There are many polishing products available in the market nowadays that can return the sparkle and shine to your metal products which may have faded, stained or become dull with time. Sometimes with metals like copper and brass, it becomes difficult to get back that mirror finish. In this article, we provide you with three easy ways to polish your metal and ensure it shines as good as new.
BY Hand One of the ways in which metal can be polished is, quite simply, by hand. To do so, first the metal must be cleaned with some soap. Ideally, a good non-abrasive liquid dish soap should do the trick. Then, rinse it well. These steps ensure that all the grime and dust on the metal has been removed before the actual polishing is done. After washing and rinsing the metal, dry it off with a towel.
Once you’ve made sure that it’s completely dry, use a cloth or a sponge, and cover the surface of the metal with the polish compound. Since polish can give off very strong fumes, it is best to execute this step in a well-ventilated area or use protective gear.
The polish should be left on for about a minute before wiping it off with a damp microfiber cloth. For heavily tarnished objects, you can wait longer – about three to five minutes. Finally, rinse the metal with warm water and dry it off completely.
Using a buffing wheel
The first step remains the same as the first step of polishing by hand.
The polishing compound is applied on the surface of the buffing wheel. Not much compound is needed for the wheel to work.
The metal piece is to be held up against the buffing wheel as it turns at a speed of 8000 rates per minute. Not much pressure needs to be applied. Compound can be reapplied to the wheel as necessary.
A coat of metal wax or clear lacquer can be applied to the metal to seal it. This can be done with the buffing wheel as well.
Sandpaper Using an aluminum oxide or silicon carbide sandpaper, metal can be polished effectively. Ideally, it is best to start with 600-grit sandpaper and then then move on and up to finer sandpaper – up to 2500-grit. Water should be used to cool the surface of the metal down. Of course, even if you do take precautions, it is unlikely that tarnish will not build up again on the metal. But with the above methods, bringing back the shine on the metal in your life should never be a wearisome chore again!
For an inquiries or to submit an RFQ, please contact our Inside Sales Team at Sales@diamondbritemetals.com.
Feel free to visit our website at www.diamondbritemetals.com.