25
SEP 07 - Deburring and Edge Finishing
- 2.5 Hours
One thing I never read about on builders websites or elsewhere is techniques on
how to deburr or edge finish. I guess preferences vary, but it seems like since
we spend so much time doing these simple and repetetive tasks that we would develop
some efficient techniques. With that in mind, I set out today to try as many different
methods of edge finishing and deburring that I could and see what works and what
doesn't.
Edge finishing: The edges of the skins and the flanges on ribs
will have milling marks and have a burr on one edge from the milling process. This
must be removed. The
edge finishing tool that is provided with many of the tool kits does not
sufficiently remove the milling marks in my opinion.
I have found that a coarse file works best for removing the milling marks on the
edge of the skin. I then follow up with a finer file held at a 45 degree angle to
the skin to radius the edges of the skin and remove the burr.
After that is complete, I use the scotchbrite wheel to polish the edge to a smooth
finish and smooth the radius I have created.
Flange Webs: These cannot be reached by a large file or scotchbrite
wheel. I am using emery cloth in 80 and 150 grit in these areas. I cut the sheets
into thin strips. Even the 150 grit is a little coarse, but as the emery wears off
it polishes the web smooth.
You can get this stuff at Home Depot or Lowes.
Look Ma', I'm flossing my ribs!
Hole Deburring: I tried the
Speed Deburring Tool that came with my tool kit, but I found that it takes
off a lot of material because it uses standard countersink cutters. So I ordered
a
Hex Deburring
Tool from Cleveland Tool that only has one hole in it and takes off a lot
less material. Mo Betta!
Only one problem. You can only use this puppy where the holes are accessible. How
about on the back side of a flange on oh say, a horizontal stab spar? Well, you
don't have much access there. You could use the bit by hand I guess, but that would
be a royal pain.
Scotchbrite pad seems to take most of the burrs off, but....
Now we're cooking with gas! Die grinder with a
1" Scotchbrite wheel saves the day and leaves the backside of these holes
oh so smooth. You can see the Hex Deburring Tool attached to the cordless drill
in the background. Note to self: buy a cordless screwdriver!
When all was said and done, it was a productive night, and I feel like I've got
some good techniques to deburr and edge finish for the rest of the project.
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