What is the difference between mirror grinding and surface grinding

Mirror grinding and surface grinding are two different processes used for shaping and finishing flat surfaces, but they differ in their goals and methods.

Mirror grinding is a specialized process used to create highly precise optical surfaces that have a very smooth finish and are free of defects or imperfections. It is typically used in the production of mirrors for telescopes and other optical instruments. Mirror grinding involves using a series of abrasive materials, such as silicon carbide and cerium oxide, to gradually polish the surface to the desired level of smoothness and accuracy.

Surface grinding, on the other hand, is a more general process used to create flat surfaces on a variety of materials, including metal, plastic, and wood. The goal of surface grinding is to remove material from the surface to achieve a specific level of flatness or smoothness. Surface grinding uses a rotating abrasive wheel to remove material, often with the aid of coolant to keep the workpiece and wheel cool during the process.

In summary, mirror grinding is a specialized process used for precise optical surfaces, while surface grinding is a more general process used for creating flat surfaces on a range of materials.