Stainless steel surfaces are available in a variety of finishes, each providing distinct textures, appearances, and functional benefits.
Here’s a guide to the most common types of stainless steel finishes and their applications:
 

No. 1 (Hot Rolled, Annealed, and Pickled)

Description:

• A rough, dull, and non-reflective surface created by hot rolling, annealing, and pickling, ideal for durability in industrial applications.

Applications:

• Used in structural applications such as tanks, furnace parts, and welded assemblies where aesthetics are secondary.

No. 2B (Cold Rolled, Annealed, Pickled, and Skin Passed)

Description:

• A smooth, slightly reflective finish with a gray tone, balancing appearance and performance.

Applications:

• Commonly used in kitchen equipment, food processing, and general fabrication.

No. 4 (Brushed Finish)

Description:

• A satin-like, unidirectional finish offering a decorative yet functional surface.

Applications:

• Frequently used in kitchen appliances, architectural cladding, and areas needing a durable, aesthetic surface.

No. 8 (Mirror Finish)

Description:

• A highly reflective, mirror-like finish achieved through extensive polishing, offering a decorative and upscale look.

Applications:

• Often used in decorative applications like architectural features, mirrors, and ornamental designs.

BA (Bright Annealed)

Description:

• A bright, reflective finish obtained through annealing in an oxygen-free environment, creating a polished appearance without additional buffing.

Applications:

• Common in kitchen utensils, appliances, and architectural elements requiring a reflective yet durable surface.

Hairline Finish

Description:

• A linear, unidirectional finish characterized by fine lines that offer a sleek, matte appearance, slightly more reflective than satin.

Applications:

• Commonly used in high-traffic areas like elevator panels, architectural cladding, and automotive trim, where scratch resistance and aesthetics are important.

With options ranging from the refined, linear texture of hairline finishes to the high-reflective quality of mirror finishes, stainless steel offers diverse solutions for various industrial, architectural, and decorative needs. Selecting the appropriate finish depends on the project’s aesthetic and functional requirements, as each finish provides unique benefits for different applications.

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