Technical Guide to Screen Polishing Machines: Glass Refurbishment and ROI Analysis

Introduction to Water-Mill Screen Polishing Technology

In the mobile repair industry, the demand for screen refurbishment has shifted from simple glass replacement to surface restoration. A screen polishing machine utilizes water-mill injection technology to physically remove scratches from smartphone screens and Apple Watch glass. Unlike chemical fillers that offer temporary solutions, these machines grind the glass surface down by microns to eliminate physical damage, restoring the original clarity and touch sensitivity.

This process relies on a combination of friction, water, and cerium oxide powder (polishing powder). The objective is to provide a cost-effective alternative to full screen replacement, particularly for devices where the OLED or LCD panel remains functional but the outer glass entails cosmetic damage.

Core Mechanisms of Scratch Removal

The refurbishment process involves precise mechanical abrasion. Understanding the components is essential for technicians operating a phone screen polishing machine.

• Grinding: The machine uses weighted pressure and abrasive pads to level the glass surface surrounding the scratch.

• Polishing: A finer slurry of polishing powder and water circulates to smooth the micro-abrasions caused by grinding, returning the glass to a glossy finish.

• Cooling: Continuous water circulation prevents the screen from overheating, which could damage the digitizer or liquid crystal layer.

Types of Polishing Equipment

Machines are generally categorized by capacity and form factor.

• Industrial/Multi-Station: Large units capable of holding 4-8 phones, designed for factory-level throughput.

• Desktop/Mini: Compact units designed for repair shops with limited space. These often feature dual-station capabilities to balance footprint with efficiency.

Operational Workflow for Glass Restoration

To achieve professional results, technicians must follow a standardized protocol. This ensures safety for the device and consistency in the finish.

1. Waterproofing (Crucial Step)

Before placing a device in a water polishing machine, it must be sealed. Polishing involves significant moisture. Technicians apply UV waterproof glue or specialized molds to seal the charging port, earpiece, and buttons. Failure here results in liquid damage.

2. The Polishing Cycle

The device is placed into the mold. The machine applies specific pressure based on the depth of the scratches. Deep scratches require longer grinding times compared to surface-level micro-scratches.

3. Oleophobic Coating Application

Polishing removes the factory-applied oil-resistant layer. Post-polishing, a new layer of oleophobic coating must be applied to ensure the screen feels smooth and resists fingerprints.

Equipment Spotlight: TBK 938F Technical Specifications

For repair businesses prioritizing space efficiency without sacrificing output, the TBK 938F Dual-Station Mini Desktop Screen Polishing Machine provides a targeted solution. This equipment integrates industrial-grade components into a desktop form factor.

The TBK 938F utilizes a frequency conversion speed regulation servo motor. This motor type is distinct for maintaining consistent torque at varying speeds, which is critical when applying friction to glass. Furthermore, the servo mechanism significantly reduces operational noise compared to traditional brushed motors, making it suitable for front-of-house retail environments.

Technical Comparison of Polishing Solutions