repolishing

Repolishing is the process of polishing a surface a second time after an initial finish, with the aim of removing remaining defects, restoring luster, and achieving a higher quality or more uniform surface. It is employed when a first polish leaves scratches, swirl marks, haziness, or when wear or contamination has degraded the appearance or performance of the surface.

The repolishing workflow generally involves controlled material removal using progressively finer abrasives and polishing compounds, often on buffing wheels, suede wheels, or lapping tools. The goal is to reduce surface roughness (Ra) and increase gloss without altering critical dimensions or geometric accuracy. In optics, repolishing may also address subsurface damage or refractive index inconsistencies, while in metalworking it may restore reflective brightness on mirrors, jewelry, or machined parts.

Applications span metals (stainless steel, aluminum, brass), glass and optics (lenses, windows, mirrors), plastics, ceramics, and automotive finishes. It is commonly used to repair cosmetic defects, refresh faded finishes, or to prepare surfaces for subsequent coatings or protective layers.

Quality control in repolishing involves measuring surface roughness and gloss, along with visual inspection and, for precision parts, dimensional checks. Environmental and safety considerations include appropriate containment of dust and coolants, control of heat generation, and avoidance of over-polishing, which can remove excess material or alter tolerances.

See also: polishing, buffing, refinishing, scratch removal.