The use of ultrasonic cavitation peening to improve micro-burr-free surfaces

Advances in machining technology, particularly in the field of micro-machining, have led to the design and creation of miniature components suitable for use in the precision engineering industry. However, the need to contain ubiquitous burrs still exists and has to be addressed. Previous studies on deburring have mostly focused on the parametric investigations of orientation, temperature, type of liquid media and abrasives, frequency, deburring time and power. It is hypothesized that by inducing compressive residual stresses on a pre-machined workpiece surface, the resulting burrs caused by machining can be minimized or even eliminated. The paper presents the findings of an investigative study into the possibility of inducing compressive residual stresses on machined surfaces by the use of ultrasonic cavitation, with the aim of reducing or eliminating burr formation. The paper also briefly reviews the development of ultrasonic cavitation and covers published work on deburring by ultrasonic cavitation. Experimental results are presented on the performance of ultrasonic cavitation peening on the residual stress in Stavax stainless steels and on micro-burr formation.