Burnishing is a common process in pottery.
The concept of burñir comes from the Germanic brūnjan , in turn from brūn (which translates as "swarthy" ). The verb refers to the action that allows us to shine or shine an object or material .
Burnishing something, therefore, makes it shiny or lustrous. It is a common process in different areas, which can be developed on different types of elements and applying multiple techniques according to the requirements and needs.
Burnishing ceramics
Pottery is the art of creating pieces with baked clay. Those who dedicate themselves to this work usually burnish their products to improve their appearance and optimize their performance .
To burnish ceramics , the surface is rubbed until its appearance is polished . With this intention, stones, metals, glass, wood or even bones are used, which are carefully passed over and over again over the piece.
Burnishing helps the pores of the clay close. In this way, impermeability is gained. In addition, this same procedure usually provides shine .
There are those who, when honing, use a lubricant to minimize the risk of scratches. In any case, it is recommended to always burnish in the same direction and take care of the pressure applied to avoid damage.
The case of metals
Burnishing a metal allows impurities and unevenness to be eliminated. This is very important especially when you are manufacturing parts that must fit or function precisely.
The instrument used for this purpose is called a burnisher . Jewelers, silversmiths, goldsmiths and other craftsmen and professionals can use flint, jasper, steel or agate burnishers, for example.
The act of honing, in this framework, usually involves an abrasive operation because chips are removed in pursuit of surface quality or with the goal of grinding diameters. This burnishing is applied to the finishing of connecting rods, cylinders, liners and other engine components.
The action of burnishing improves the finish of metal parts.
How to hone cylinders
Focusing on the cylinders , burnishing is intended to eliminate the roughness that may have remained on the surface after the pre-machining work. For this, the utensil known as a cylinder burnisher can be used.
This device consists of conical-shaped metal rollers that rub on the cylinders. This eliminates depressions and peaks and achieves a precisely smoothed surface. Burnishing also helps to correct possible cylinder defects.
The notion in Central America
In Central American countries such as Nicaragua , Honduras , Costa Rica and Guatemala , the idea of burñir is associated with making a person uncomfortable, annoying or annoying . To burnish, therefore, means to displease or annoy.
For example : "Stop honing, I need to concentrate to solve these mathematical problems" , "Excuse me for honing again, but I need you to send me the documentation that I requested a few days ago so I can complete the procedure" , "It was not my intention to hone ." "Nobody, I was just having fun with my friends."
It is worth mentioning that the RAE includes another meaning of burnishing, although little used. The concept may refer to the use of different ingredients for facial makeup .