FAQ
1) What types of metal does Advanced Tec-Neeks Super-Finishing (ATSF) vapor blast?
We vapor blast carbon steels, stainless steels, aluminum, brass and bronze parts.
2) What is the maximum component size that ATSF can vapor blast?
22” Wide X 26” High x 32” Long
3) Does vapor blasting damage sealing surfaces?
We have vapor blasted components requiring 1 RMS surface finish (very fine) without encountering any issues.
4) Do bearings need to be removed before vapor blasting a component?
Yes, all bearings must be removed before vapor blasting a component. If necessary, we have blind-pullers to remove bearings. There is an extra charge for this service.
5) Does ATSF vapor blast V-8 or V-6 automotive engine blocks?
At this time, we do not vapor blast these large engine blocks. However, we do vapor blast VW 4-cylinder and Porsche 6-cylinder engine blocks along with V-Twin and import motorcycle crankcases.
6) Does ATSF vapor blast motorcycle and automotive wheel rims?
Yes, we do. The customer must remove all bearings from the wheel hub and all spokes from a spoked wheel. In some cases paint will need to be chemically stripped prior to vapor blasting. There is an extra charge for any necessary paint stripping.
7) Does ATSF vapor blast motorcycle and automotive carburetors?
Yes. The customer must completely disassemble the carburetor. After vapor blasting, we finish-clean the carburetor in an ultrasonic cleaner. However, it is the customer’s responsibility to ensure that all hidden passageways, galleys, blind holes, cracks, crevices and small apertures are thoroughly cleaned.
8) Are vapor blasting and wet-tech blasting the same process?
Vapor blasting and wet-tech blasting are identical processes. Wet-Tech, actually WetTechnologies, is a brand of vapor blasting machine. ATSF uses a WetTechnologies machine to perform its vapor blasting. The term “vapor blasting” has become the industry standard for this type of metal finishing.
9) Does vapor blasting remove paint?
Yes it does, but to save time and end up with a better finish, ATSF chemically strips painted parts. We can quote you a cost for chemically stripping your painted parts, or you can remove the paint yourself.
10) Does a clear coating need to be applied over bare aluminum after it is vapor blasted?
Vapor blasting produces a soft, luxurious finish to bare aluminum. As such ATSF does not recommend applying any coating to the aluminum after vapor blasting.
11) Are there any detrimental affects caused by vapor blasting?
As long as the vapor blasting process is applied correctly and the component is thoroughly clean afterwards, there should not be any detrimental affects. At ATSF, we finish clean all vapor blasted parts in an ultrasonic cleaner that is excellent at cleaning intricate and hard-to-reach areas such as hidden passageways, oil galleys, blind holes, cracks, crevices and small apertures because the environmentally friendly citrus-water-based detergent and high-frequency ultrasonic waves penetrate all surfaces.
1) What types of metal does ATSF isotropic super-finish?
ATSF isotropic finishes carbon steels and stainless steels.
2) Can bearings be isotropic finished?
We do not isotropic finish any bearings.
3) Can automotive or utility side-by-side CV joints be isotropic super-finished?
Yes they can, but they must be fully disassembled by the customer.
4) Can ring and pinion gears be isotropic super-finished?
Yes they can. And customer feedback indicates the processed assemblies can be set up much tighter.
5) Can vintage engine parts be isotropic super-finished?
Yes. In fact, vintage components are often manufactured from high-quality base metal that produces an outstanding “like new” look when isotropic processed.
6) I have heard that isotropic super-finishing can be performed using either a chemical liquid or paste. What determines which one is used?
One determining factor is the base metal alloy. ATSF has been performing isotropic super-finishing for over 6 years and relies on its experience to determine which is the best process to use. The cost is the same for either product.
7) What is “REM” isotropic finishing?
REM is a trademarked acronym for REM’s specific isotropic finishing process. When isotropic surface finishing is done properly, the end results are the same.
8) During isotropic finishing, how are critical areas such as rod journals protected?
ATSF masks off such critical areas. This is an extra-charge service. Request a quote.
9) Does isotropic super-finishing improve the shifting of new and vintage automotive and motorcycle transmissions?
The answer is yes to both automotive and motorcycle transmission shifting. ATSF has received much positive feedback about improved up-shifting and down-shifting of automotive and motorcycle transmissions after the isotropic super-finishing of transmission gears.
10) How much material is removed during the isotropic super-finishing process?
Material loss is minimal and is measured in Microns or one millionth of an inch.
11) Can cam chains and sprockets, and primary chains and compensating sprockets be isotropic super-finished?
Yes, we commonly isotropic super-finish these components. We do all types of chains and sprockets. Interestingly, processed cam chains also result in less wear on plastic cam chain tensioner pads.
12) Can springs be isotropic-super-finished?
Yes. For high-performance applications, we use isotropic super-finishing for stress relieving valve springs. In fact, most springs can be isotropic super-finished.
13) Can ATSF disassemble gears and other components from transmission shafts or drivetrain/engine components?
Yes we can. Either the customer can completely disassemble the transmission components before shipping them to us, or we a perform the disassemble for an additional charge.
14) Can boat props and gears be isotropic finished?
Yes, we have performed isotropic super-finishing for some of America’s top boat racers.
15) Can firearm components be isotropic finished?
Yes. Carbon steel and stainless steel firearm components can be upgraded with isotropic super-finishing for reduced friction and smoother functioning. Common components include internal trigger assemblies, bolt carriers, barrels, frames and slides. All components must be disassembled by the customer.
16) Are there any detrimental affects caused by isotropic super-finishing?
If the isotropic super-finishing process is applied correctly, there should not be any detrimental affects.
1) What is an ultrasonic cleaner?
An ultrasonic cleaner is a cleaner that uses ultrasonic (high frequency)sound waves to clean objects. The frequency is above the human hearing range.
2) What causes “spider web” or “vein” witness marks on parts cleaned by ultrasonic cleaning?
Incorrect chemistry of the pH, temperature or watt density is usually the cause. At ATSF, we manage the ultrasonic chemistry to eliminate such problems.
1) Can ATSF chemically strip powder coating and paint?
Yes. ATSF outsources these procedures, which usually take two to four days.
1) How long does it take to have parts electroplated?
In most cases, it takes two weeks or less.
1) What are ATSF’s thoughts about Cryogenic Treatment (AKA Cryogenic Freezing)?
Cryogenic Treatment benefits include increased dimensional stability, reduced stresses in the material, and improved wear resistance. These benefits can be realized as long as the part’s base metal is of high quality. Problems can arise with parts having low-quality imported base metal or where the part’s quality is unknown.
2) I have heard that Isotropic super-finishing is typically done in conjunction with cryogenic treatment. Is this true, and in what order should the two processes be performed?
It is true that the two processes are commonly done together. Cryogenic treatment is always performed first and is then followed by isotropic super-finishing.
3) How does ATSF charge for cryogenic treatment?
Cryogenic treatment is priced by pound weight (16 oz). The cost ranges between $9.00 and $12.00 USD per pound. The process is done in batch loads and typically takes two to three weeks.
