Smooth microfinishing
For our optical features, mirrored surfaces and ultra flat surfaces is polishing or lapping an essential process step. Axxicon is a specialist company in polishing plano, spherical and cylindrical surfaces. Axxicon’s operators use high end equipment to achieve roughness values in the range of a few nanometers, but even better, our operators have that “fingertip feeling” to reach the best results!
At Axxicon polishing is used on a range of metal tooling parts. It is often used in manufacturing processes to improve the appearance and quality of finished products, such as optical features in microfluidics or mirrors.
In addition to improving aesthetics, polishing can also have functional benefits. For example, a polished surface can be easier to clean and maintain, as it is less likely to accumulate dirt and grime. Polishing can also improve the wear resistance and corrosion resistance of a material, making it more durable and long-lasting, which is one of Axxicon’s strengths.
Polishing is a microfinishing process that involves smoothing and refining the surface of a material to improve its appearance and/or functionality. It involves the use of an abrasive material, such as a polishing compound, to remove surface imperfections and create a smooth, shiny surface.
Interested in learning more about polishing? Read our whitepaper for detailed insights!
Lapping and polishing, while both methods are surface finishing processes, they serve distinct purposes and applications in industrial contexts.
Lapping employs a mixture of abrasive particles and a lapping plate to achieve high precision, flatness, and tight tolerances by correcting surface imperfections and ensuring uniformity, often resulting in a matte finish. This method is crucial for components like optical parts, sealing surfaces, high-precision bearings, and semiconductor wafers, where extreme flatness and accuracy are paramount.
In contrast, polishing uses finer abrasives and softer pads to enhance the aesthetic appearance of surfaces, producing a high-gloss, reflective finish. It focuses on smoothing the surface and removing minor defects, making it ideal for decorative metal parts, automotive components, optical lenses, and medical instruments. While lapping emphasizes precision and functional integrity, polishing prioritizes visual appeal and surface smoothness.
