Technical Un-polishing Staineless Steel?

I have strip of polished stainless (formerly part of a prison mirror blank) about 2' x 28" that I need to bring down to a satin finish. I don't have a lot of scrap to experiment on, so I'd appreciate ideas on how to do this. Directional sanding, random orbit sanding, wet-dry paper,grit size,etc. Opinions appreciated.

 

Scotch Brite either red or green

 

Was gonna say. Experiment, find your pref. Grade, and go. Drag all the way across.
I've used a guide board, to help align passes.

 

I was going to say scotch brite also but what about some 1500 grit on a d.a.?

 

Blasting should give you a uniform finish.

Chris

 

I’d go with red Scotchbrite pads. Maybe green, but start with red.


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That’ll be too shiny if he’s looking for “satin”.


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If I remember correctly when the stainless exterior on the Kodak theater in downtown LA was causing extreme sun reflection issues the cure was to Scotch Brite the entire building to cut down on the sun glare.

 

@5window ......they let you bring home souvenirs?? ............

 

Have it vapour blasted


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We use red and grey Scotchbrite at work, I don,t know what the grits are, but the grey is finer, and would be best for a matte finish, using a circular motion. Sand blasting or glass beading one side of a piece of sheet metal will put a curve in it.

 

Another thought here, how about some muratic acid wiped from a soft cloth. That might etch the shininess off.

 

That will turn it white and most likely streaky, scotchbrite is the best bet


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I agree with the scotchbrite but will offer another idea for you to consider. I needed to match a "brushed" finish on stainless steel projects at my fabrication business on a couple occasions. One time I used a belt sander with about an 80 or 120 grit belt and was pleased with the results. If a finer finish is desired you might also try the wheels that are used in a die grinder. They have alternating layers of scotchbrite material and sandpaper. It'll take a even, gently touch to not end up with "lines" but they can be touched up with scotchbrite pads. The wheels will just get you there quicker if you have a lot of area to do.

Good luck.

Lynn

 

There used to be a guy at Carlisle who had a whole pile of these sheets and sold them for about $10. I used a polished one on my A firewall. Came out pretty good.

 

How about rubbing in some valve grinding compound? Dollop a glob of it on and use your hand to scuff it all around.

 

Better yet, put a Roloc on a die grinder and do some engine turning.


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