Cut Buffing vs. Color Buffing

Within both Tangential and Mush Buffing there is the option to Cut Buff or Color Buff.  This operation has to do with the direction that the part moves to the rotation of the buffing wheel.  The difference can be very different. 

The Cut Buff motion is more aggressive in removing small scratches and produces a smooth but dull finish on the part.  It also has leaves a thin compound residue that has the appearance of a haze.

The Color Buff motion is not as aggressive in removing imperfections but produces a more reflective (shiny) finish.  It also removes most of the compound residue leaving the part cleaner than the Cut Buff motion.  

In the picture above the top faucet is after Color Buffing and the Bottom Faucet is after Cut Buffing

Cut Buffing: is accomplished by pressing the part firmly against the buff and “pulling” the part along the buff against the direction of the buffing wheel rotation.  It usually takes several passes to remove the imperfections in the piece.

Color Buffing: is usually done last and is accomplished by pressing “lightly” on the buff and allowing the part to move slowly in the same direction as the buffing wheel.  It often takes no more than two passes in the color direction to achieve the desired finish.

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