Comment will restore it)

Q, A, or Comment on THIS thread -or- Start a NEW Thread

Disclaimer: It's not possible to fully diagnose a finishing problem or the hazards of an operation via these pages. All information presented is for general reference and does not represent a professional opinion nor the policy of an author's employer. The internet is largely anonymous & unvetted; some names may be fictitious and some recommendations might be harmful.

If you are seeking a product or service related to metal finishing, please check these Directories: