Nonabrasive media with accelerated chemistry

Abstract

The invention is an improvement in the metal finishing processes disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,818,333. The improvement arises in the use of nonabrasive media, such as stainless steel or plastic, in combination with chemicals that are reactive to the metal surface processed. The invention also includes metal articles finished using this process.

What is claimed is:  
     
         1 . A method for finishing a metal article, comprising the steps of: 
 a) placing said article in a vibratory finishing bowl and/or the like, in combination with: 
 i. a chemical solution capable of reacting with the surface of said metal article to convert it to a softer form, and  
 ii. a non-abrasive media  
   b) agitating said article, media, and solution in said finishing bowl for a time sufficient to impart on said article a surface that is superfinished, isotropic, and of specular brightness.    
     
     
         2 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein said non-abrasive media are made from a material that includes a plastic.  
     
     
         3 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein said non-abrasive media are made from a material that includes alumina bonded with an unsaturated polyester resin.  
     
     
         4 . The method of claims  1 , wherein said non-abrasive media are made from a material that includes a metal.  
     
     
         5 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein said non-abrasive media are made from a material that includes stainless steel.  
     
     
         6 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein said non-abrasive media are made from a material that includes 302 grade stainless steel.  
     
     
         7 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the surface finish is superior to that produced by non-abrasive ceramic media or other abrasive media.  
     
     
         8 . An article that is finished using the process of any of claims  1 - 6 .