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Difference Between Brushed and Polished Stainless Steel

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Chromium and a few nickel alloys make up the metal known as stainless steel. Flatware, culinary utensils, equipment, vehicle components, certain jewelry, and other objects are frequently discovered to contain them.
It is a frequently used material due to its strength and adaptability. While “brushed steel” refers to a particular finishing technique, the word “stainless steel” relates to the kind of alloy that is utilized in steel. An item made of stainless steel might have a brushed steel finish because brushing occurs after the steel alloys or components have been mixed.

Brushed Stainless Steel

Metal that has been brushed has a dull finish and is produced by friction. A medium non-woven abrasive belt or pad is used to soften the metal after it has been polished with a fine bristle brush on a belt or wheel that rotates continuously in one direction. The steel has a dull, matte gloss as a result. The steel keeps part of its shine and develops extremely fine lines in the brushing direction, even if it loses its ability to reflect light. For ornamental things, it is a unique appearance that is frequently selected.

As with a sander or grinder, friction is introduced to the steel during the finishing process of brushing. This is different from other finishing techniques like electroplating or using a protective coating to leave the steel bright. It is referred to as brushed stainless steel when a stainless-steel object is subjected to a brushed finish. When stainless steel is given a brushed surface, it has a matte, unreflective appearance and is dull to the touch.

Uses of Brushed Stainless Steel

Decorative objects like vases, nozzles for specialty sinks, and other items are frequently made of brushed steel. The front of a wide range of appliances, including refrigerators, coffee machines, can openers, dishwashers, stoves, microwave ovens, and others, also use this material. Because of its durability and capacity to remove fingerprints, it is highly prized. Brushed steel has a warmer tone than raw steel, which helps to conceal any slight flaws that develop with the regular usage of an item. Other home decor and cabinet hardware are made from brushed steel.
The material of choice for usage in public spaces is brushed stainless steel. This results from its corrosion resistance. Additionally, it is quite ornamental and frequently utilized to give interiors a manly feel.

Polished Stainless Steel

Polished stainless steel is a form of finished stainless steel with a bright look. Compared to a surface that has been rough or poorly polished, this form of stainless-steel resists corrosion better. It’s crucial to employ surfaces that have been roughed up in hostile situations, such as the nuclear or offshore sectors. But a polished, smooth stainless-steel surface is less prone to collect deposits, which means it may harm the steel less.

Polishing can be done to achieve a brighter, mirror-polished surface, a satin or grained polished finish, or both. Additionally, polishing may enhance uniformity and look, which can aid in fabrication and repair following welding as well as in covering up tiny faults.

Uses of Polished Stainless Steel

A very versatile material is stainless steel. It is preferred in situations when both corrosion resistance and steel characteristics are necessary.
Its initial application was in cutlery, but because of its ability to resist corrosion. It then made its way to the chemical sector. Nowadays, stainless steel is largely ubiquitous.
Examples of applications include the creation of tiny watch components and large panels with a specific surface treatment that may also cover entire structures at the same time.

Several sectors that heavily utilize stainless steel include:

  • Catering
  • Medicines and chemicals
  • Offshore and ship construction Automotive industry
  • Devices for the home
  • Industry and energy
  • Creating medical equipment
  • Construction and architecture

Difference Between Brushed and Polished Stainless Steel

Basis of comparison

Brushed stainless steel

Polished stainless steel

What they are A form of metal that is given a dull finish by friction. A form of finished stainless steel with a bright look.
Applications Applicable in difficult situations Applicable in less difficult situations
Susceptible to corrosion High Low
Luster Low High
Surface Rough Smooth
Cleaning Difficult Easy

Last Updated : 19 Feb, 2023
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