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How Does AFM Work?

Are you interested in utilizing abrasive flow machining but are more curious about how it really works? You are not alone! At Extrude Hone AFM, we get questions all the time about how our abrasive flow machining process works. We are happy to break it down for you. Keep reading to learn more about abrasive flow machining and how it works.

What is AFM?

Abrasive flow machining is also known as extrude honing. Simply put, it is the process by which materials are finished. Abrasive flow machining is utilized on workpieces that are tiny or have small passages that would otherwise be extremely difficult or impossible to finish, polish, or radius. During abrasive flow machining, an abrasive laden substance is passed through the workpiece using hydraulic pressure. This substance polishes or removes burrs or material from the workpiece.

What factors are variable in AFM?

At Extrude Hone AFM, our abrasive flow machining is entirely customizable. We do this by examining the workpiece of taking into account the type of material, hardness of the material, quality or density of the material, and the size and the amount of passages to be processed.

Based on this analysis, we alter different aspects of the media to get your desired result, including:

  • The media flow rate or speed of each pass or cycle
  • Media carrier viscosity: high, medium, low, or different combinations of 2 will change the characteristics of the media's effectiveness on different materials and hole sizes
  • Abrasive particle size: ranging from a fine powder-like 1000-grit to 8-grit comparable to small rocks or gravel
  • Abrasive concentration per pound of media

Contact Extrude Hone AFM today for help with your AFM project!

If you were wondering how abrasive flow machining works, hopefully this blog helped you sort it out. The abrasive flow machining process is entirely customizable, which is why so many industries look to utilize it. At Extrude Hone AFM, we work will all types of industries and clients to deliver the results they need. Give us a call at (562) 531-2976 to discuss your needs and see how our team can help.

To learn more about the reliable and quality extrude honing and abrasive flow machining services that we offer, visit us on the web at Extrude Hone AFM .