THIS paper presents a comprehensive discussion of the history, theory and practical application of Superfinish and its development at the Chrysler Corp.
In the application of the process to wearing parts the following advantages are claimed: reduction of friction, reduction of wear, quiet operation, improved lubrication, increased bearing load capacity, and improved appearance. The author explains that Superfinish can be produced upon any shape of surface in a minimum amount of time. After defining the surface-finish nomenclature used in his paper, Mr. Wallace describes the various methods and equipment employed to measure it and specify it.
The various methods of surface finishing are reviewed and compared, including turned finish, ground finish, sandpaper finish, burnished finish, honed surface, lapped surface, and Superfinished surface. The low abrasive speed, light tool pressure, low surface temperature, “multimotion,” and short finishing time of Superfinish, compared with the other methods, are emphasized.
The latter part of the paper deals at length with the metallurgy of surface finish, and the relation of surface finish to lubrication. Data and test results are given to show that smooth surface aids lubrication.
In conclusion, various production Superfinishing machines are described and illustrated.