Finish the Surfaces EDM Leaves Behind
Electrical discharge machining is capable of producing extremely intricate features, but the process may leave a recast layer formed by resolidified material.
Where specifications call for that layer to be removed, Extrude Hone AFM can use AFM to selectively finish the affected surfaces.
The process can help:
- Remove EDM recast
- Improve surface finish
- Reach internal passages
- Finish intersecting holes and complex cavities
- Improve repeatability between parts
- Maintain critical geometry
Abrasive Media as a Flexible Finishing Tool
In AFM, abrasive particles are suspended in a polymer media and directed through the areas of the workpiece requiring finishing.
Rather than forcing a rigid polishing tool into the component, the media conforms to the geometry through which it flows.
That difference is particularly important for parts containing internal features that cannot be reached directly by conventional finishing equipment.
Precision Applications in the Bay Area
The greater San Francisco Bay Area supports medical technology, semiconductor, aerospace, research and advanced manufacturing operations in which precision surfaces and complex geometries are common.
Components may require EDM specifically because of their material or intricate design. AFM can then provide a complementary process for refining the resulting EDM surface.
Extrude Hone AFM can evaluate prototype components, specialized parts and production quantities.Controlled Results Based on Your Specifications
The goal is not simply to remove as much material as possible. The goal is to achieve the required surface condition while maintaining the intended part geometry.
For appropriate workpieces, AFM can improve approximately a 1 micron (40 Ra) finish to around 0.1 micron (4 Ra).
Contact Extrude Hone AFM
If you need EDM recast removal for components from San Francisco or elsewhere in the Bay Area, Extrude Hone AFM can review the application and recommend an AFM approach.
Call (562) 531-2976 to request a quote.
FAQs
Why is AFM useful after EDM?
EDM can produce geometry that is difficult for conventional tools to access. AFM can follow many of those same complex passages to finish the resulting surface.
Can AFM handle precision components?
Yes. AFM is a controlled process frequently selected specifically for complex precision components.
Does Extrude Hone AFM operate a San Francisco facility?
No local facility is implied. Extrude Hone AFM serves San Francisco-area manufacturers from its processing facility in Paramount, California.
