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POLISHING
EXPERT POLISHING SERVICES
Accurate polishing creates a uniform surface finish that will optimize part performance. Partner with Bales for mold polishing services that match your precise specifications. We’ll help you select the best finish for common and complex manufacturing issues:
Superior Surface Finish: Hand polishing delivers refined, mirror-like finishes not possible by machine.- Precision in Complex Areas: Our decades of experience provide custom polishing to intricate and hard-to-reach mold areas.
- Extended Mold Life: By reducing the risk of damage from automated tools, we preserve mold integrity and longevity.
- Customization and Control: Our approach delivers greater control over polishing intensity, perfect for selective surface treatments.
Diamond Finishes
Diamond polishing creates the finest finish for highly visible or lens-quality parts. The SPI* A-2 is the most widely used diamond finish, with excellent release and appearance. The SPI A-3 is ideal for release where a high-gloss appearance isn't required. All diamond finishes work well with chrome and nickel coatings.
*SPI® is a registered trademark of Society of the Plastics Industry (PLASTICS)
Paper Finishes
Paper finishes are the second most-refined option after diamond polishing. They produce a slightly reflective or glossy shine and a very good release. Choose paper finishes for products that don’t require a decorative or visual effect.
Stone Finishes
Stone finishes are the most economical polishing option. They’re a good choice for strictly functional molded parts where aesthetics don’t matter. Stone finishes provide a good release and deliver very little gloss to the plastic part. They’re also the first step in the process of diamond and paper polishing.
Blasting
At Bales, we can control blasting velocity, pressure, and location. That means you can count on us to achieve a uniform surface finish on your unique mold.
- Camouflage weld areas.
- Clean and prep parts for processing.
- Enhance surfaces to achieve your desired finish.
SURFACE FINISH CROSS REFERENCE CHART
No matter your finishing challenge, Bales will find the best solution for your mold, tool, or die while meeting SPE-SPI Standards.
TYPES OF FINISHES | FINISH REFERENCE NUMBERS | LEVEL | ROUGHNESS COMPARISON |
DIAMOND | #3 Diamond Buff | A1 | 0-1 |
#6 Diamond Buff | A2 | 1-2 | |
#15 Diamond Buff | A3 | 2-3 | |
PAPER | 600 Grit | B1 | 2-3 |
400 Grit | B2 | 4-5 | |
320 Grit | B3 | 9-10 | |
STONE | 600 Stone | C1 | 10-12 |
400 Stone | C2 | 25-28 | |
320 Stone | C3 | 38-42 | |
DRY BLASTED | #11 Glass Bead | D1 | 10-12 |
240 Aluminum Oxide Blast | D2 | 26-32 | |
#24 Aluminum Oxide Blast | D3 | 190-230 |
