In the finishing industry, companies apply various approaches to achieve the goals required of them by their industry and their clients. Among the most common types if mass finishing. This is a form of barrel finishing. An effective type of barrel and mass or batch finishing is called vibratory finishing. It is similar to another common type of mass finishing called tumbler finishing but differs in significant ways.
What Is Vibratory Finishing?
Vibratory finishing is a method of treating several parts at once. As a type of barrel finishing, it uses a barrel-like structure to create its results. The proper equipment, media and compounds are employed to produce a part that meets the requirements of a uniform, smooth, aesthetically pleasing and sometimes polished surface. It is a finished component that is lacking in burrs and has been descaled. All sharp edges have been removed during the treatment.
What Distinguishes Vibratory Finishing?
As a form of barrel finishing, vibratory finishing employs a barrel-like object to contain the parts to be cleaned. However, there is a distinguishing characteristic that separates vibratory finishing from other forms of barrel finishing e.g. tumbler finishing. This is the finishing action. While many forms of barrel finishing tumble their objects in the container, allowing them to come into contact with each other, the vibratory method of barrel finishing does not.
With vibratory finishing, the components and media within the barrel are vibrated, hence the name. This controlled method sends them gyrating in the drum/barrel. This constant agitation forces the components to interact with the media sending everything scrambling. The media and parts interact to produce a scrubbing action. All parts are affected simultaneously. This treatment is one that is an excellent choice of those in search of a fine finish as the frequency, cycle speed and amplitudes are adjustable.
Why Choose Vibratory Finishing?
Many industries opt for vibratory finishing for several reasons. They range from its ability to address batches to its capability of providing a very uniform finish on all the components in a batch. The most common reasons why manufacturers choose vibratory finishing as a treatment method are:
* The smooth finish that results from the process
* Keeps the components cleaner
* Maintains a better color of the parts
* The cost-effectiveness of the treatment from mass finishing a product
* The ability to safely finish very fragile components
* Capability to process large parts
* The lack of distortion or tearing in the treatment resulting from both the vibrations used and the choice of media
* The ability to remove burrs and other surface abrasions
* Perform the process quickly – faster than most barrel finishing operations
Vibratory Finishing
If you are considering barrel finishing, look at the option of vibratory finishing. It offers a treatment that has proven to be effective in terms of productivity and costs. The results are also impressive and cost-effective. With its ability to handle both large and fragile components with equanimity, perhaps it is time for you to consider vibratory finishing for your finishing needs.
