Surface finishing

[1][2] In limited cases some of these techniques can be used to restore original dimensions to salvage or repair an item.

[3] Annealed and descaled after hot rolling, this finish is suitable for industrial applications requiring heat resistance and corrosion resistance, where smoothness of finish is unimportant, such as chemical tanks, aircraft heaters, steam turbine shrouds and piping.

An example would be grinding gates off of castings, deburring or removing excess weld material.

A #4 architectural finish is characterized by fine polishing grit lines that are uniform and directional in appearance.

[6] One takes great care to remove any surface defects in the metal, like pits, that could allow bacteria to grow.

A #7 finish is produced by polishing with a 280–320 grit belt or wheel and sisal buffing with a cut and color compound.

A polished PVD finish can achieve a similar appearance due to the smooth, reflective nature of the coating process.