What Polishing does after CNC machining
Polishing is a CNC finishing step on AIHFABS. It runs after milling or turning so the blank leaves closer to a usable part — not only a machine finish. Use this page to decide whether Polishing matches color, wear, or assembly needs before you upload a file.
Polishing a CNC part cuts the remaining tool marks — belt, wheel, or chemical — down to a specified Ra or a mirror. Aluminum and stainless take it well after milling or turning. Call it when the face has to look like a product, not a machine finish.
Finishing is quoted with the machine work. Select Polishing in checkout, review price and lead time, and keep machining plus post-processing on one order instead of sending a raw blank to a second shop.
Why teams specify Polishing on CNC parts
Appearance
Polishing can hide cutter marks, even out color, or leave a uniform skin on housings, brackets, and review samples.
Performance
Depending on the process, Polishing may improve wear, corrosion resistance, or grip so the machined part survives handling and end use.
Ready-to-assemble blanks
When Polishing sits on the same traveler as milling or turning, the part arrives closer to install-ready — color, coat, or threads already on it.
How to order this CNC finish
Ordering Polishing uses the same upload as a standard CNC quote. You do not need a separate finishing RFQ for catalog options.
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Upload the CAD file
Use STEP, STP, or another supported format. The quoter reads the stock so finishing can be priced against the actual blank.
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Choose CNC process, material, and Polishing
Pick milling, turning, or another CNC route, then add Polishing and any other finishing the part needs.
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Compare price, lead time, and checkout
Review options, confirm quantity, and place the order. Machining and finishing stay on one timeline and one invoice.
Compatible stock and design notes
Polishing is typically applied to metals — and some plastics — after CNC machining. Compatibility depends on alloy, wall thickness, and whether the surface can be reached by bath, media, or a tap. Deep pockets, thin walls, and datum faces may need a review. If the automatic quote cannot apply Polishing, request a manual quotation.
Need Polishing on a batch, a mixed set, or a part that also needs tapping or paint? Keep those options in the same quote so lead time includes the full stack.
