- 8 September 2024
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Aluminum is a very versatile metal and has a wide range of applications. Its surface can be smooth and shiny or but also satin-finished.
Aluminum satinizing is a process that aims to produce a uniform, semi-gloss or opaque surface on surfaces or pieces of aluminum, which can then be further processed. It is a finishing process that is carried out using special abrasive belts and rotary brushes designed to refine metals, and must be carried out on high-precision, high-quality machines to achieve optimum results.
The process of aluminum satin finishing is used for aesthetic or purely functional reasons, but it is also used to hide surface defects, such as scratches or various types of marks, and to achieve a perfectly uniform aluminum surface finish. Depending on the desired aesthetic effect and the type of abrasive belt used, it is possible to achieve different shades of satin finish on aluminum.
The process of satin finishing of aluminum is paradoxically very simple and can be carried out using special satin finishing machines or having only an aluminum satin finishing kit. However, it is important to follow a few simple rules to make sure that the process is carried out correctly and that the aluminum parts are protected from damage. First, the aluminum surface should be cleaned of all traces of dirt and debris.
After cleaning the surface, use the aluminum satin set and evenly apply a thin layer of abrasive paste to the surface. It is the layer of abrasive paste that will help remove any imperfections. Once the abrasive paste has been applied, use a satinizing machine to properly and accurately satinize the aluminum, without damaging the surface. Once the aluminum has been treated, it is ready to undergo further processing or further finishing.
Of course, the type of effect obtained will depend on the brushes and abrasive belt used: by using belts of different grits, you can achieve a satin finish on the surface with different degrees of roughness.
Satinizing is one of the polishing technologies in which the surface gets a pleasant matte sheen. On closer inspection, it shows a pattern of thin parallel lines, resembling the surface of a satin fabric. The name itself is derived from this characteristic sheen.
Most often this technique is applied, to stainless steel and just aluminum. The only material that does not accept satin finish and, in principle, does not need it, is cast iron. In any other case, the higher the hardness of the workpiece, the more effort you will have to put into satin finishing.
The question arises: why go for a satin coating when aluminum can be polished and achieve a mirror-like effect rather than a matte one? Indeed, after polishing, aluminum looks more impressive, and its surface even gains additional protection against corrosion. However, this process has its drawbacks. Aluminum becomes particularly susceptible to all kinds of mechanical damage, even simple scratches. At the same time, you must constantly ensure that the surface of the aluminum remains shiny. If you choose to satin-finish aluminum, you will hide imperfections, and the material itself will acquire an elegant, "expensive" look. The satin effect looks great on:
- Decorative articles.
- Tableware and cutlery.
- Furniture.
- Bathroom fittings.
- When it comes to decorative grilles, partitions, fences, balustrades, etc.
Therefore, for a more "permanent" effect, it is still recommended to choose a satin finish. This procedure is also advisable if you want to save money: the cost of satin metal is lower than polished.
