Besides the fact that every metal has its own unique and beautiful color, there are many reasons to polish and sand materials. Specifically, polishing metal acts as a sealant. Therefore, it is more resistant to oxidation or chemical corrosion. In addition, it makes the material easier to clean and increases wear resistance. If you need your piece to resist friction, polishing metal will do the trick.
What tools do you need to polish metal?
Power tools are amazing when it comes to polishing. Tools like drills, Dremel, rotary buffers, rotary sanders, etc. will make your life a lot easier. All of these tools come with sandpaper and polishing attachments/wheels and are generally worth the investment.
That being said, power tools are not necessary. Archaeological evidence shows that humans have been polishing metal since we figured out how to work with metal about 5,000 years ago. Power tools have only become common tools for metal polishing in the past hundred years. Sandpaper, scouring pads, fine steel wool, and polishing pads can all be used for polishing. However, this will be slower than using power tools.
Metal polish is the last “tool” you need. Technically, polish is not necessary either. Soapy water, WD-40, and even toothpaste can be used to polish metal, but actual polish works much better and faster.
There are many different methods and tools that can be used to polish metal to a mirror finish. It is very similar from metal to metal,
Here is a list of common tools:
Sandpaper in multiple grades, from 220 grit to 5000 grit
Finishing pads
Lubricants, polishes, and sealants
Blue shop towels
Drill and pad to hang the sandpaper polishing attachment on