Using abrasive flow machining, Extrude Hone AFM can direct abrasive-filled polymer media through passages and other internal features where conventional polishing methods may be difficult to use consistently.
The process is particularly useful when the surface requiring improvement is an integral but inaccessible part of the component.
Why Use AFM for Internal Surface Finishing?
Internal geometry presents one of the most persistent challenges in precision manufacturing.
A component may have the correct dimensions and still require a smoother surface after machining.
Tool marks, casting texture, additive-manufacturing roughness, or other raised surface features can remain inside the workpiece.
AFM allows an abrasive medium to flow across those surfaces without needing a rigid polishing tool to reach them directly.
Applications for Central Ohio Manufacturing
Columbus and the surrounding Ohio manufacturing region support automotive, aerospace, medical, electronics, machinery, and other advanced industries.
Suitable AFM applications may include:
- Automotive fuel and air passages
- Hydraulic manifolds
- Aerospace components
- Pumps and turbines
- Dies and molds
- Medical components
- Additive-manufactured channels
- Precision industrial components
Automotive and Fluid-Handling Components
Ohio's automotive manufacturing supply chain produces components in which airflow, fuel flow, lubrication, cooling, and hydraulic operation can depend on complex internal passages.
Improving the surface of these pathways can be difficult with conventional finishing tools.
AFM follows the existing passage, providing a way to polish internal geometry while also addressing burrs or sharp edges where the application calls for it.
Surface Finish Improvement
The amount of improvement possible depends on where the component begins.
Typical examples published by Extrude Hone AFM include approximately 16–8 Ra improved to 3–4 Ra, 32 Ra improved to 8 Ra or better, 64 Ra improved to 16 Ra or better, and 125 Ra improved to roughly 63 Ra or better.
These figures illustrate the range of AFM surface improvement rather than guaranteed results.
Geometry and material both influence the process.
Materials for Flow Polishing
AFM can be used on a broad range of metals.
Extrude Hone AFM can process aluminum, bronze, copper, hardened materials, titanium, Inconel, superalloys, and other suitable metal workpieces.Abrasive and media characteristics are selected to account for material hardness and required finishing intensity.
Custom Tooling and Repeatability
AFM tooling supports the component, directs media to the appropriate surface, and protects other areas from unwanted abrasive action.
Once Extrude Hone AFM develops this system for a component, it can also provide a repeatable way to polish identical parts during future production.
This may reduce manual finishing labor and improve consistency on difficult internal surfaces.
Call (562) 531-2976 to discuss flow polishing for Columbus, OH and request a quote.
FAQs
Can AFM polish automotive components?
Yes. Automotive fuel and air passages are common applications for abrasive flow machining.
Can polishing also remove internal burrs?
Yes. Depending on the process requirements, AFM can polish surfaces while simultaneously deburring and conditioning edges.
Can Columbus manufacturers send parts to Extrude Hone AFM?
Yes. Extrude Hone AFM serves manufacturers nationwide from its Paramount, California processing facility.
