Compound is for cleaning the abrasive media and the surface of workpieces to improve the finishing efficiency.
The main component of compounds is surfactants that are also contained in household detergents, and rust inhibitors, cleaning auxiliaries and other components also are mixed in.
Compounds come in liquid or powder form, and are used in rough finishing, medium finishing and luster finishing applications depending on the finishing purpose.
5 Functions of Compound
①Water Softening Function
Insoluble lime salts (e.g. calcium and magnesium components) contained in water cover the abrasive media and surface of workpieces to lower finishing efficiency. Compound functions to prevent that from occurring.
②Cleaning Function
Compound remove dirt from abrasive media and workpieces and keep them clean.
③Shock Absorbing Function
The foaming action of compound soften impact between abrasive media and workpieces.
④Lubricating Function
Compound provides a certain degree of slip to abrasive media and improves grinding performance during luster finishing.
⑤Rust Inhibiting Function
Compound prevents rusting during and directly after finishing as the finished surface is activated and easily rusts.
Form and Benefit of Compounds
Liquid Compound
When this compound is supplied by an automatic loader, compound can be easily fed in fixed amounts, and can be easily handled when mass finishing machines and related equipments are automated.
Powder Compound
Generally, this compound has higher glossiness and durability than liquid. However, attention is required when it is stored for a long time as it absorbs moisture. The powder component of this compound sometimes is left as residue on workpieces that have sac holes.
How To Select Compounds by Purpose
Rough Finishing
The surface of workpieces is activated and easily rusts by use of abrasive media for rough cutting. Also, as the amount of wear debris and abrasive particles from the abrasive media and workpiece increases, the surface of workpieces easily becomes dirty. This is why the benefits of liquids and powders are factored in, and compounds for rough finishing having high cleaning and rust inhibiting effect are selected.
Luster Finishing
The surface of workpieces is finished smooth by use of abrasive media for fine finishing and luster finishing.
This is why the benefits of liquids and powders are factored in, and compounds for luster finishing that have an appropriate amount of lubricity are selected to promote the smooth finishing of surfaces and improve gloss.