Steel finishing

Steel is one of the most common construction materials in the world. Now for construction, there is no need to apply a polished finish or create a reflective surface. As long as the burrs are removed during steel deburring. But what about creating a steel surface finish? The corrosion resistance of steel is very low. Which is why it often gets a surface treatment. Discover the role of the Timesavers machine in steel finishing processes.

Reasons for steel finishing

There are several key reasons to finish steel. By grinding the surface, you can remove the imperfections. It significantly improves the component’s appearance, which is beneficial for decorative purposes. Moreover, grinding and finishing steel ensures a clean surface for applying coatings, such as paint, powder coating or plating. A better adhesion and long-lasting coating guaranteed! The coating will also improve the steel’s resistance to corrosion and wear.

The right machine for finishing steel

Steel parts and sheets can be finished by any Timesavers machine. The wide range of grinding machines starts with an entry level model for small volume production. It extends to large rotary brush machines. Their applications include deburring, rounding and finishing of numerous steel parts simultaneously. An ultimate solution for sheet metal fabrication.

If it comes to grinding steel sheets, plates or coils, a heavier machine is required. The Timesavers finishing machines are built to perform day-in, day-out and year-in, year-out. For finishing steel it is important to choose a dry working machine, like the 62 or 72 series. Otherwise your steel parts and sheets will rust.

Tooling for finishing steel

The tools for finishing steel include abrasive belts and finishing brushes. Abrasive belts come in various grit sizes and types of minerals. The grit size of the belt determines the smoothness of the steel surface. Smaller grit sizes result in a smoother finish. The type of mineral used in the belt affects its durability and effectiveness.

In addition to belts, finishing brushes are also used. Brushes can help achieve specific surface finishes that belts alone cannot. Think about textures and fine finishes. A common type of brush used for this purpose is the Scotch-Brite brush. Using both belts and brushes can ensure a high-quality finish on the steel.

Different combinations of grit sizes, minerals, and tools allow for a wide range of finishes. This versatility is important for meeting various industrial and aesthetic requirements. By carefully selecting the right tools, you can achieve the desired finish.

Advice: Think about the finish you want to achieve. This will help you decide which tooling to use.

Dust extraction

Each grinding process involves a dust extractor. That is because exposure to metal dust is bad for your health. It can also be flammable during machining operations. Always equip your grinding machine with a dust extractor. Preferably a wet working one. In collaboration with Absaugwerk GmbH, Timesavers offers reliable dust extraction units. Because a safe and clean working environment is crucial.

Advice: Combine the Timesavers machine with a wet separator from Absaugwerk.

Types of metal finishes for steel

Cold rolling steel creates a smoother surface than hot rolling. This is why the starting point of cold rolled steel is a finish no. 2 and for hot rolled no. 1. These basic finishes are not enough when a product needs a coating. Just like working with any other material you start with roughing up the surface. A rough surface has more profile than a smooth surface, so it promotes adhesion.

The Timesavers finishing machines are the perfect solution to achieve the desired surface finish and roughness. Whether it is for finishing steel, stainless steel, aluminium, copper or any other metal. Discover the broad range of versatile, efficient machinery for high quality products.