If you are in the metal finishing industry, you’d definitely know all about tumble finishing and vibratory finishing. These two finishes are part of the bigger mass finishing. They are usually used to remove scale and rust removal. They are also used to deburr as well as for burnishing processes.

In this article, we’ll be looking at tumble finishing and vibratory finishing. We’ll also be explaining why the vibratory finishing system might be the right choice for you.

If this is a topic you’re interested in, you should probably stick around.

The differences between tumble and vibratory finishing

The very first difference between most terms can be seen in their definition. The vibratory finishing system consists of media, parts, and compounds. These items are placed into a tub or bowl that is vibratory in nature.

These parts then grind together which in turn helps to polish various parts. The tumble finishing refers to the placing of parts along with a barrel. The parts are joined by abrasive media and other forms of compounds. The barrel then rotates which helps in creating friction.

This friction combined with other movements helps to perfect the deburring action of the surfaces of the parts.

How the vibratory finishing system beats the tumbling finishing

In the world today, the vibratory finishing system seems to be more favored than the tumbling finishing. One of the main reasons for this is because of its compatibility. It is compatible with automation processes.

This makes it easy to work. That’s not all. It also helps to reduce costs and labor. This helps to save money in the long run.

When dealing with parts that are delicate or large, the vibratory finishing system is also the preferred type. Its tolerance levels are well suited to this form of finished.

Vibratory finishing is also liked because of the ability to provide a smoother finish. This is done without the usual wear and tear that might result.

The production of a smoother finish is important as it helps to make the product and parts more durable.

The Argument for the tumbling finishing

The argument for tumbling finishing is quite clear. They are simpler than the vibratory finishes. This makes them cheaper to get. The tumbling finishing is the best finishing to get when you are on a budget.

The downside of being simpler means that you are going to take a longer time to actually finish. Also, your parts face the risk of being indentations.

How do I know which finishing to get?

If you are still confused about how to approach your mass finishing, then it might be time to actually see an expert on the finishing system. You would get a complete explanation of how each finishing system works.

Verdict

So which vibratory system should you use? To us, we feel that the vibratory system should be your first choice. However, if you are on a budget, then you might find it easier to actually use the tumbling finishing.

The truth is no matter which finishing you choose, make sure that you are making an informed choice.