Abrasive flow machining: A review on new developed hybrid AFM process

Abstract

The abrasive flow machining technique uses a self-deforming tool, an abrasive laden media that is passed back and forth in the passage geometry of the hollow workpiece with the assistance of two hydraulically operated cylinders placed opposite to each other. The material is removed by abrasion generating finer surfaces in the area where flow is restricted. But this method has a low material removal rate. As the time advances, various variants of AFM have been developed by different researchers to increase the productivity and improve the surface finish. Thus a combination of AFM and its process variants were developed to increase material removal rate and surface finish. This article provides a comprehensive review of recent developments in the process variants of AFM and the respective media.