Polishing removes scratches from a car’s surface through a combination of mechanical abrasion and the properties of the polishing compound used.

Here’s how the process works:

1. Abrasive Action:

• Polishing Compounds: Most polishing compounds contain fine abrasive particles that are designed to smooth out the surface of the paint. When applied with a polishing pad or buffing wheel, these abrasives gently grind away the top layer of the paint, effectively leveling the surface.
• Scratch Depth: The abrasives in the compound are designed to be slightly coarser than the paint surface, allowing them to remove the top layer of paint where the scratch resides. This is particularly effective for shallow scratches that only penetrate the clear coat.

2. Heat Generation:

• Friction: The mechanical action of the polishing tool generates friction, which can create heat. This heat can help soften the paint slightly, allowing the abrasives to work more effectively and making it easier to smooth out imperfections.

3. Smoothing the Surface:

• Leveling: As the polishing compound is worked into the paint, it levels the surface by removing the material around the scratch. This process can make the scratch less visible or completely remove it, depending on its depth and severity.
• Refining: After the initial polishing, finer polishing compounds can be used to refine the surface further, enhancing gloss and clarity.

4. Final Touches:

• Buffing: After polishing, the surface is typically buffed with a clean microfiber towel to remove any residue from the polishing compound. This step also helps to bring out the shine and smoothness of the paint.

Conclusion:

In summary, polishing removes scratches by using abrasive compounds to level the paint surface, effectively grinding away the material around the scratch. This process restores the paint’s smoothness and clarity, making imperfections less noticeable or eliminating them altogether. Regular polishing can help maintain the vehicle’s appearance and protect the paint from further damage.