Vibratory finishing automates both chemical and mechanical finishing of different parts. During the process, a combination of components, parts, and media are placed in the vibrating machine. Vibrations make the contents move in different motions, and media grinds against parts to create the required finish.
You can either configure the vibratory finishing process as a batch system or a continuous system. For the batch system, parts get loaded, processed, and then unloaded before another batch is prepared. On the other hand, the continuous system loads parts from one end and then to the other part. You can consult your Vibratory Finishing Machine Manufacturer in China to choose the right system for your business.
Benefits of Vibratory Finishing
The good thing about vibratory finishing is that it reduces processing times that come with manual finishing. Moreover, it produces a consistent finish with the manual finish. Therefore, you do not have to rework. In this way, you reduce part rejects rate.
You should note that vibratory finishing can be customized to suit various applications. In fact, there is a minimal probability of damaging large or delicate parts because of the circular motion of the media and components. Parts of various materials and shapes are easily processed in the vibratory finishing machine. Also, the process helps process components and parts with holes, slots, and cavities. Loading and unloading of these machines are easy.
Vibratory Finishing Process Steps
Collect Information About the Part
If you want to get the desired surface finish, you have to use the right compound, media, and machinery. When you know the part, you can determine other parameters such as materials, shape, dimensions, and surface roughness. With these, you can determine parts to be processed in every batch and your finishing requirements.
Choose Vibratory Finishing Machine
The common types of vibratory finishing machines include duals, dryers, bowls, and vibratory troughs. It is a good idea to understand the pros and cons of each machine to determine one that works for you. For instance, the trough machine is ideal for irregular, longer, and larger components. The machine is versatile and is available in different sizes. These machines suit different applications, such as cleaning, surface improvement, polishing, descaling, and deburring.
Determine Number of Parts
The number of parts that can be processed can be determined by calculating part to media ratio. In this case, you have to take into account the part volume and determine usable volume. These guidelines can help you determine the media to part ratio. For delicate or precision parts, it is advisable to finish them individually. In this way, you can avoid part interaction.
Choose Right Media
As noted above, if you want to achieve the right surface finish, you have to use appropriate machinery, compound, and media. The common media types available in the market include plastic, aluminum oxide, wood pegs, plastic, stainless steel, and ceramic. For removing polishing lines, burrs, and burnishing, you should use ceramic media.
Choose Right Compound
Compounds play a critical role in the vibratory finishing process. For instance, they suspend oils, dirt, and media residues. Moreover, they help keep the media and components clean to increase stability in the process. They also have other advantages that include brightening, corrosion inhibition, and brightening of various materials.
