Vibropeening technology produces stronger surfaces

The future goal of metallurgy is to alter the mechanical properties of metals to produce lighter, stronger, break- and failure-resistant parts. Traditionally, this has been done with nitriding, shot peening and heat-treating methods. But Vibra Finish, a production finishing company based in Mississauga, Ont., is developing the technology to help meet this goal. 

Vibra-Max Surfacing Technology is a machine and process developed by Vibra Finish to produce a tougher, harder surface than most other methods. 

“Almost all fatigue, failure and cracking begins at or near the surface of parts,” the company explains. “Present methods of treatment convert the undesirable tensile stress produced by forming and machining into surface compressive stresses. Small surface imperfections and cracks are peened over to reduce their effects.”

But the Vibra-Max process takes a different approach. It produces repeatable uniform compressive stresses, thereby greatly reducing crack initiation and propagation in metal parts. This in turn leads to significantly improved part life. One of the additional key features is the reduction in surface finish roughness not obtainable in the traditional finishing method. Surface roughness can contribute to the formation of cracks due to discontinuity in the surface. Smoother surfaces also improve the load-bearing capability and reduce the destructive frictional forces. Corrosion effects are also reduced since dirt does not accumulate as easily.

The ”green” Vibra-Max utilizes a unique dual shaft drive configuration to deliver the vibration in a controlled manner into the selected media, and is operated with a state-of-the-art control system. Vibra-Max is intended to extend a part's life cycle and improve load-bearing properties while reducing costly maintenance, breakdowns and warranty claims. 

The systems are custom designed to suit the customer’s application. Machine size is dependent on part size. 

For more information on Vibra-Max Surfacing Technology and what it can do for your application, contact Vibra Finish. 

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