Isotropic finishing of austempered iron casting cylindrical parts by roller burnishing

Roller burnishing technique to achieve isotropic surface topography on cylindrical components made of austempered ductile iron (ADI) casting is presented in this paper. In the last years, ADI casting components are used in many mechanical applications, due to their enhanced mechanical properties. ADI castings are difficult-to-cut materials; therefore, advanced techniques to improve manufacturing productivity are necessary and under research. On the other hand, spiral roughness pattern produced by turning operation is a common source of unconformities in several applications. Turning produces a defined kinematic pattern, similar to a thread. This work presents a theoretical and experimental validation using different burnishing conditions. Roughness and surface topography and surface integrity were checked. Results show that the technique greatly improves surface roughness, and eliminates the kinematic-driven roughness pattern of turning, leading to a more isotropic finishing. A comparison between roller burnishing and ball burnishing is also presented in this paper.