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


-----

Dual sourced 240S (polished) panels have differing look and feel

I work in QA for a manufacturer and we have a 304 stainless steel panel dual sourced. The problem is we spec a 240S finish and the panels can have a different look and feel. A visual difference I can live with but I need this panel to be polished smooth enough for cleaning cloths not to break apart. We had a source providing what is said to be 240 grain with a Silicon Dull polish (240S). These panels are smooth to touch. How do I measure and compare the Ra when the surface has been polished? I understand a meter can tell the difference between 180 and 240 grain but how do I measure these when polished?
Is the answer to have reference samples from the supplying mills and simply compare?

James Macfarlane
QA Engineer in laboratory equipment manufacturer. - Irvine, Ayrshire, Scotland
March 8, 2011

---

If your panels are as larger or larger than a sheet of plywood then I think you need to look into special equipment. Anything under 4 feet in size you might be able to achieve the desired finish using a wide belt finishing machine.

AF Kenton
retired business owner - Hatboro, Pennsylvania
March 29, 2011