Abrasive flow machining uses abrasive-laden polymer media to finish fuel and air passages from within.
The media conforms to the component, allowing it to reach bends, transitions, and other internal geometry that conventional porting tools may not access uniformly.
Automotive and Motorsports AFM
Indianapolis has a strong connection to motorsports, performance engineering, and engine development.
AFM is well suited to this environment because automotive performance was one of the major industries in which the process became established.
Extrude Hone AFM has applied the technology to many engine types, including diesels, turbos, hemis, motorcycles, and engines with a wide variety of cylinder configurations.Components That May Benefit
Automotive AFM can be evaluated for:
- Intake manifolds
- Exhaust manifolds
- Turbo impellers
- Turbo housings
- Pumps
- Cylinders
- Fuel passages
- Air passages
- Other performance flow components
Existing Extrude Hone AFM material for Indianapolis specifically identifies intake and exhaust manifolds, turbo-related components, pumps, and cylinders among common applications.
Improving Flow and Volumetric Efficiency
Internal passage restrictions can limit the amount of air and fuel moving through an engine.
AFM gradually smooths those surfaces and reduces restrictive areas.
Extrude Hone AFM reports that suitable automotive components may achieve fuel and air-flow improvements of up to 25 percent.Potential benefits may include:
- Increased horsepower
- Increased torque
- Better volumetric efficiency
- Improved combustion
- Better cylinder evacuation
These depend on the engine as a whole and cannot be guaranteed from AFM alone.
Intake Manifold Priority
For customers choosing one component to process, Extrude Hone AFM recommends the intake manifold.
Its internal runners directly affect incoming airflow, making it a logical focus for improving engine breathing.
Material Selection
Indianapolis performance engines may use aluminum, cast iron, and other metals.
Extrude Hone AFM can vary the abrasive media according to the material.The media is formulated to maintain abrasive distribution as it flows so material removal remains consistent through bends and turns.
Repeatable Processing for Racing Applications
Consistency matters when building multiple components or trying to flow-match similar passages.
Once Extrude Hone AFM establishes the tooling, abrasive, media, and pressure for a particular component, the process can be repeated.
This can be valuable for motorsports work where small variations between components may be undesirable.
Controlled Material Removal
For automotive flow applications, material removal may reach approximately 1 millimeter, or .040 inch, where appropriate.
The process is engineered to improve flow without simply enlarging the component indiscriminately.
Call (562) 531-2976 to discuss Indianapolis, IN automotive AFM.
FAQs
Can AFM be used for motorsports engines?
Yes. Performance and racing applications are among the strongest uses for automotive AFM.
Can AFM process turbo components?
Yes. Turbo impellers and housings are among the parts Extrude Hone AFM identifies for the process.
Does Extrude Hone AFM serve Indianapolis?
Yes. Extrude Hone AFM processes automotive parts for customers throughout the United States.
