Deburring is an essential step in the manufacturing of components. Removing unwanted burrs and edges not only improves the aesthetics of the Part, but also its function and service life. In the past, manual and machine processes were used for deburring, but in recent years sandblasting has gained popularity. Why? Let's take a closer look at the advantages of sandblasting for deburring.
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Deburring refers to the process of removing unwanted burrs or sharp edges from manufactured components. These burrs can occur as a result of manufacturing processes such as milling, drilling, turning, grinding or punching. Deburring is necessary not only for aesthetic reasons, but also to ensure the functionality of the Part and to meet safety standards.
Manual Deburring (traditionally with hand tools such as files, scrapers or brushes, is labor-intensive and poorly reproducible)
Machine Deburring (e.g. milling machines, grinding machines and special deburring machines)
Electrochemical deburring (ECM): (Part as anode and tool as cathode poled in an electrolyte solution, material is then selectively removed at the burrs).
Thermal deburring (TEM): (Combustion of burrs by igniting a gas mixture)
High-pressure water jetting: (Removal of burrs by water jet, or also abrasive materials which are added to the water for more efficiency)
Ultrasonic deburring: (with ultrasonic waves in a suitable medium)
Vibratory finishing (in a drum with abrasive media)
Laser Deburring: (Gratings are precisely vaporized or melted by laser, especially in the case of hard-to-reach gratings)
Sandblasting: (As previously mentioned, this process uses a jet of abrasive media e.g. glass beads, chilled cast iron, high grade corundum, nutshells and stainless steel to remove burrs and irregularities from the surface of a Part).
1. Consistent Results
A major advantage of sandblasting is its ability to achieve consistent results across the entire component. While manual methods can involve human error and mechanical methods may not reach all areas of a complex component, sandblasting ensures that every surface is treated evenly and the result is reproducible.
2. Speed and Efficiency
Time is money in manufacturing. Sandblasting enables fast and efficient deburring of large quantities of components in a short time. This saves not only time but also production costs, as fewer labor hours are required.
3. Versatility
Sandblasting can be applied to a variety of materials, from metals to plastics. This makes it a universal solution for a wide range of manufacturing requirements.
4. Abrasive blasting media
Traditional deburring methods can use chemicals or solvents that are harmful to the environment. Sandblasting, on the other hand, uses natural or reusable media such as sand, glass beads or nutshells, making it a more environmentally friendly option.
5. Reduced Tool Wear
Since sandblasting operates without direct contact, there is less tool wear compared to other deburring methods. This results in lower maintenance costs and a longer equipment lifespan.
6. Safety
Without sharp tools or aggressive chemicals, sandblasting is often a safer option for employees. Of course, protective measures such as respirators and goggles are still necessary, but the risk of injury is reduced compared to other processes.
In summary, sandblasting is an effective, efficient, and environmentally friendly method for deburring components. It offers numerous advantages over traditional deburring techniques and has proven to be a valuable tool in modern manufacturing. If you are looking for a reliable and effective method for deburring, you should consider sandblasting. ZELL Surface Technology is an expert in sandblasting and has been deburring components since 1991, with a self-developed machine park. ZELL has already won over well-known customers such as Bosch, Tesla and Hilti.
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