Abrasive Flow Machining

Abrasive flow machining (AFM) finishes surfaces and edges by extruding viscous abrasive media through or across the workpiece. This article commences with a schematic illustration of the AFM process that uses two opposed cylinders to extrude semisolid abrasive media back and forth through the passages formed by the workpiece and tooling. It discusses the major elements of an AFM system, such as machine, tooling, and abrasive media. The article provides information on polishing, radiusing, edge finishing, and surface finishing capabilities of the AFM. It concludes with information on the various applications of the AFM process.