By definition, isotropic is defined as having uniform physical properties in all directions. In mass surface finishing, an isotropic finish refines in every direction any discernable peaks, valleys, grinding marks or burrs created during production. Any residual imperfections are minute and only visible using a microscope.
Surface finish dictates the performance, integrity, durability and service life of any component. Creating a uniform texture reduces friction, heat, wear and vibration extends overall life cycle and decreases cost. The same isotropic principles can also be applied to create a functional cross hatch surface to distribute and retain oil, increasing lubricity, lowering overall friction, resulting in greater longevity and lowering overall operating costs.
Titanium, stainless steel, aluminum and polymer components produced for the medical industry illustrate the importance of the final surface finish. Surfaces finished isotropically reduce infection potential and improve biocompatibility, both critically important for orthopedic, cardiovascular and other implants. Improved surface finishes can reduce rejection and related complications, ultimately improving surgery success and patient outcomes.
Any material type can benefit from CBF processes. Some of the most common are:
Multiple finishing techniques are available for surface finishing such as:
Every finishing method has its strengths and limitations. Unlike other options, high-energy CBF maintains a component’s initial part geometries and does not change the material’s chemical properties.
Also known as mass finishing or harperizing, high-energy CBF tumbling uses centrifugal energy to uniformly refine parts in any material. Parts are placed in barrels mounted on a turret combined with designated tumbling media, water, and surfactant. The turret spins in one direction at a set speed creating centrifugal force – while the contents of the barrels slide against each other in the opposite direction. The action of the media and parts in the barrel creates the uniform, isotropic surface finish.
ISO Finishing is capable of completing customized, documented and repeatable surface finishing processes typically within 5 business days. Expedite processing is available for an additional fee, based on machine capacity and availability.
WHAT SIZE PARTS CAN BE FINISHED VIA CBF?
The size of parts which can be finished via CBF is only limited to the size of equipment available. ISO Finishing has more than 15 high-energy CBF machines in a variety of sizes to process parts as small as 3mm3 or as large as 8” x 8” x 24”.
The best way to show you first-hand how our finish will become your finish is to process your sample. Fill out our sample request form or give us a call and we will create a tailor-made surface finishing solution that is documented, repeatable and will meet the strictest requirements.
LET’S GET IT FINISHED.
