Many industries are using abrasive flow machining (AFM) to finish a wide range of components. AFM provides many benefits over traditional finishing methods. The AFM process can enhance part performance, longevity and aesthetics.
The AFM process uses an abrasive media to remove surface irregularities and smooth manufactured parts. The abrasive media is extruded along the outer and inner surfaces of a part, eroding away burrs and polishing the workpiece. How long the process takes depends on many factors, including the type of abrasive material used, its concentration and the composition of the workpiece.
AFM is effective at smoothing and polishing parts made from a wide range of materials. It is especially suited for finishing parts made from metal. AFM can be used to finish many types of hardened steels, exotic alloys, and heat-resistant metals,
Metal Parts That Can Be Finished With AFM.
Some of the metal parts that are finished using the AFM process can include:
- Intake manifolds, cylinder heads, exhaust manifolds, and other types of engine components that require precise surface finishing to optimize airflow and combustion efficiency.
- Turbine blades and other components used in gas turbines and jet engines. AFM finishing enhances aerodynamic performance and reduces frictional losses.
- AFM can ensure proper fluid flow and control.in hydraulic valve bodies.
- Molds and dies used in metal forming processes. AFM can improve product quality and reduce post-processing.
- Pump impellers, valve bodies, fluid conduits and other pump and valve components that require internal surface finishing to minimize friction and improve fluid flow characteristics.
- Medical implants, surgical instruments, and prosthetic devices. The AFM finishing process can achieve precise surface finishes and ensure biocompatibility.
- Complex aerospace components that have intricate internal passages requiring precise finishing for optimal performance and reliability.
- AFM can improve the performance and durability of racing engine components and suspension parts.
Why Abrasive Flow Machining?
AFM offers several advantages for finishing metal parts:
- The abrasive flow media used in the AFM process can access and finish intricate internal passages, cavities, and complex geometries that are difficult to reach using traditional machining methods.
- AFM can provide uniform material removal across the entire surface of a part, ensuring consistent surface finishes and dimensional accuracy.
- The process parameters in AFM can be precisely controlled to achieve the desired surface finish.
- AFM can effectively remove burrs, sharp edges, and surface irregularities from metal parts, resulting in smoother edges and improved part functionality.
- AFM can be used to finish multiple parts simultaneously.
- AFM is a non-chemical process that produces minimal waste and does not generate harmful emissions or by-products.
Abrasive Flow Machining in Pennsylvania
Deburring & Finishing Technologies has been providing reliable AFM services to companies in Pittsburgh and throughout the state of Pennsylvania since 2009. We can precision finish a wide range of parts composed of metal, plastic, ceramics, and composite materials. We also mix and sell abrasive flow media.
Contact Deburring & Finishing Technologies for more information on our AFM finishing services and abrasive flow media. You can reach us through our website or call us at (412) 849-1522 to get more information and receive a quote.