Kennametal Extrude Hone, Irwin, Pa., and Hydro, Chicago, have entered into a strategic alliance to provide pump customers in the power generation industry with one global service and support unit. The primary benefits for customers include improved efficiency and performance, longer service intervals and engineered upgrade options, according to the companies. The business arrangement represents a partnership between two companies with complementary specialties. Kennametal Extrude Hone provides precision surface solutions and products on hydraulic components and Hydro is known for pump maintenance and restoration services.
Kennametal Extrude Hone's Abrasive Flow Machining (AFM) process can be applied to pump components such as centrifugal impellers, resulting in a laminar flow and, consequently, improved performance. AFM is used to essentially "polish and shape" the inner pathways of narrowed fluid flow passages.
In addition to clogged fluid pathways, many other pump components can wear over time and contribute to vibration. Vibration negatively affects other components and the overall longevity and efficiency of pump operation, resulting in frequent repairs. Together, Kennametal Extrude Hone and Hydro are offering restoration and maintenance packages to refurbish powergen pumps and thereby extend the time between repairs.
The two companies plan to apply their techniques and expertise to additional industry sectors beyond conventional power generation plants in 2014, including nuclear, petroleum, steel, pulp and paper, municipal, and general industrial pump applications.
Related Glossary Terms
- abrasive
abrasive
Substance used for grinding, honing, lapping, superfinishing and polishing. Examples include garnet, emery, corundum, silicon carbide, cubic boron nitride and diamond in various grit sizes.
- abrasive flow machining
abrasive flow machining
Finishing and deburring operation for holes, inaccessible areas or restricted passages. Done by clamping the workpiece in a fixture, then extruding semisolid abrasive media through the passage. Often, multiple parts are loaded into a single fixture and finished simultaneously.
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