Rusty Components? Try Vibratory Finishing!

Vibratory finishing services are something we are proud to be able to offer here at Stephens Gaskets. As a leading manufacturer of precision machined components, we naturally work with hundreds of different materials. With this in mind, we know the impact that certain environments/applications/substances can have on materials. In addition, we know that rust in particular, can be a major problem to contend with, when it comes to the maintenance of components. Therefore, we wanted to explain the vibratory finishing process and how it works.

If you have ever had to discard some components or parts due to rust, you will know the frustration of having to waste an otherwise perfectly good part. However, vibratory finishing can help restore rusting components back to their original state, which is highly beneficial. In addition, it can save you plenty of money in the long run. 

Related: 0.2mm stainless steel sheet; that’s what we call precision!

Vibratory finishing offers many advantages such as: 

  • Fast turnaround time
  • Uniformity 
  • Cost-effectiveness
  • Versatile and can handle both small and large parts

Rusting Components

If you are a parts manufacturer, the pressure is almost all on you to deliver strong components that are corrosion free. If something is delivered that doesn’t meet these standards and has rust on the surface, you may have to scrap and start again. All at your own expense. Unfortunately, there are certain metals that are susceptible to corrosion, particularly the ones that contain iron or steel. When left exposed to the air, moisture and oxygen can cause a layer of rust to start forming in no time. In these sorts of situations, the longer the part is exposed to air, the quicker oxidation will occur. This is especially true for humid environments. 

Rust Removal 

If your components have begun to form rust on them, fear not, because there is a solution: vibratory finishing services. The vibratory finishing process is relatively simple, although it relies on plenty of high quality resources. Furthermore, it is perfect for smoothing out metal surfaces and removing burrs or sharp edges. It is often used to improve the safety and performance of a component. However, vibratory finishing is increasingly being used to remove rust from manufactured parts and components. Due to the fact that it is a mass finishing process, vibratory finishing services are highly cost-effective if you are looking to improve large volumes of parts. 

Vibratory Finishing Process | How Does It Work?

The vibratory finishing process, works by placing cleaning components, specific-shaped media, and rust removal compounds into a bowl. This forms a large part of the vibratory finishing machine. Once the components are added into the bowl too, the machine can then begin its operation. 

During the process, the machine and the contents inside the bowl vibrate at an accelerated rate. This fast vibratory action causes everything inside the bowl to swirl around in a corkscrew form. Often the vibrations are between 900 and 3600 per minute. Therefore, as a result of this movement, the finishing media rubs against the parts that need finishing. Consequently, causing their surfaces to be cleaned of dirt, oil, and rust. With the right media selection, you can achieve a smooth and rust-free finish on large batches of components with a fast turnaround time.

Find Out More About Vibratory Finishing Process | Contact Us Today 

If you are looking for vibratory finishing services then here at Stephens Gaskets, we can help. Explore our website for more information or call 0121 544 5808 for more information.

 

If you have found this blog helpful, then you may wish to read our previous blog on Using Stainless Steel Spring Strip For Washers.