Stainless steel is not only popular for its corrosion resistance and high strength, but its surface treatment process also directly affects its appearance, touch and applicable scenarios. The three common processes of polishing, brushing and sandblasting have their own characteristics. This article will analyze their best processing methods, visual effects, advantages and disadvantages and typical uses in detail to help you choose accurately.
1. Mirror polishing (Polished)
1. Processing method
Through mechanical or electrolytic polishing, grinding wheels, polishing pastes, etc. are used for step-by-step polishing to finally form a smooth mirror-like surface.
2. Features
Appearance: Highly reflective, can clearly reflect human figures, and has a strong sense of luxury.
Touch: Extremely smooth, fingerprints are easy to remain (frequent cleaning is required).
Stain resistance: The surface is dense, but oil stains and scale are more conspicuous.
3. Applicable scenarios
High-end decoration (hotel lobby, elevator door)
Medical equipment (surgical tools, sterile equipment)
Kitchenware (high-end cookware, coffee machine)
II. Brushed
1. Processing method
Use a sanding belt or nylon wheel to rub the surface in one direction to form a uniform straight line or ring texture.
2. Features
Appearance: matte texture, with delicate metal hairline texture, low-key and modern.
Touch: slightly frictional, more anti-fingerprint than polished surface.
Scratch resistance: The texture can cover small scratches and is suitable for high-frequency use areas.
3. Applicable scenarios
Household appliances (refrigerator panels, range hoods)
Architectural decoration (door and window frames, handrails)
Electronic products (mobile phone middle frame, notebook shell)
III. Sandblasted
1. Processing method
High-speed spraying of abrasives such as quartz sand and glass beads to form a uniform frosted granular feel on the surface.
2. Features
Appearance: matte, obvious graininess, industrial or minimalist style.
Touch: rough and uniform, good anti-slip.
Corrosion resistance: sandblasting may damage the passivation film, and subsequent passivation treatment is required.
3. Applicable scenarios
Industrial equipment (instrument housing, valve)
Outdoor facilities (anti-slip stairs, public sculptures)
Hide welding marks (beautification of weld area)
IV. How to choose?
1. For a luxurious feel → choose mirror polishing (but accept frequent maintenance).
2. To balance beauty and practicality → choose brushed (anti-fingerprint + scratch resistance).
3. To prevent slip/hide defects → choose sandblasting (suitable for industry or outdoor).
V. Advanced knowledge
Composite process: sandblasting first and then brushing to create a unique texture.
Colored stainless steel: PVD coating is used to achieve rose gold, black titanium and other colors on the basis of polishing/brushing.
Anti-fingerprint treatment: Nano coating is applied on the brushed surface to further enhance the anti-fouling property.
By mastering these process differences, your stainless steel project will not only meet functional requirements, but also become a visual highlight!
