Stainless steel has become popular in modern construction, automotive, transportation, medical, energy, food industry and domestic use due to its flexibility, strength, corrosion resistance, low maintenance and aesthetic appearance.

With its many uses, choosing the right stainless steel finish for your application is even more important; however, how to choose the right finish for different application scenarios, especially if you don't know where to start. But don't worry! We have the right guide for you!

In this guide we will discuss some commonly used finishes and select finishes.

Types of stainless steel finishes that mainly falls under these three categories:

No.1 Finish

This finish is heated before hot rolling which is also called "roughing finish" for minimal finishing is required. This combination of annealing and hot rolling results in a dark, variable appearance called scale, which is removed with chemicals to create superior corrosion resistance. The No. 1 finish can be used on furnace components, air heaters, gas turbines, baffles, annealing boxes and the like.

No.2B Matte Finish

This stainless steel finish resembles a cloudy day mirror in an even, dull silver grey. It is obtained by passing the sheet through the final light roller table of polishing rollers. This is a general cold rolling finish, or a preliminary step of polishing that can be used directly. 2B finish does not have any protective coating and so it's not often used for aesthetics, but it's a very good deal.

No.3 Brushed Finish

This is a 120 grit option for unidirectional abrasives. There will be a peel-off protective layer on one side, and finer polishing techniques require special coils/rollers. The result is a linear grain pattern with a medium reflective finish and an average roughness (Ra) of 40 or less. Commonly used in food production equipment and scientific instruments. It usually has a surface roughness as it is a moderately reflective finish. It is commonly used in kitchen equipment as well as scientific instruments.

No.4 Brushed Finish

Unlike No. 3, its abrasive is tapered. It can end up with a granularity of 150-320, with a greater reflection on higher granularity. Ra will be 25 micro inches or less and the surface will be highly reflective. In addition to being used in kitchen appliances, this stainless steel finish is used in places like hospital equipment and surfaces, water dispensers and tank trailers.

No.7 Finish

It is  mirror-like appearance finish with high reflectivity. It requires polishing a No. 4 finish with a 320+ grit and extensive buffing. The polishing lines can be easily seen in wall panels and decorations.

If you have any questions about stainless steel finishes, Contact galvanized steel coil suppliers and our team. We are happy to help you with any queries you have.