Diagrams showing progressive removal of metal by electropolishing to provide an even surface profile.

Mechanical Polishing Procedures

CleanFLOW^TM valves use a mechanical polishing technique that utilizes multiple passes with progressively finer grits to produce the required standard finish. The parts are either hand held during the process or fixtured for spinning on polishing lathes or die grinders. Aluminum Oxide and Silicone Carbide are used for the coated abrasive grit. Buffing compounds are not used in our polishing process. After inspection, to ensure proper finish requirements are achieved, valve parts are ready to be either cleaned or electro polished before final assembly.

Electro Polishing

Electro polishing is the opposite of the plating process. It utilizes a combination of electric current and chemicals to remove surface material rather then add to it. It is the most effective method of removing burr, folds, inclusions and other abnormalities. Peaks are removed quicker than valleys because of the concentration of current on the peaks. This process leaves the surface extremely smooth and is far easier to clean by reducing the total area required to be sterilized. This electrolytic process is frequently specified because of the broad range of inherent benefits over mechanical polishing alone.

Electro Polishing Benefits

* Enhances Cleanability.
* Passivates surface for greater corrosion resistance.
* Removes inclusions and entrapped contaminants such as lubricants and grit particles.
* Leaves surface with highly reflective luster finish.
* Eliminates smeared or torn surface caused by machining or abrasives.

home