As metal parts are fabricated, they undergo a variety of metalworking processes that can introduce burrs. Untreated metal parts may have jagged edges that can pose a risk to parts’ quality and safety. Deburring with use of electropolishing provides the needed solution. This metal finishing treatment enhances parts’ performance, improves part appearance, all while maintaining the parts’ shape without warping or distortion. Want to learn more about deburring? Examine the following benefits of this metal finishing operation.
Enhances Part Quality
Burrs in metal parts can compromise device performance by reducing the speed and ease of their use. If left untreated, they could ultimately cause part failure. Deburring is an effective method for smoothing metal parts to promote superior part performance.
Increases Safety
Metal parts with jagged edges could pose a safety risk. For example, if these parts are used in medical applications and a jagged edge breaks off during an operation, the patients’ health and safety could be compromised. Deburring these parts ensures every application goes smoothly without introducing any opportunities for harm.
Improve Aesthetic Value
Metal parts with burrs or jagged edges can be unsightly. If metal parts and devices are burr-heavy, consumers may assume it is damaged or unsafe and may even be cautious to use the product. Once parts are deburred, they have smooth, rounded edges that have a more attractive appearance.
Maintains Part Shape Without Distorting
Not all metal finishing treatments provide the same benefits. Treatments like tumbling or vibratory finishes could alter the shape of metal parts. Electropolishing, however, maintains the part’s original shape while still removing imperfections.
Electropolishing Treatments: The Total Package
When companies want to submit their metal parts for deburring treatments, they often choose electropolishing. During the electropolishing process, metal parts are submerged in a chemical bath, charged to turn AC voltages to DC. An electrolyte then acts as a conductor to remove metal ions. Electropolishing removes a uniform layer of surface material and provides multiple benefits, including:
- Corrosion resistance—Untreated metal parts are susceptible to developing corrosion and rust over time. Electropolishing provides the highest level of protection from corrosion by eliminating initiation sites where corrosion could form, even for complex shapes.
- Ultracleaning— Electropolishing eliminates deeply embedded surface contaminants to produce a smooth, ultraclean surface.
- Microfinish improvement—Metal parts may have micro cracks and other surface anomalies that, while not visible to the human eye, could eventually worsen and compromise part performance. Electropolishing eliminates these micro defects.
- Decorative Finishes—In addition to removing burrs and smoothing out edges, electropolishing enhances the aesthetic value of metal parts. Following treatment, metal parts have a noticeably bright, shiny appearance.
