How to Buff & Polish Metal
Buffing refers to a particular way of polishing metals, in which a rotary tool evens out the surface of the metal to create a shiny effect. Buffing makes the metal surface uniform, minimizing cosmetic imperfections and giving a mirror finish. The rotary tool spins a wheel at a high rate, and the metal is buffed as the fast-spinning wheel is held against its surface. Buffing also makes use of chemicals known as buffing compounds. Initially a solid bar, the compound is applied to the metal as it melts from the frictional heat of the spinning wheel. There are many different types of wheels and compounds designed for different types of metals. Before you begin, make sure you have the right wheel and compound for the particular metal type.
Instructions
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Clean the metal surface thoroughly. Use a soft cloth to remove dust and grime from the part. Buffing a part that has not been cleaned beforehand may permanently damage the surface. If you use a metal polish to get rid of grime, dry the surface with a cloth before proceeding.
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Attach a wheel guard to the buffer motor, and wear safety glasses. These are precautionary measures, and will protect you from flying metal pieces and debris. Stand on a steady cushion or a comfortable surface as you work. This will minimize strain on your legs and back.
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Stand next to the machine so that the rotation of the wheel is down and away from your body. If the wheel spins toward you, the machine could throw metal parts at your body.
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Start the machine and apply a buffing compound. As the wheel spins, hold the bar of compound to the edge of the spinning wheel for a few seconds. This will cause the compound to melt and coat the wheel with a fine layer. Buffing compound should be applied often and in small quantities, as opposed to large amounts applied periodically.
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Pick up the metal part and bring it close to the spinning wheel. Hold the part so that the contact point---the area where the part touches the wheel---is approximately 30 degrees below the wheel's center; this is an ideal contact point if you are not familiar with the pulling action of different wheels.
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Touch the part to the wheel, maintaining the angle. As the buffing wheel polishes the surface, move the part up and down slowly. Reapply the compound a little at a time every minute or so, holding the part under the wheel to catch excess compound as it drips off the wheel.
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Rake the wheels periodically during buffing. Excess compound can build up on the edges of the wheel, especially if the machine is left idle for a period. This build up may create deep scratches on the surface of the metal, and should be removed from the wheel by raking. Use a clean long-handled wire brush to remove excess compound from the wheel.
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Continue buffing the part until the surface is polished and gives a shiny effect. Remember to periodically reapply the buffing compound and rake excess build up. When you are done, rake and clean the wheel thoroughly for future use.
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Tips & Warnings
Do not apply different compounds to the same wheel. Each wheel should only be used with one type of compound.
References
- Photo Credit metal image by Ruta Saulyte from Fotolia.com
