Understanding Plastic Media in Vibratory Surface Finishing
UF general purpose plastic abrasive media
In the field of vibratory surface finishing, the choice of media plays a pivotal role in achieving the desired finish, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness of a process. Among the range of media available, plastic media stands out for its versatility, gentler cutting action, and suitability for processing softer metals and delicate components.
What is Plastic Media?
Plastic media is a synthetic abrasive material used in vibratory finishing applications. It is typically manufactured from a polyester resin base, combined with abrasive materials such as aluminium oxide or silica. These media are moulded into a variety of shapes including cones, pyramids, cylinders, wedges, and tri-stars to accommodate the specific requirements of different component geometries.
Applications and Advantages
Plastic media is widely utilised across various industries, including aerospace, automotive, medical, and general engineering. Its primary applications include:
- Deburring: Removing light burrs from aluminium, brass, zinc, and other softer metals without damaging the workpiece.
- Descaling: Eliminating oxidation or heat scale following thermal or machining processes.
- Pre-paint or pre-plate preparation: Providing a smooth, even surface for subsequent coating or plating processes.
- Surface refinement: Achieving a uniform surface finish, particularly important for cosmetic or functional purposes.
Some of the key advantages of plastic media include:
- Gentle abrasive action: Ideal for components that are susceptible to dimensional changes or surface damage.
- Low impingement: Reduces the risk of pitting or distortion on soft or thin-walled components.
- Lightweight: Produces lower energy impact, resulting in a smoother, more controlled finish.
- Consistent results: Moulded to tight specifications to ensure process repeatability and quality control.
Media Grades and Cutting Ability
Plastic media is available in various grades, each defined by the type and concentration of abrasive used, as well as the resin hardness. These factors determine the cutting rate, ranging from fast-cutting grades for more aggressive material removal to fine grades used for polishing or smoothing operations.
Choosing the correct grade is essential to balance process time, surface finish requirements, and the integrity of the component. A thorough understanding of the application and material is crucial when selecting the appropriate media.
PH1 Fine, light removal plastic abrasive media
Compatibility with Equipment
Plastic media is compatible with a wide range of vibratory finishing equipment, including vibratory bowl machines, vibratory troughs, centrifugal finishing machines, and rotary barrels. When used in combination with suitable finishing compounds, plastic media can effectively remove contaminants and improve the surface appearance of a variety of components.
Considerations in Usage
When using plastic media, it is important to monitor:
- Media wear: Over time, plastic media breaks down and must be replaced to maintain process consistency.
- Component geometry: Intricate parts may require smaller or specially shaped media to reach all surfaces.
- Effluent control: As with all mass finishing processes, the disposal of spent compound and media residue should comply with environmental regulations.
Plastic media offers an effective and efficient solution for a broad spectrum of vibratory finishing needs. Its gentle yet precise action makes it an indispensable choice for industries where surface integrity is paramount. When paired with the right machinery and compounds, it helps manufacturers achieve high-quality finishes, reduce manual labour, and enhance productivity.
For businesses looking to explore the benefits of plastic media, working with a specialist provider such as Sharmic Engineering ensures expert guidance, high-quality consumables, and access to both equipment and subcontract finishing services.
P67 general purpose cutting plastic media
