Cryogenic deflashing

Cryogenic deflashing is a process used to remove excess flash from molded parts made of plastics, polymers, nylons, rubbers, silicones, polyurethane, neoprene, liquid crystal polymer, urethane, viton, nitrile, butyl, DAP, ABS, PEEK, aluminum zinc die cast, and precision elastomeric parts.[1]

Depending on the molded material and the size of the part, a program is then set up and entered into a computer program to operate each process. Every cycle takes into account variables such as throw wheel speed, basket speed, temperature, and time. The parts are then placed into a chamber, exposed to sub-zero temperatures (achieved with the use of liquid nitrogen) and then tumbled and blasted with a cryogenic-grade polycarbonate media. Due to the fact that the burrs have a high surface area relative to their mass, they “freeze” very quickly and become brittle. The tumbling action—combined with the impact of the media—removes the burrs without damaging the part itself.[2]

Cryogenic deflashing is needed by industrial customers who are either using molds close to their end of life or who are using a material that naturally flashes when molded (i.e. silicone).

The benefits of cryogenic deflashing include its cost-effectiveness when compared to hand-deflashing, repeatable results, the use of non-abrasive media which will not destroy the structural integrity of the molded parts, and the principle that it is eco-friendly.[3]

References

• Cryogenic Institute of New England, Inc. [4]
• Little, Edward (2005, April) Cryogenic tech offers a clean, efficient approach to deburring and deflashing of metal and plastic parts. PF Online, A Cool Technology. Retrieved from http://www.pfonline.com/articles/040502.html