Wednesday, June 25, 2014

Choosing Abrasive Brushes

Abrasive brushes are non-oxidizing. So, there is no reaction with the metal. They are safer to use and fast working. These brushes do not load.

Unlike the wire brushes where all work is done by the filament tips, abrasive brushes use both the sides as well as the tips of the filament for doing the work. Their filaments are flexible conforming to part geometry. Users can change the cutting properties by changing the grits.

They can be run dry or wet. But a few conditions may need the use of a coolant if it’s put under stress resulting in heat. When these brushes are exposed to too much of heat, they result in smearing of the filament. They are best for automated processes and are a perfect finishing and deburring tool.

Unlike the wire brushes, the rule to run abrasive nylon brushes is at a slower speed. Maximum RPM isn’t the perfect speed for abrasive brushes. So, always try staying below 3,5000 SFPM.  Since an abrasive nylon brush has the ability to cut on all the surfaces, it’s best to let the part to have complete penetration of the brush.

The shorter will be the trim length, more extreme will the brushing action be. Select brushes that have a longer trim length if you want a brush, which will follow contours of work piece.

Abrasives must be chosen based on the material you work with. Try silicon carbide for cast iron. Silicon Carbide is a common abrasive type and is very reasonable. Use Aluminium Oxide for titanium, stainless steel or aluminium. If you want to get a finish with more shine, AO is best. Aluminium Oxide abrasives are often used with valuable and soft metals.

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