Superfinishing

In superfinishing, an abrasive stone, shaped to the contour of the workpiece, removes surface fragmentation or smeared metal from previous finishing processes.  Superfinishing uses very low pressure and speeds to produce a controlled low stress surface finish. 

Process Characteristics

Involves no appreciable production of heat to alter metallurgical properties
Produces a controlled surface finish, typically less than 8 microinches (arithmetic average)
Utilizes low speeds (50 to 60 sfpm) and low pressures (10 to 40 psi)
Requires the use of lubricants
Removes only a thin layer of smear metal, usually less than 0.0005 in.

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Information provided is from Manufacturing Processes Reference Guide by Robert H. Todd, Dell K. Allen, and Leo Alting.--1st ed. Published by Industrial Press Inc., 1994.