Effect of process parameters on the rate of abrasive assisted brush deburring of microgrooves

Burrs in micromilled parts need to be removed for proper functioning of the parts. Abrasive assisted brushing presents a fast and effective method for deburring these parts. The deburring rate in abrasive brushing depends on the workpiece material, abrasive grit size, type and rotational speed of the brush. In this paper the effects of these variables on the rate of deburring micromilled grooves in copper and tool steel workpieces are studied experimentally. It is found that the burr removal rate is proportional to the initial burr height and deburring speed. An empirical model derived from the experimental data is used to predict the deburring time. Groove depth change after deburring is less than 8 μm and surface roughness improves by about 100 nm in all cases studied.

► Brush deburring applied to micromilled grooves in copper and tool steel.
► Deburring rate increases with initial burr height and speed.
► Groove depth change is less than 8 μm in all cases.
► Surface finish improves by about 100 nm in all cases.
► Regression model for deburring rate developed and verified.