Development of an abrasive jet machining system assisted by two fluidized beds for internal polishing of circular tubes

This paper deals with the definition of a relatively novel machining technology to finish the internal part of narrow and long tubular parts made from high resistance stainless steel. A hybrid technology, namely, fluidized bed assisted abrasive jet machining (FB-AJM), was developed and a thorough experimental investigation was concurrently performed. First, a systematic approach, based upon design of experiments, was used to examine the influence of leading operative variables on process. Surface roughness and material removal trends consistent with theoretical expectations were found. Subsequently, the machining mechanisms were analyzed in terms of the evolution of roughness and waviness profile. FB-AJM was found to be a not pressure-copying machining technology. Lastly, the uniformity and the precision of machining all around the internal circumferences of the workpieces were checked out to assure the applicability of FB-AJM to process an ever-growing variety of complex shaped components. © 2005 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.