Versatile Buffing Systems

Whether it is contact buffing or mush buffing, versatility is the key to success. Harper's buffing systems obtain and maintain superior results by regulating the contact time between part and wheel, buffing head RPM and part position. With years of experience in the process, Harper will select the optimum combination of consumables and hardware.

Consistent Results

In achieving a consistent finish, precise wheel pressure against the part is an integral component of the process. Using adjustable single-plane wheel wear compensation, Harper's smart machines automatically maintain constant pressure as the wheel diameter decreases.

Flexible

With its flexing and enveloping characteristics, mush buffing allows the wheel to follow edges and surfaces of complex parts-deburring, refining, and radiusing as it goes.

Problem	Inconsistent finish, high scrap rate
Solution	A 72-inch diameter indexing rotary table with seven power-driven work spindles and four buffing heads improved consistency and significantly lowered the scrap rate on 10 different pieces. The uniform surface is generated in preparation for the application of a non-reflective coating.
Problem	Eliminating patchwork finish
Solution	A PLC controlled buff head traverses the length of the pure aluminum pressure bonded surface. A high finish is achieved with a maximum material removal of fewer than 0.0007 inches. The high finish eliminates painting, lowers maintenance, reduces aircraft weight, and eliminates the patchwork type pattern associated with hand finishing.
Problem	Application of a uniform finish
Solution	Quick change rotating fixtures and PLC controlled compound application ensure a consistent, uniform finish. Two twelve-foot buffing heads maintain a production rate of 90 parts per hour. Several hand finishing operations are eliminated before clear coating or silver plating.
Problem	Achieving high finish
Solution	Three cut/color heads and one high-color head are used to achieve an RA finish of less than one micron. The process produces an entirely uniform surface, geometrically sound, with no pullout of the metal surface. There is no change in the metallurgical or physical characteristics of the metal.
Problem	Creating uniform radius in portholes
Solution	Using a combination of buffing heads, an RA of 1 to 2 microns is achieved while radiusing all port holes uniformly. Also, all machining and grinding lines are removed with no change in the part geometry. Capabilities include miniature precision valves to giant nuclear power plant valves.