Abrasive flow machining uses flexible abrasive media to polish internal features that may be unreachable using traditional finishing tools.
This can be particularly valuable for aerospace, transportation, electronics, hydraulic, medical, and advanced manufacturing applications throughout the DFW region.
Why Internal Surface Finish Matters
Many precision parts contain internal surfaces that perform an important function.
Air, fuel, coolant, hydraulic fluid, or other media may move through an intricate passageway.
Other components may need smooth internal geometry because of cleanliness, fit, wear, or manufacturing specifications.
Machining can create the necessary geometry while leaving behind surface roughness.
AFM provides a way to improve that surface after machining.
How the Flow Polishing Process Works
A polymer media carrying abrasive particles is forced through the target portion of the workpiece.
The media changes shape as it moves, allowing it to follow internal passages and irregular features.
Abrasive particles contact raised areas of the surface and progressively smooth them.
Extrude Hone AFM uses tooling to control where the media flows and protect regions that should not be processed.DFW Aerospace and Precision Applications
The Dallas-Fort Worth region has a substantial aerospace and defense manufacturing presence along with electronics, transportation, medical, and industrial production.
Aerospace components commonly use high-performance materials and can contain complicated internal flow pathways.
Extrude Hone AFM can apply AFM to suitable aerospace parts as well as hydraulic systems, pumps, turbines, automotive components, dies, molds, and other precision workpieces.Typical Finish Improvements
AFM can significantly improve surface roughness in suitable applications.
Examples provided 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
- 125 Ra improved to 63 Ra or better
The exact result varies according to geometry, workpiece material, starting finish, and process conditions.
Materials for Flow Polishing
Extrude Hone AFM can use AFM on many metals found in DFW manufacturing.These include aluminum, copper, bronze, titanium, Inconel, superalloys, hardened materials, and other suitable metals.
Different materials require different abrasive and media choices.
Production Consistency
For recurring components, AFM provides another advantage beyond access.
Once tooling and media parameters are established, the process can provide controlled, repeatable finishing of the same internal surfaces across multiple parts.
This can reduce dependence on labor-intensive hand polishing.
Call (562) 531-2976 to discuss Dallas, TX flow polishing with Extrude Hone AFM.
FAQs
Is AFM suitable for aerospace alloys?
Yes. Titanium, Inconel, superalloys, and other difficult-to-machine metals can be processed using AFM.
Can AFM improve internal airflow surfaces?
Yes. Fuel and air passages are common applications for abrasive flow machining.
Can Dallas manufacturers ship parts to Extrude Hone AFM?
Yes. Extrude Hone AFM serves manufacturers nationwide from its Paramount, California facility.
