Some Case Studies — Edge and surface finishing for improved performance and fatigue failure resistance: The technical literature is replete with examples of case studies indicating that substantial fatigue resistance can be developed with mass finishing methods such as barrel finishing. One study published by Iron Age magazine back in 1959 documented studies on the compressive stresses to be developed with various types of abrasive and non-abrasive media in tumbling barrels. Some processes are especially well known for this characteristic. Steel media or ball burnishing processes using vibratory techniques are known not only for producing aesthetically pleasing surfaces, but also enhancing service life of components because of the bulk-density of the media itself (300 lb./ft3 as compared to 80 to 100 lb./cu. Ft3 with typical abrasive ceramic media types). Some promising research has been done by major aerospace companies that indicate large air frame components can be processed to enhance fatigue life, and that fatigue life of components stressed or weakened in service can be improved during overhaul cycles as well. Continue reading When Surface Finish Really Counts – Some Centrifugal Isotropic Finishing Case Studies