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An intentional dent I made in a lug for this demonstration.
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Areas where I am punching the steel back in place.
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The dent is pretty well closed and I can proceed to the stoning operation.
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400 grit diemakers stone used wet.
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If the dent or ding has displaced metal, then you can move that metal and restore it to its previous location. If the metal is gone, then this technique will not work, but in my experience most dents are just that...dents, where the metal is still there. If not, then a laser welder can fill areas where the metal once was.
I use a homemade high speed steel punch about 1mm in diameter. The face is flat and smooth. It can be tapped with a light hammer. The case should be held securely for this operation.
I start by hammering the raised portions of the steel, working my way toward the dent. It's a back and forth operation, working on both sides and pushing the metal back to where it was. You might think that 316L or 904 steel won't cooperate, but it will if you're persistent. This technique is called chasing and has been done for hundreds of years.
After the dent is closed, I used a 400 grit diemakers stone lubricated with oil. This rapid breakdown stone will smooth the surface while maintaining a very sharp, crisp edge to the lug. Care must be taken or you end up with a washed out "soap bar" effect with rounded edges and corners. Stones are the secret to preserving crisp edges.
Polishing and brushing would be next. I don't have the proper gear for that and only do it by hand. I'll leave that to the polishing experts