Deburring is an essential part of the metal and steel fabrication process. The correct tools can help to smooth out any rough edges or ridges produced during the manufacturing process in metal fabrication to ensure the part is prepped correctly to improve its functionality and that it is safe to handle.
As well as deburring, edge breaking and chamfering also form part of the process for finishing machined parts. Edge breaking removes sharp edges and corners to make the component tactile and safe. Deburring and surface preparation also helps the paint adhere to the area better and has a more consistent paint finish. Chamfering involves removing the sharp corner to a required angle, usually specified within engineering drawings.
In this article we will cover:
Types of Burrs
There are various factors to consider when choosing what deburring method meets your requirements:
- Work material
- How tall and thick the burr is
- The edge radius
- Stock loss and surface finish
- Required finish
When working with thinner steel, using a cutting disc is likely to result in light burrs, whereas employing a laser or guillotine on the component may lead to medium burrs and a slight curvature on the edge. However, if you opt for a grinding disc or a more aggressive technique like plasma cutting, you can expect heavy burrs to remain on the component.
A good deburring tool is essential to any toolbox and will save you time and money in the long run. Deburring tools can be used on plastic, nylon, copper, wood, mild steel, mild cast iron and aluminium.
A traditional deburring tool is appropriate for smaller areas and lighter burrs on softer materials. However, when dealing with larger-scale projects involving heavy burrs and rigid materials, our Norton tools with an angle grinder or other power tools offer enhanced efficiency and speed.
The Norton range for deburring will quickly and easily achieve radius bevelling on metal projects and remove surface defects whilst resisting clogging on soft materials. You can choose from various grades to cater for lighter to heavier deburring.
Using a Right Angle Grinder (RAG)
The angle grinder is the most versatile machine and a workshop staple. It is a vital tool for the deburring process. It can replace numerous tools and make the most tedious, labour-intensive jobs quicker and easier.
Choosing the correct disc to use with your angle grinder is important when deburring different materials.
Stainless Steel
As the sheet of stainless steel increases in thickness, the size of the burr tends to grow larger. To effectively eliminate heavy burrs on stainless steel, we highly recommend utilising the Quantum3 Inox grinding disc. This disc incorporates self-sharpening ceramic grain technology, enabling swift material removal within a shorter timeframe. Moreover, its extended wheel life reduces downtime and waste, requiring fewer wheel replacements. Additionally, this disc offers a more comfortable user experience, alleviating hand fatigue as an added advantage.
When dealing with medium burrs, we suggest utilising the Vortex Rapid Blend non-woven disc. This disc features a tight and unitised construction designed to resist loading during the deburring process.
For lighter burrs, it is recommended to use Rapid Blend discs at a slower pace, applying minimal pressure by simply utilising the weight of the angle grinder.
Carbon Steel
To tackle medium burrs on carbon steel, opt for a medium-grade flap disc, such as the X-Treme R860 in 60 grit. Flap discs are known for their faster cutting speed and superior finishing results compared to fibre discs. Additionally, the flap construction of these discs contributes to their extended lifespan, offering the added advantage of durability.
When deburring light burrs on carbon steel, try Vortex Rapid Prep flap discs which are ideal for tricky corners and edges.
Aluminium and Non-ferrous Materials
For heavy burrs on aluminium and non-ferrous materials, Blaze X fibre discs are ideal for a coarse surface finish and low stock removal.
When deburring medium burrs on aluminium and non-ferrous metals, the Blaze Rapid Strip non-woven discs leave a thoroughly cleaned surface that ensures excellent adhesion for subsequent processes, such as coating.
For light deburring on aluminium, Beartex High Strength discs are ideal for following contours and awkward profiles easily due to the high strength nylon. Its open structure prevents loading when deburring and is tough enough to resist tearing on burrs and sharp edges.
Alternatively, wire brushes are suitable on flat areas on soft materials as they do not load.
Using Die-Grinders
Instead of using an angle grinder, a handheld Die Grinder is an alternative tool that can be used with flap wheels and carbide burrs for deburring in hard-to-reach areas or smaller components which the angle grinder is too powerful or too large to access. Their versatility makes them ideal for all fabricators, from welders to sheet metal workers, especially when precision is needed.
Stainless Steel and Carbon Steel
Spindle-mounted flap wheels, such as Quantum, are ideal when used with a die grinder for deburring on stainless steel and carbon steel. They can conform to intricate shapes and contours and are easy to operate as they do not require adjustments, dressing or preparation before or during the operation. Norton flap wheels are more forgiving than other abrasives, reducing the risk of flattening, gouging or surface deformation, meaning fewer rejected parts and better long-term productivity.
For heavy burrs on stainless steel and carbon steel, use mounted points or carbide burrs, such as Inox cut style, on a die-grinder.
Start the burr off slowly with only a little pressure and increase the pressure as you go, as the speed will differ depending on the pressure you apply.
Aluminium and Non-Ferrous Materials
X-Treme spindle mounted flap wheel uses hard silicon carbide grain and is ideal for weld removal on copper, titanium, bronze, brass, non-ferrous materials, stone, glass and plastic.
The unique aluminium style carbide burr is suitable for deburring of aluminium alloys and plastic wide tooth formation.
Deburring is just one part of the right angle grinder (RAG) process, you can read more on the other stages - cutting off and grinding, scale removal and stock removal.
Contact us or speak with your local sales representative for more information about Norton RAG products.