What You Need to Know About Aluminum Deburring
Aluminum is used in some of the most sensitive fields, such as the aerospace and automotive industries. These require the highest level of precision to cut and fit. The final product has to be smooth and ready for use in critical components of airplanes and other vehicles. In addition to having the appropriate surface finish, proper welding and using the right alloy are critical.
Aluminum Deburring
Deburring is often necessary after cutting and machining aluminum, although the process can be frustrating and time-consuming. There are many deburring methods, but the best process will depend on the specific product you are manufacturing and the end results you need.
Things to Consider
The deburring process can be complex, meaning all factors need to be considered. Clearly understanding the desired end result is essential with aerospace parts. Knowing the location of burrs is equally as important. Edge burrs or burrs inside a drilled hole will require different methods of removal. The size and geometry of the part also matter.
Common Methods
There are four common methods of deburring, each with its pros and cons. Manual deburring is a widely used deburring application. It allows for deburring on specific areas of a part but can lead to inconsistencies due to operator variability and is a labor-intensive process. Robotic deburring is very accurate and precise but is expensive and time-consuming. Brush deburring, on the other hand, is efficient and effective. There are several health and safety concerns from the metal dust produced by this method. Bonded abrasive (or tumble) deburring allows for mass finishing of parts and can be efficient with minimal labor required.
Deburring
If you need assistance removing aluminum burrs, or are looking for a professional opinion on a project, our team is at your service. Kramer Industries gets it right from the start.