How do I achieve a #4 finish on stainless steel?

How do I achieve a #4 finish on stainless steel?

Written by: Erin Billeb

                                                      

Step 1- Leveling the Weld                                       

Recommended starting points:

3M Cubitron II Fibre Disc 987C (Grade 60+; 7-inch diameter)

• Made with 3M precision- shaped ceramic grain for ultra-fast cut and exceptional life
• Includes a grinding aid for cooler running temperatures

                                                    

 or 3M Fibre Disc 785C (Grade 60+; 7-inch diameter)

• Contains 3M Ceramic Aluminum Oxide Blend abrasive grain
• An excellent starting point for stainless steel and high nickel alloys
• Includes a grinding aid for cooler running temperatures

Alternative products: 3M Flap Disc 947D/747D (grade 60; 7” diameter); 3M Cubitron II Roloc Durable Edge Disc 984F (grade 60+); 3M Roloc Disc 777F (grade 60)

Work hint: Use the finest grade of abrasive that gets the job done; finer grade lines are easier to remove. Align the grind line scratches with the grain line direction of the original stock.  Perpendicular scratches are more difficult to blend.  Use a 7” dia. black ribbed faceplate to level the weld quickly and leave fine grind lines.

Step 2- Leveling the Grain

Use these products to generate a directional scratch to prepare stainless steel for final finishing:

                                                       

3M Belt 777F (Grade P120)   

• Contains 3M Ceramic Aluminum Oxide blend abrasive grain with polyester cloth backing
• Contains a grinding aid which enhances performance on stainless steel and other exotic alloys.

Alternative products: 3M Belt 747D (Grade P120); 3M Flap Wheels 747D (Grade 80; 3” x 1”x ¼”)

Work hint: Attempt to stay as close as possible to the weld area to minimize final blending.  Be careful when selecting the abrasive grade, as severe grind lines will result in more conditioning time and reduced productivity. 

 

Step 3- Final Finishing

Recommended Starting Point for #4 Stainless Steel Finish:

                                                      

Scotch-Brite Surface Conditioning Belt (A Medium)    

• Constructed with a non-woven nylon material
• Designed for cleaning, finishing, and light deburring.

Alternative products: 3M Scotch-Brite Surface Conditioning Belt (S Medium); Scotch- Brite Multi-Finishing Wheel (2S Medium)

Work hint: For best finish, avoid applying excessive pressure and high rates of speed.  This will extend the life of the abrasive and most often give you your best finish. 

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