Electrical discharge machining makes it possible to produce intricate shapes and features in hard materials, but the process can leave behind a thin recast layer on the machined surface. Removing this affected material can be important when component performance, surface integrity and repeatability matter.
How AFM Removes EDM Recast
Abrasive flow machining uses a specially formulated, abrasive-laden polymer media that is directed through or across selected areas of a component under controlled conditions. As the media moves through the workpiece, it performs controlled material removal on the surfaces it contacts.
For EDM components, Extrude Hone AFM can use AFM to remove recast while improving the underlying surface finish. The process is especially well suited to intricate dies, molds and precision components containing narrow openings or difficult internal geometry.
Depending on the application, AFM can help:
- Remove EDM recast from difficult-to-access surfaces
- Improve surface finish after EDM
- Reduce surface irregularities that can contribute to stress concentration
- Finish complex internal passages uniformly
- Maintain critical component geometry
- Produce repeatable results across multiple parts
Precision Finishing for Los Angeles Manufacturers
The Los Angeles region supports an extensive manufacturing economy that includes aerospace, transportation, medical technology, precision machining and other industries where complex metal components are common.
When EDM is used to create detailed features in parts for demanding applications, finishing those features can present a separate manufacturing challenge. Conventional hand tools may not reach an internal passage or may produce inconsistent results from one component to another.
AFM provides a controlled way to reach these surfaces using media that conforms to the geometry of the workpiece.
Surface Improvement Without Unwanted Geometry Changes
A major concern when removing EDM recast is taking away the affected layer without unnecessarily changing the shape of the component.
Extrude Hone AFM carefully selects and controls variables such as media formulation, abrasive size, tooling and processing conditions according to the requirements of the part. AFM can be used to improve a surface from approximately 1 micron (40 Ra) to 0.1 micron (4 Ra) in suitable applications while preserving the required workpiece geometry.The exact result depends on the material, starting surface, component design and project specifications.
Components That May Benefit From EDM Recast Removal
AFM can be considered for many EDM-produced components, including:
- Dies
- Molds
- Aerospace components
- Precision tooling
- Hydraulic components
- Medical components
- Turbine and pump components
- Parts containing intersecting or internal passages
If a feature can be accessed by properly directed abrasive media, Extrude Hone AFM can evaluate whether AFM is an appropriate finishing method.
Get an EDM Recast Removal Quote
Every EDM component presents different finishing requirements. Extrude Hone AFM can review your part geometry, material, existing surface condition and desired result to determine an appropriate AFM process.
Call (562) 531-2976 to discuss EDM recast removal for components from Los Angeles, CA, and request a quote.
EDM Recast Removal FAQs
Can AFM remove EDM recast from internal passages?
Yes. One of AFM's primary advantages is its ability to finish internal passages and other complex areas that conventional tools may have difficulty reaching. Suitability depends on the geometry of the specific component.
Will EDM recast removal change my part dimensions?
AFM is a controlled material-removal process. Extrude Hone AFM develops the process around the required geometry and finishing specifications of the workpiece.
Does Extrude Hone AFM have to be located in Los Angeles to process my parts?
No. Extrude Hone AFM serves customers throughout the United States from its facility in Paramount, California. Los Angeles-area manufacturers can send components to Extrude Hone AFM for processing.
