What finishes can be applied to stainless steel?
A. Although there is a broad range of options, most commonly used stainless steel finishes are #2B, #4, #6 and #8. The #2B is a dull, unpolished and hence less expensive finish suitable for use in corrosive, industrial environments where appearance is of a lower priority. The #4 (also known as 32D) is a general purpose bright finish with visible grain which prevents reflection. A dull satin finish, less reflective than #4 is the #6. The #6 is used in applications where high luster is undesirable. The finish most suitable for decorative environments is the highly reflective, mirror finish #8 (also knows and 32). These common types of finishes can be additionally treated to achieve added finish options such as a Bead Blast Finish, a Non-Directional Finish or an Acid Etched finish. A Bead Blast Finish is achieved by bead blasting a #2B to a mat with a dull to glossy sheen depending on the size of the bead used. A Non-Directional Finish takes a #2B and sands is to a fine grit swirl (non-di
