Satin Finishes

We offer the satin finish options listed below across all metal types. To speak with the Polished Metals team about your project, or if you have any questions regarding satin finishing or finish options, request a quote.

What Is a Satin Finish?

In metal polishing, a satin finish is any that results in a surface featuring a more grain-like, brushed, or grooved appearance. While satin finishes still reflect light and produce a gleaming effect, they do not achieve the same high shine as mirror finishes. Satin finishes may be desirable for a variety of reasons, including lower maintenance requirements. In addition, the duller, more matte appearance may be better suited for areas with a large amount of light to reduce glare.

Long Grain (Hairline)

A Long Grain finish, also commonly referred to as a “Hairline” finish is considered a #6 Satin that receives additional polishing in order to give the appearance that the grain runs continuously for the entire length of the product. This particular finish is often applied to a variety of metal types for use in elevators and escalators.

Non-Directional Satin

A Non-Directional Satin finish is considered a random orbital finish achieved by sanding with coated abrasive pads, with no specific direction of the grain. This particular finish is often applied to a variety of metal types for use in elevators and escalators.

#6 Satin Finish

Similar to #4 except an even finer and smoother appearance. After initial polishing, the final finish is achieved by polishing with a 240-320 grit abrasive belt. This particular finish is most often applied to 304 Stainless Steel for use across a wide range of industries.

Cross-Grain Satin

A cross-grain satin finish is achieved by sanding with coated abrasive pads, in a cross-hatch pattern. This particular finish is often applied to stainless steel for use in architectural projects.

#4 Satin Finish

The industry standard satin finish is similar to #3 except more refined looking and a smoother appearance. After initial polishing, the final finish is achieved by polishing with 120-180 grit abrasive belt. This particular finish is most often applied to 304 Stainless Steel for use across a wide range of industries.

#3 Satin Finish

A #3 finish is achieved by polishing the metal type on a wide belt machine using coated abrasive belts. Traditionally, this results in a coarser appearance as the final polishing is done with a 100-120 grit abrasive belt. This particular finish is most often applied to 304 Stainless Steel for use across a wide range of industries.

#2B/Mill Finish

A #2B finish, also commonly referred to as a “mill finish” describes the unpolished cold rolled material as it is obtained from the producing mill. It may sometimes exhibit a slight luster from the rolling process, but no reflectivity. This particular finish is most often used where stainless steel is specified but the finish (appearance) is unimportant.