The 2B finish, also often referred to as the "mill finish," describes the unpolished cold-rolled steel plate itself as it arrives from the production plant. It may sometimes show a slight sheen from the rolling process, but no reflections.

Some parts machined from stainless steel plate have a 2B finish

                                                                                                           

The No. 3 brushed finish is achieved by polishing the metal product using a coated abrasive belt on a wide belt conveyor. This results in a rougher appearance because the final polish is done with a 100-120 grit belt. This common finish is most commonly applied to 304 stainless steel and is used in a wide range of industries.

The No. 3 brushed finish is the most commonly used polishing finish and is the least expensive

     

The No. 4 brushed finish is similar to the No. 3, except that it looks more refined and has a smoother appearance. After the initial polish, the final finish is achieved by polishing with a 120-180 grit belt. This particular finish is most commonly applied to 304 stainless steel and is used in a wide range of industries.

#4 Brushed Finish is also a fairly common finish and is less expensive

               

Cross-grain brushed finish is achieved by using a coated abrasive pad to sand in a cross-grain pattern. This special finish is often used on stainless steel parts used in construction projects, such as glass clamps, stainless steel railings, etc.

The effect of cross-grain brushed finish is between #4 brushed finish and #6 brushed finish.

           

Similar to #4, but with a finer, smoother appearance. After the initial polish, the final finish is achieved by polishing with a 240-320 grit abrasive belt. Often used in high-end stainless steel casting projects

                                                                                                               

A highly reflective finish achieved by polishing a surface where the surface of the part is carefully ground to a mirror-like effect, but the sand lines are not removed through the final polishing process. This special finish is most commonly applied to 304 stainless steel and is used in a wide range of industries.

                                                                                                              

#8 Mirror Finish is considered the industry standard for a highly reflective, mirror-like appearance. This is achieved by directional sanding in several stages with an abrasive followed by buffing with rouge oil. The resulting surface is bright, highly reflective and virtually free of grit lines, although at certain angles some are still visible. This special surface treatment is frequently used in elevators and escalators on a variety of metal types.