Why Quality Media and Compounds Matter in Vibratory Finishing
NORCHEM 80 – Great for Stainless steel and Aluminium for cleaning and polishing
When you’re aiming for top-quality results in vibratory finishing, the consumables you use can make just as much difference as the finishing equipment itself. At Sharmic Engineering, we supply a wide range of high-grade media and compounds designed to support and improve the finishing process. In this post, we’ll take a closer look at why choosing the right materials is key to achieving reliable and consistent outcomes.
Understanding Vibratory Media
Put simply, vibratory media refers to the materials used in the finishing process alongside the component being treated. These might be made from plastic, ceramic, or porcelain, each offering different benefits depending on the finish you’re after and the nature of the component. As the media moves within the machine, it interacts with the component, helping to smooth, deburr, degrease or polish their surfaces.
Selecting the appropriate media involves considering the shape, size, and material of the components involved. Ceramic tends to be favoured for heavier tasks like deburring metal, while plastic offers a gentler touch for more delicate items. The shape of the media also influences how it works—conical, spherical, or cylindrical forms each interact with components differently.
Why Media Selection Matters
Choosing the correct type of media ensures your process runs efficiently and achieves the desired result. A mismatch can lead to longer processing times or even damage to components. At Sharmic Engineering, we provide:
- Plastic Media – Gentle enough for fine polishing and sensitive components
- Ceramic Media – Suited for tough jobs involving robust materials
- Porcelain Media – Excellent for achieving smooth finishes
Each media type serves a purpose. Getting this choice right not only enhances surface quality but also extends the life of your equipment and consumables.
General purpose TC1 grade ceramic media, great for deburring and smoothing.
The Function of Finishing Compounds
Compounds play a vital supporting role in the vibratory process. They act as lubricants, reducing wear and tear on both the media and the workpieces. Additionally, they help keep the process clean and contribute to achieving a finer finish by minimising residue build-up.
These compounds come in various forms—liquid, paste, or powder—each suitable for different applications. Liquid compounds are a common go-to for general polishing tasks, while pastes might be chosen when a more reflective finish is required. Selecting the appropriate type is essential for consistent, quality results.
Selecting the Right Compound
The right compound depends on a few factors: what material you’re working on, the sort of finish you’re after, and whether you need additional properties like corrosion resistance. Compatibility with the chosen media is also crucial—some compounds pair more effectively with plastic media, while others work best with ceramic.
Bringing Media and Compounds Together
The real effectiveness of vibratory finishing comes when the media and compound complement each other. A well-matched pairing ensures improved performance, reduced cycle times, and a more uniform result across batches. At Sharmic Engineering, we help customers identify the right combinations for their specific needs, ensuring the process is both effective and cost-efficient.
In Summary
High-quality media and compounds are central to any successful vibratory finishing process. The right combination can dramatically improve results, reduce overall processing time, and extend the life of your machinery and consumables. With our experience and product range, Sharmic Engineering is here to support you in finding the best finishing solutions.
EUROPASTE 150 – Great for Polishing and Smoothing Brass, Copper and Steel
