The Right Deburring Media And System

Deburring media are materials which are combined with the parts to be deburred. They are actually part of the deburring process. Some examples include ceramics preformed shape, carbon steel shot, stainless steel shot, walnut shells, plastic preformed shape, silicon carbide, etc. Deburring media primarily require a system. It is very important that you choose the appropriate system for the deburring job. Such systems include sandblasting systems, vibratory finishing systems and barrel tumbling systems.

Sandblasting is effective in removing small burrs. It actually displaces abrasives at the areas through high-pressure air stream. It can reach into confined parts and then produce an even finish. The end results are often characterized with from a dull satin (using abrasives) to a bright satin (using glass beads). However, this system cannot be used on heavy burrs. Most of these burrs are too think to break or bend even with a pencil or fingernail.

In vibratory finishing system, parts and deburring media are shaken together at a particular high speed. This will allow the media to come contact with the parts or materials to be deburred. The media will rub and scrub the surface in a lapping action. Since both the media and parts are moving at minimal increments on every stroke, the materials or parts are not damaged or put under severe stress. The finish for this process is a very smooth surface. Such system is safe for fragile or delicate parts. That is why it is favored for general deburring or finishing. Also, it is effective for smoothing heavy and tough burrs.

Parts are either self-tumbled or tumbled with media in barrel tumbling system. This is an aggressive method used for heavy cutting with abrasives. It can also produce a certain shine with polishing media. The tumbling action intend to target round corners and edges. It is the most effective system for heavy burrs.

Take note that materials and parts vary with their compositions, sizes and shapes. They require specific system for deburring.