Many people have no idea what we do here at Extrude Hone AFM. The purpose of this blog is to try and demystify abrasive flow machining for our wonderful clients and prospective clients. Read on for a quick class in Abrasive Flow Machining (AFM) 101:
Abrasive flow machining, simply put in the most rudimentary terms, is a mechanical process. It can be done on any metal material, including titanium, super alloys, hardened, and any difficult-to-machine materials.
What happens is that a material that’s similar to soft clay is used to improve the surface finish and edges of a component. It does this through the use of abrasive particles that grind away the material, leaving it smooth and with sharp edges for optimal functionality.
So AFM is used for surface and edge conditioning of internal, external, and any holes, slots, and edges of a component that would normally be practically inaccessible. It’s the best way to get your components working perfectly. AFM is highly efficient and accurate, and can also be used in both one-way and two-way applications if needed.
Factors that affect AFM
There are many factors that effect the rate material is removed from the surface of a metal component, including:
- Clay-like material flow rate
- Consistency of various types of clay-like materials, which are implemented in various applications to achieve desired results
- Abrasive particle size, concentration, density, and hardness
- The component’s hardness
AFM and Extrude Hone AFM
At Extrude Hone AFM we can control the rate at which the clay-like material flows, and how much pressure it puts on the metal component to achieve the desired outcome. We can also use different types of clay-like materials at different temperatures to remove the ideal amount of materials to leave your component in perfect condition. There are so many ways we can customize the AFM process to make your metal component perform its best. Our AFM process delivers consistent quality and complete repeatability for the metal components you depend on each day.
Another great aspect of AFM is that roughing and finishing on components are accomplished in the same process, saving so much time. It’s an efficient process that always guarantees great results.
More questions? Ready to send your component to Extrude Hone AFM?
We at Extrude Hone AFM are abrasive flow machining experts, and we’re happy to answer any other questions you may have about the AFM process. We understand that it can be hard to understand what is exactly accomplished by abrasive flow machining a component. But we’re certain that you’ll experience a remarkable difference when your components are run through the abrasive flow machining process at Extrude Hone AFM. Call (562) 531-2976 or fill out this form to get a free estimate for your component.
Discuss all the aspects of abrasive flow machining, get a free quote, and start the process of sending your components to Extrude Hone AFM today by calling (562) 531-2976. We look forward to fulfilling all your abrasive flow machining needs, and we know you’ll be thoroughly satisfied with your experience working with Extrude Hone AFM.
