Four Ultimate Polishing Techniques and Guide for Acrylic

Polishing acrylic is an essential step in the production of acrylic products. A properly polished acrylic surface achieves optimal clarity and light transmission. Depending on the type of workpiece and finish required, there are four common polishing techniques available:

• Gas (Steam) Polishing: Steam polishing uses solvent vapor to impact the acrylic surface. This method is excellent for treating the interior surfaces of parts, but it can create slightly translucent effects. Typically, when high standards of part cleanliness and cutting tolerances are achieved, steam polishing combined with Jinan Unique CNC acrylic diamond polishing machines produces superior results.
• Flame Polishing: Flame polishing uses electrochemical technology to extract hydrogen and oxygen from water in an energy-efficient and environmentally friendly process. This method is also called a water-hydrogen flame machine or oxyhydrogen flame machine, specifically used for polishing acrylic sheets and components. Flame polishing is highly effective for achieving a smooth, transparent edge finish.
• Buffing Wheel Polishing: Buffing wheels provide stable and efficient polishing. Common types include cotton wheels, hemp wheels, and wind wheels. This technique is widely used due to its durability and ability to produce uniform surface finishes on flat and simple curved surfaces.
• Acrylic Diamond Polishing Machines: These machines are divided into vertical and horizontal types. Vertical diamond polishers can handle both flat and angled surfaces, while horizontal machines can also process flat and sloped faces. Acrylic diamond polishing machines are ideal for high-end acrylic and crystal products, offering precision polishing with high efficiency and superior surface quality. They are indispensable equipment for any serious acrylic product manufacturer.

Perfect Acrylic Blocks and Sheets after polishing

Each polishing method has its advantages and ideal applications. In many professional workshops, a combination of steam polishing for initial surface treatment and diamond polishing for the final finish provides the best results in both clarity and production efficiency.