AFM was originally developed for deburring and finishing critical aircraft hydraulic and fuel-system components, and the process remains well suited to demanding aerospace applications today.
How Abrasive Flow Machining Supports Aerospace Components
During abrasive flow machining, a viscoelastic polymer media containing abrasive particles is forced through selected areas of the component. The media conforms to the workpiece geometry and contacts raised surface features along the flow path.
This allows Extrude Hone AFM to perform controlled finishing on intricate aerospace parts without requiring direct tool access to every surface.
Possible aerospace AFM applications include:
- Improving airfoil surface conditions on compressor and turbine components
- Finishing holes and attachment features
- Removing thermal recast layers left by EDM or laser processes
- Adjusting airflow resistance in blades, vanes, nozzles, diffusers, and combustion liners
- Finishing fuel spray nozzles and fuel-control bodies
- Deburring hydraulic and fuel-system passages
- Polishing bearing components
- Reworking components affected by coke or carbon deposits
These are established aerospace applications identified by Extrude Hone AFM for abrasive flow machining.
Aerospace Manufacturing in Los Angeles
Southern California has a long-established aerospace manufacturing base that includes aircraft, space, propulsion, defense, precision machining, and component suppliers.
These applications often involve difficult materials, complex internal passages, and demanding dimensional requirements. A surface may need to be smoother, an internal edge may require a controlled radius, or multiple flow holes may need more consistent performance.
AFM offers a way to address these requirements through a customizable finishing process.
Improving Flow Through Aerospace Components
Aerospace parts such as nozzles, blades, and vanes may contain multiple openings that must perform consistently.
If some flow holes are more restrictive than others, AFM can take advantage of that difference. More restrictive areas can experience greater abrasive action, which can help move the holes toward more consistent dimensions and flow capability over repeated cycles.
Extrude Hone AFM specifically identifies this approach for aerospace fuel and air nozzles containing multiple flow holes.Controlled Material Removal
Aerospace components leave little room for uncontrolled finishing.
Tooling directs the abrasive media toward the required features while protecting areas where material removal is not desired. Because each application differs, Extrude Hone AFM engineers the process around the individual aerospace component rather than applying a universal setting.
Request Aerospace AFM Services
Los Angeles aerospace manufacturers can send components to Extrude Hone AFM's Paramount, California facility for evaluation and processing.
Call (562) 531-2976 to discuss your component, material, required finish, edge condition, or flow requirements and request an aerospace AFM quote.
Aerospace AFM FAQs
Can AFM remove EDM recast from aerospace components?
Yes. Removing thermal recast layers created by EDM and laser processes is an established aerospace AFM application.
Can AFM improve airflow through a nozzle or vane?
Yes. AFM can be used to adjust flow resistance and improve flow consistency in suitable aerospace components.
Can AFM finish hydraulic passages?
Yes. In fact, finishing aircraft hydraulic and fuel-system components was among the original applications for abrasive flow machining.
