Superfinishing – The Art of Perfecting Surfaces

Superfinishing, also known as microfinishing, is a critical final machining process that enhances the surface quality of parts to achieve near-perfect smoothness and precision. At Advanced Abrasives Corporation, we understand the importance of this process across various industries, including automotive, aerospace, medical, and more. Our top-quality abrasive Superfinishing products — led by our Lapping Film — ensure that your components have the best possible surface finish, extending their life and improving their performance.

The superfinishing process is highly specialized and is typically performed by skilled technicians using advanced machinery. The process involves controlled and precise reciprocating motion of the abrasive tool along the part’s surface. During superfinishing, the part’s surface is continually wet with a lubricating fluid that helps protect the surface from damage and reduce friction. This lubrication also helps to carry away any debris or residue that is generated during the process.

Superfinishing is used in various applications, including finishing engine components, bearings, gears, and other precision components. The resulting surface finish is uniform and consistent, and the process is capable of achieving extremely tight tolerances, as low as 0.025 microns.

A Range of Abrasive Products to Assist in Superfinishing Processes

Abrasive lapping films use a precise layer of abrasive particles that are uniformly dispersed into a resin layer, providing a consistent surface throughout the polishing process. This film is usually backed with high-strength polyester to allow pressure application for uniform distribution of abrasive particles over the workpiece.

On the other hand, abrasive microfinishing films are manufactured using precisely sized abrasive particles embedded in a rigid polyester base. These films deliver a range of finishes from rough to mirror-like surfaces. The films are available in various grit sizes, with each grit size targeting specific surface finishes that are consistent and repeatable.

The final result of using abrasive lapping films and abrasive microfinishing films is a superfinished surface with high levels of accuracy and comparable smoothness. Superfinishing is essential in the creation of parts for use in the aerospace, automotive, medical, and defense industries, among others.

Both abrasive lapping films and abrasive microfinishing films are valuable tools in superfinishing applications. They provide consistent, precise, and high-quality finishes, enabling businesses to produce high-precision components with exceptionally smooth surfaces. Consequently, businesses can reduce production costs while increasing their products’ quality.

Diamond Superfinishing Lapping Film

Our diamond superfinishing lapping films are crafted for those who demand the best level of precision and efficiency. Engineered with premium diamond particles uniformly coated on a high-strength polyester backing, these films offer exceptional cutting action and longevity. Suitable for the toughest materials, including ceramics, carbides, and hardened metals, our diamond films deliver a superior finish.

We provide these films in various formats to suit specific application needs, including rolls, belts, ribbons, sheets, and discs. Each option is designed to deliver precision grinding and polishing across diverse operations, ensuring you have the right tool for every scenario.

Applications: Ideal for applications requiring extreme accuracy and a mirror-like finish, our diamond films are used in industries with tight tolerances and high stakes.

Aluminum Oxide Superfinishing Lapping Film

Aluminum Oxide superfinishing lapping films are recognized for their versatility and excellence in achieving fine finishes on softer materials. The aluminum oxide particles offer a fast cut-rate and a consistent finish, making this the preferred choice for precision work on ferrous and non-ferrous metals, as well as other softer materials.

To accommodate various machinery and finishing techniques, we offer aluminum oxide films in rolls, belts, ribbons, sheets, and discs.

Applications: Frequently utilized in the precision machining and tooling industries, our aluminum oxide films aid in producing a smooth, uniform finish that enhances the performance and appearance of the final product.

Silicon Carbide Superfinishing Lapping Film

Silicon Carbide superfinishing lapping films are distinguished by their fast material removal rates and the ability to produce a smooth finish on hard and brittle materials. The sharp, hard silicon carbide grains cut quickly, efficiently, and accurately, an excellent material for both dry and wet processes.

Applications: These films are particularly effective in electronic and optical industries for the finishing of components such as semiconductor wafers, optical fibers, and lenses, where precision is a major part of what is required.

Cerium Oxide Superfinishing Lapping Film

Cerium Oxide superfinishing lapping films are specially formulated for the final polishing phase, particularly on glass and optical components. Known for its high efficacy in polishing hard materials, cerium oxide delivers a supreme finish with minimal subsurface damage. To ensure comprehensive coverage of various polishing needs, we supply cerium oxide films in various forms. These formats are compatible with many different types of equipment, from hand tools to fully automated systems, providing flexibility for your industry needs.

Applications: Particularly favored in the optics industry, our cerium oxide films are instrumental in achieving the high degree of clarity and defect-free surfaces required in precision optical components, including lenses and mirrors.

Let Advanced Abrasives Provide the Superfinishing Products You Need

Advanced Abrasives Corporation is your one-stop shop for all your superfinishing needs. With our comprehensive range of abrasive products, extensive industry experience, unwavering commitment to quality, and customer-centric approach, we ensure your surfaces are not just finished but perfected. Contact us today to learn more about our superfinishing solutions or additional products like our diamond compounds and paste or superabrasive powders.