Modeling of material removal and surface roughness in abrasive flow machining process

Abstract

Abrasive flow machining process provides a high level of surface finish and close tolerances with an economically acceptable rate of surface generation for a wide range of industrial components. This paper deals with the theoretical investigations into the mechanism of abrasive flow machining (AFM) process. A finite element model is developed for the flow of media during AFM and the same is used to evaluate the stresses and forces developed during the process. Theoretical analysis to estimate the material removal and surface roughness obtained during AFM is also proposed. The theoretical results are compared with the experimental data available in the literature, and they are found to agree well.