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Dimension Information and Different Types of Metal Finishes Web-exclusive tips on magazine-rack dimensions and types of metal finishes. From "Freeform Furniture" episode DFFF-111

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Amy describes the different finishes for metal pieces.

Different Types of Metal Finishes

The matte finish on the magazine rack produces a dull, non-shiny surface on the metal. Also called reverse electroplating, electro polishing is an electrochemical process which polishes a metal surface by removing microscopic amounts of material from the work piece. Electro polishing is one way to dull the surface of the metal to achieve a matte finish. A random orbital sander can be used to achieve this type of finish.

Galvanization, or coating iron with zinc to protect it from rusting, is one of the most popular finishes for metal. Galvanization offers a protective coating from the elements.

Metal with a patina has a warm, weather look. Metals can achieve a patina slowly, through age, exposure to weather, or years of polishing.

• To achieve a reflective, shiny finish on stainless steel use the finest grit rubbing compound. When polishing, make sure to remove any flash or seam lines with a fine file. When done, give the metal a warm water and soapy bath and let it dry overnight.

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• After it has dried, polish with extra fine steel wool. Steel wool can be purchased at any drug or grocery store. Just one pad is enough for several projects. Tearing off a small piece makes it easier to use. Use just enough to cover one of your fingers. Rub in different directions to avoid scratches. Keep polishing until you get a nice shine--about one minute for each area. Be careful not to over polish.

• The next step is to buff the metal with a soft cloth. An old t-shirt works well. At this stage, you should notice light reflecting off the metal.

• Another way to achieve a reflective, shiny finish is to sand the surface with a wet/dry silicon carbide sandpaper. Keep in mind that it is easier to remove metal than it is to add it, so be careful in the sanding process. Buff with a polishing compound formulated for stainless or gold. Use a loose buff in the final stage to avoid swirl marks on the surface. A coating will help protect the polish from the scratches, but it may also detract from its luster.

• Anytime you polish a material it becomes more resistant to corrosion. Base steel does not polish to high reflectivity because it doesn't have the proper surface. Iron, the base metal, is naturally a dull grey color. Furthermore, steel will oxidize and rust.

• Brushing metal can be done many different ways. You can use sanding discs, scotch brite pads, sandpaper, etc. Bead blasted metal is sometimes referred to as brushed metal. You can protect the metal with a clear finish like a clear UV resistant urethane. If the finish doesn't have additives for UV resistance, it will yellow with age.

• If painting metal, spray it first with flat coat, then brush semi-gloss onto the metal. Be sure to prime the areas to be painted. Primer is a preparatory coating put on materials before painting. Priming ensures better adhesion of paint to the surface, increases paint durability, and provides additional protection for the material being painted. Paint adheres better to galvanized metal that has first been wiped with vinegar.

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RESOURCES :

Delta Woodworking Power Tools
Website: www.deltawoodworking.com

Festool
Website: www.festoolusa.com

Gladiator Garageworks by Whirlpool
Website: www.gladiatorgw.com

Stanley Tools Product Group
Website: www.stanleytools.com

Lie-Nielsen Toolworks, Inc.
Website: www.lie-nielsen.com

WMH Tool Group
Website: www.wmhtoolgroup.com

Power Tools (Porter Cable)
Porter Cable Power Tools
Website: www.portercable.com

Hand Tools
Garrett Wade Co., Inc.
Website: www.garrettwade.com

The Peck Tool Company
Website: www.pecktool.com

Biesemeyer
Website: www.biesemeyer.com

Saw Blades
Forrest Manufacturing Company
Website: www.vacupress.com

Jogensen Adjustable Clamp Company
Website: www.adjustableclamp.com

Adhesives, Abrasives and Safety Equipment
The 3M Company
Website: www.3m.com

Klein Tools
Website: www.kleintools.com

Ulmia GmbH
Website: www.ulmia.de

Woodcraft
Website: www.woodcraft.com

Shop Equipment
Eagle Manufacturing Company
Website: www.eagle-mfg.com