In order to completely deburr the profile, the operator must present it in such a way asto allow the abrasive to strike and wipe against each inside and outside dimensional edge. This necessitates repositioning the part and varying the angle of presentation.As this entire process is dependent onoperator skill, inconsistent finishing is often the result. Variables such as depth of penetration, dwell time, and angle of attack are all uncontrolled. Furthermore, because this is generally a high volume process, operators are subjected to prolonged repetitive motion.

In 1980, a process was developed to improve the operation of end deburring aluminumextrusions. Using abrasive nylon filaments formatted into a disc brushing tool, a deburring system was developed. FIBER ABRASIVES The term “fiber abrasive” is used to describe an abrasive nylon filament. Developedapproximately 25 years ago, they have been used in brush form for a variety of industrial applications. These generally involve deburring, edge radiusing and surface finishing. The filament is composed of heat stabilized nylon which has been coextruded with a mineral abrasive grit. The grit is impregnated throughout the filament as well as exposed on the external surfaces as shown in Figure 2. As the filament is applied to the work piece andbegins to wear, new abrasive grit is exposed. The filament is, in effect, self sharpening. Abrasive action occurs on both the tip and the sides of the filament. Slower R.P.M.’s are employed to allow the fiber to strike and wipe against the surface. This, combined with the flexibility of the fibers, makes it ideal for finishing irregularly shaped objects.