Isotropic Superfinishing
The surface finish of gear teeth is directly related to the service life and
overall quality of aerospace gearing. For this reason, Arrow has added the
capability of Isotropic Superfinishing.
To achieve an optimal surface finish on gear teeth, grinding of the gear
teeth has historically been the chosen manufacturing process. However, as
the demands of aerospace systems become more advanced, the process of
superfinishing has become a more common specification.
With tooth grinding, the resulting gear tooth finish is typically 16 RA, or
micro inches. With the superfinishing process, surface finish can be reduced
to as little as 2 RA. This substantial reduction has a direct benefit on the
life of the gear. According to NASA, this type of surface finish reduction
can increase the life of the gear up to 300% through the reduction of
friction and subsequent wear on the gear teeth.
One
of Arrow's systems features an extra large capacity and can accommodate 25
inch diameter parts and shafts with lengths of 50 inches. This size
capability is relatively rare in the gear manufacturing industry.
The superfinishing process is performed by placing parts in a bin which
contains a mix of ceramic and plastic media of different sizes and shapes. A
vibratory action is then used to complete the process.
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