Polishing aluminum in machine

[aandabooks]

Hello,

Looking for a solution for polishing aluminum parts in machine. Primarily I run 6061 bar stock for the parts that I make. Since most is through hole or reasonable tolerances I don't face mill before machining. I worked for a company that experimented with some brushes on cast aluminum parts with mixed results.

I would like to be able to run a brush/polisher at the end of the program and then flip to do the other side. What are some solutions that I can look at for reasonable speeds and effectiveness?

 

[BT Fabrication]

electropolishing?
acid polish?
in the machine polishing I wouldn't really want to do.

 

[aandabooks]

electropolishing?
acid polish?
in the machine polishing I wouldn't really want to do.

I'm thinking something more like just a nylon, steel, brash brush to run that would leave a better finish on the aluminum before I send for anodizing.

 

[eKretz]

Probably don't want to do that if there are holes. It'll roll the edges over. Unless you do the polishing first.

 

[EmGo]

I would like to be able to run a brush/polisher at the end of the program and then flip to do the other side. What are some solutions that I can look at for reasonable speeds and effectiveness?

There's a Japanese place that claims their brushes are super-special effective. I've seen them at shows but hey, everything works perfect at shows. Anyway, US site here

Xebec Tech | Clark & Osborne

Ceramic Deburing and Metal Finishing Tools

www.clarkandosborne.com

if you try some, then it'd be nice to report back ?

 

[F35Machinist]

Facing with a MCD tool will result in a mirror finish in aluminum. That is probably overkill if you are anodizing after and you would probably get away with just facing the part with PCD or polished carbide inserts.