Phoenix, AZ manufacturers can use Extrude Hone AFM for EDM recast removal when intricate components require controlled surface finishing after electrical discharge machining. Abrasive flow machining can remove recast from accessible internal and external surfaces while reaching geometry that may be difficult to finish with conventional tools.
For aerospace, semiconductor, medical and other precision manufacturing applications, this capability can provide an important bridge between creating a complex EDM feature and achieving the required final surface condition.
Why EDM Surfaces May Need Additional Finishing
Electrical discharge machining creates features through electrical erosion. While highly effective for hard materials and detailed geometry, it can leave a thin resolidified layer on the machined surface.
This EDM recast layer may need to be removed depending on the part's engineering requirements.
AFM gives Extrude Hone AFM the ability to remove this material in a controlled way while also improving surface finish.
AFM Reaches Where Rigid Tools Cannot
Instead of using a rigid cutting or polishing tool, abrasive flow machining uses polymer media containing abrasive particles.
The media is directed through the workpiece, conforming to the shape of the passage and contacting the surfaces along the flow path. As it moves, it removes controlled amounts of material.
That makes AFM useful for:
- Internal passages
- Small openings
- Intersecting holes
- Complex cavities
- Precision dies and molds
- Features with limited tool access
The process can be tailored through media formulation, abrasive selection, tooling and other controlled variables.
Supporting Precision Manufacturing in Phoenix
The Phoenix region has become an important center for aerospace, semiconductor and advanced manufacturing. These applications can involve complex components manufactured from specialized materials and held to exacting specifications.
EDM is often valuable precisely because it can produce geometry other machining methods struggle to create. When the newly created feature subsequently requires recast removal, the finishing method must be able to work with that same complexity.
AFM is designed to do exactly that.
Controlled Surface Improvement
Extrude Hone AFM develops the AFM process around the customer's required outcome rather than applying the same treatment to every part.
For suitable applications, AFM can improve a surface from approximately 1 micron (40 Ra) to approximately 0.1 micron (4 Ra) while maintaining the workpiece's required geometry.
Request Phoenix EDM Recast Removal
Tell Extrude Hone AFM what material you're working with, which surfaces require recast removal and what specifications the finished component must meet.
Call (562) 531-2976 to discuss your Phoenix, AZ EDM components and request a quote.
FAQs
Can AFM finish semiconductor components?
AFM can be used for appropriate precision components in semiconductor manufacturing as well as many other industries. The individual component must be evaluated for process suitability.
What materials can be processed?
AFM can be applied to many metals and alloys. Extrude Hone AFM selects media and process conditions based on the material and required result.
Does Extrude Hone AFM serve Phoenix remotely?
Yes. Components can be sent to Extrude Hone AFM's Paramount, California facility for processing.
