How to Select NamPower Abrasive Disc Brushes

NamPower abrasive disc brushes provide maximum burr removal rates and produce an ideal surface finish at the same time. Made by Brush Research Manufacturing (BRM), these professional-grade brush tools use nylon abrasive filaments and are easily integrated into automated machinery, CNC machining centers, transfer lines, and robotic cells. By allowing lubrication to flow from the brush center instead of from the outside, NamPower technology also provides for longer tool life.

In addition to automated deburring, industrial applications for NamPower brushes include cleaning, surface preparation, parts resurfacing, and fine blanketing. When selecting NamPower abrasive disc brushes, users need to consider four main specifications: brush type, trim length, grit selection, and brush diameter.  BRM’s downloadable NamPower Resource Guide provides charts for each specification and also describes operating parameters and application guidelines.     

Brush Type

NamPower abrasive disc brushes come in two types: dot and turbine. Dot style brush tools are designed for general-purpose deburring and surface finishing. These reliable, cost-effective commercial brushes provide greater flexibility and allow for easier entry into small holes and spaces. For medium and heavy-duty deburring, turbine style NamPower abrasive disc brushes are recommended. With their high density fill, these high-quality industrial brushes cut faster and are ideal for short cycle times.

Trim Length

In addition to brush type, NamPower users need to consider the relationship between trim length and burr size, part shape and conformity, radius requirements, and final finish requirements. There are two available trim lengths (18-mm and 38-mm) for both dot style and turbine style NamPower abrasive disc brushes. Nylon abrasive brushes with longer trim lengths (38-mm) are less aggressive but more flexible. Industrial brushes with shorter trim lengths (18-mm) are less flexible but more aggressive.

Grit Selection

All NamPower brush tools feature a unique combination of ceramic and silicon carbide abrasives. There are four grits available: 80, 120, 180, 320. When selecting grit, consider both the starting surface finish and the amount of material refinement required. As a rule, choose the coarsest grit that will provide the required surface finish. Then use a finer grit tool as necessary. Coarse grits are also recommended for use with heavier burrs, or when a fine surface finish is not required.

Brush Diameter

NamPower abrasive disc brushes are available in three diameters: 100-mm, 125-mm, and 150-mm. Ideally, users should select and use a brush tool that’s three inches larger the workpiece. If fixture restrictions require the use of a smaller brush, then the centerline of the brush tool should be aligned with the targeted edge with a minimum of 1.5-in. overlap.

For more information about brush diameter and other product specifications, download the free, full-color NamPower Resource Guide today. Printed copies are also available by simply completing this easy-to-use on-line form.