Abrasive flow machining can reach complex passages using flexible abrasive media, allowing internal surfaces to be polished without requiring a conventional tool to directly follow every feature.
For central Indiana's automotive and performance manufacturing sectors in particular, this can provide a valuable method for improving difficult air and fluid passages.
How Flow Polishing Works
During AFM, abrasive particles are suspended within a viscoelastic polymer media.
Hydraulic force pushes the media through the selected area of the component.
The media molds itself to the internal geometry and removes raised surface features as it flows.
Passage restrictions increase the local action of the media, while tooling allows Extrude Hone AFM to control which surfaces receive abrasive flow.
Automotive and Motorsports Applications
Indianapolis has a strong connection to automotive manufacturing and motorsports engineering.
AFM has long been used in high-performance automotive applications, particularly to improve internal fuel and air passages.
Flow polishing may be considered for suitable:
- Intake-related components
- Engine passages
- Fuel pathways
- Airflow passages
- Performance components
- Hydraulic components
The process can also perform deburring and edge radiusing where those operations are needed.
Aerospace, Medical, and Industrial Uses
AFM is not limited to engines.
Indianapolis-area aerospace and medical manufacturers may also have components containing hard-to-reach internal surfaces.
Dies, molds, pumps, turbines, precision tooling, and additive-manufactured components can present similar polishing challenges.
Extrude Hone AFM develops the process according to the actual geometry and finish requirement.Typical Surface Finish Improvements
Representative results from Extrude Hone AFM include approximately 16–8 Ra improved to 3–4 Ra and 32 Ra improved to 8 Ra or better.
A 64 Ra surface may reach 16 Ra or better in a suitable application.
Final results vary, and no single improvement ratio applies to every part.
Workpiece hardness, passage shape, starting roughness, media formulation, abrasive characteristics, and processing conditions all affect the final finish.
Materials Suitable for AFM
Extrude Hone AFM can polish metals ranging from aluminum, bronze, and copper to hardened steels, titanium, Inconel, and other superalloys.This makes AFM suitable for many automotive, aerospace, and precision manufacturing materials.
Repeatable Finishing for Production
Hand polishing an internal passage can be difficult even once. Repeating that operation consistently across many identical parts is more challenging.
Once AFM tooling and media conditions are developed, Extrude Hone AFM can provide a controlled process for recurring components.
Call (562) 531-2976 to discuss flow polishing for Indianapolis, IN and request a quote.
FAQs
Can AFM be used on high-performance automotive components?
Yes. High-performance fuel and air passages are long-established applications for abrasive flow machining.
Can AFM polish Inconel?
Yes. Inconel and other difficult-to-machine metals can be processed with AFM.
Does Extrude Hone AFM serve Indianapolis manufacturers?
Yes. Extrude Hone AFM provides nationwide AFM services from its California processing facility.
