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Best process for small stainless steel tiles

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hello, my project requires the production of small metal tiles (approx. 50 mm x 50 mm) for decorative and functional purposes. The tiles need to have sharp, well-defined edges, a smooth surface finish, and consistent thickness, as they will be used in a visible architectural application. The material is stainless steel, and the production volume is around 5,000 units.

Would laser cutting followed by surface finishing (e.g., polishing or brushing) be the most efficient and cost-effective approach for this, or are there alternative manufacturing processes you’d recommend for this scale and quality requirement?

    • B

      hello, my project requires the production of small metal tiles (approx. 50 mm x 50 mm) for decorative and functional purposes. The tiles need to have sharp, well-defined edges, a smooth surface finish, and consistent thickness, as they will be used in a visible architectural application. The material is stainless steel, and the production volume is around 5,000 units.

      Would laser cutting followed by surface finishing (e.g., polishing or brushing) be the most efficient and cost-effective approach for this, or are there alternative manufacturing processes you’d recommend for this scale and quality requirement?

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    • l

      For this project, laser cutting is the optimal choice as it guarantees precise, sharp edges and uniform stainless-steel tiles with tight tolerances, ensuring consistency across all 5,000 units. For surface finishes, both polishing and brushing are options, with brushing offering a matte, industrial look, and polishing delivering a reflective, high-end finish. Polishing may increase time and costs, while brushing is more economical. For a balance of cost and quality, laser cutting with a light brushing finish is recommended.

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    • E

      Additionally, if you choose to outsource brushing, choose a reputable vendor capable of delivering high-quality, consistent results at scale. Automated brushing machines can ensure uniformity, minimizing human error. Make sure the tiles are handled consistently during finishing. To ensure texture and finish consistency, test several samples before scaling up production. This will help confirm the desired appearance is achieved across all pieces.

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Best process for small stainless steel tiles
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