"graining" aluminum top plates?

[Jim R.]

How does one go about putting a nice "grained" texture on an aluminum plate? I'm talking about the graining that used to be on the. older BH kits -- not the new pattern that is now used.

I want to do some kind of decent looking grain on a top plate for my s.e.x. amp (oversize top plate) before I do the transparent copper powdercoat. I could polish it, but that would cost me as I really can't do a good job of that myself.

Also, dumb question, but did the grain run left-to-right, or front-to-back?

Any help is much appreciated.

Thanks,

Jim

[Doc B.]

That kind of graining is done with a large flat bed belt sander.

[Brent]

I've gotten similar effect on stainless steel by hand with sandpaper and a block. Unfortunately, I have no recollection of the grits used. Direction of grain is side to side on my late 2000 s SEX 2.0.

[mcandmar]

I created a brushed looked on the chokes for my S.E.X. amp the same way, sand in straight lines, and only in one direction. Think i used ~800grit emery paper.

[Jim R.]

Thanks all,

I think I have the perfect tool -- I've made a couple of large sanding blocks using sheets of sandpaper cut from time saver belts. Now I just have to find them :-).

Thanks,

Jim

P.S. -- I think I remember something like 320 grit was used, and I think I have a time saver belt in 320 grit.