Best Polishing Pads for Metallography - What’s Your Go-To?

Gem Related Discussion
1

I’m working on metallographic sample prep and have been experimenting with various polishing pads. Getting flat, scratch-free surfaces is so critical before microscopy or etching.

I’ve been testing Smart-Cut Polishing Pads designed specifically for metallography (they aim to balance durability, flatness, and minimal scratching). You can check out their specs here: https://ukam.com/product/smart-cut-polishing-pads-for-metallography-sample-preparation/

Have others used this brand or similar pads? Which pad material (felt, microfiber, cloth, etc.), grit stages, or pressure/settings have given you the smoothest, most reproducible finishes?

2

I’m not working on anything in a lab but I do facet stones. I use zinc, type metal, tin, lead, ceramic and a few synthetic laps to polish extremely flat facets. Ceramic being the best in my opinion. I am completely ignorant of the process or type of material you are working with so I may not be spot on or helpful in my suggestions. Best of luck!!

The batt lap by gearloose has been studied as far as flatness. If I remember correctly the data is on gearlooses website.