Using abrasive flow machining, Extrude Hone AFM can improve surfaces inside valves, manifolds, fittings, and fluid or gas-handling components where conventional finishing tools may not provide adequate access.
High-Purity Components Have Hidden Surface Requirements
A precision component can contain substantial internal complexity.
Even after CNC machining, drilling, EDM, or other manufacturing operations, passages may retain:
- Burrs
- Tool marks
- Surface roughness
- Microscopic cavities
- Sharp cross-hole intersections
- Uneven internal transitions
For semiconductor process systems, reducing those features can help create a smoother underlying surface.
Extrude Hone AFM specifically includes semiconductor fabrication among the applications for its ultrapure fluid-handling AFM capabilities.How AFM Works Inside the Component
A polymer media containing abrasive particles is moved through the workpiece under pressure.
Unlike a rigid polishing tool, the media conforms to the passage.
Abrasive particles contact raised areas of the surface and gradually remove material.
The process may be used for:
- Semiconductor equipment valves
- Precision manifolds
- Gas-handling components
- High-purity fluid parts
- Fittings
- Cross-drilled passages
- Internal channels
Charlotte Advanced Manufacturing
Charlotte and the Carolinas manufacturing corridor support electronics, aerospace, automotive, energy, precision machining, and advanced manufacturing.
Semiconductor-related supply chains extend well beyond the fabrication facility itself.
Manufacturers producing valves, fittings, manifolds, and process components may supply equipment builders and fabrication operations throughout the country.
AFM can provide specialized internal finishing for these suppliers.
Surface Roughness Improvement
Extrude Hone AFM documents significant AFM surface improvements in suitable metal components.Representative examples include 16–18 Ra reduced to approximately 3–4 Ra, 32 Ra to 8 Ra or better, and 64 Ra to 16 Ra or better.
These values vary with the application.
The starting condition, passage size, workpiece material, and media determine what final finish is achievable.
Internal Burr Removal
Cross-drilled flow components can contain burrs at intersections hidden inside the part.
AFM can route abrasive media directly through the feature.
This makes it possible to remove the burr and improve the surrounding passage without creating a separate mechanical access point.
High-Purity Applications
For ultrapure gas and fluid systems, reducing internal roughness and machining remnants can support a cleaner underlying component surface.
AFM is one manufacturing step in that process.
Manufacturers remain responsible for their own downstream cleaning, inspection, cleanroom handling, and semiconductor-specific qualification requirements.
Tooling Directs and Protects
Extrude Hone AFM uses AFM fixtures to support the component, direct media toward the target area, and protect other surfaces.This selective control is useful when only particular internal passages require polishing.
Material Compatibility
AFM can work with titanium, Inconel, superalloys, hardened materials, aluminum, copper, bronze, and other metals.
Request Charlotte Semiconductor Component Finishing
Call (562) 531-2976 to discuss semiconductor component finishing for Charlotte, NC with Extrude Hone AFM.
FAQs
Can AFM finish semiconductor valves and manifolds?
Suitable internal pathways in valves, manifolds, and related components can be processed using AFM.
Can AFM improve both roughness and burr condition?
Yes. Surface polishing and internal deburring can often be performed within the same process.
