During manufacturing, metal parts may be subjected to processes that create burrs. Burrs are most commonly characterized as raised edges or small pieces of material that remain attached to an object after a reformation procedure. Burrs usually appear after machining operations such as stamping, drilling, milling, rolling, grinding, engraving or turning.
In most cases, these protruding pieces of material must be removed. Left untreated, the quality and safety of the metal parts with burrs may be adversely impacted.
The Benefits of Electropolishing
Electropolishing is the most effective solution for removing micro burrs. This advanced metal finishing process improves parts’ performance, enhances appearance, and does not alter the part’s shape, warp or distort it in any way. To lean more electropolishing as an effective method for deburring, consider the following benefits of this metal finishing operation.
Increased Safety
There is a safety risk involved with metal parts with burrs or jagged edges. For instance, if one of the burrs becomes dislodged or breaks off during a procedure, the operator’s health and safety could be compromised. The deburring process ensures every application is carried out efficiently without increasing any chance of injury.
Improved Quality
Burrs can also reduce the speed, affect the efficiency or inhibit the practical use of metal parts. They could ultimately cause part failure if left untreated. Electropolishing is an effective method for deburring and optimizing the speed and use of metal parts, as well as smoothing their surfaces to promote superior performance.
Maintains Part Shape and Eliminates Distortion
Not all metal finishing processes are created equal. Electropolishing is the only method of metal finishing that preserves the part’s original shape while still eliminating imperfections. The use of other methods such as tumbling or vibratory finishing could potentially alter the parts’ shape.
Enhanced Aesthetic Value
In addition to decreased safety and quality, metal parts with burrs or serrated edges can be unsightly. Consumers may consider metal parts and devices with burrs defective and dangerous. Once parts are deburred using the electropolishing technique, they will be left with smooth, radiused edges resulting in a more appealing and safe part condition.
A Complete Solution for Metal Parts With Burrs
Electropolishing is the most effective choice for companies wishing to submit their metal parts for deburring. During the electropolishing process, metal parts are immersed in a chemical bath, where a power source converts AC current to DC. The electrolyte acts as a conductor to allow metal ions to be removed from the part. During the polishing, a uniform layer of surface material is removed, resulting in a multitude of benefits, including:
- Elimination of Micro-Defects— Micro-cracks and surface irregularities not visible to the human eye will be removed. This helps eliminate the possibility that these imperfections could worsen and compromise part performance.
- Ultracleaning— Electropolishing completely removes deeply imbedded surface impurities to produce an even, sanitary surface.
- Resistance to Corrosion—Left untreated, many metal parts are predisposed to the buildup of corrosion and rust. Electropolishing provides the highest level of protection from corrosion by eliminating sites for possible corrosion, even on irregular shapes.
- Enhanced Aesthetic Value—In addition to removing burrs and rounding edges, electropolishing increases the visual appeal of metal parts. After electropolishing, metal parts are left with a bright, shiny finish.
To learn more about deburring, electropolishing and other metal finishing methods, contact Able today.
