Superfinishing & Microfinishing

Calico's superfinishing and microfinishing processes transform ground or machined surfaces into optimized tribological interfaces. Unlike traditional machining that leaves directional tool marks (lay), these processes produce isotropic surfaces — with no preferred directionality — that dramatically reduce friction, wear, and noise in mating surface applications.

Two complementary methods are employed. Vibratory polishing uses ceramic media and proprietary compounds in a vibratory bowl to refine surfaces through controlled mass finishing. Centrifugal force microfinishing applies centrifugal energy to dramatically accelerate the process for precision components with tight geometry requirements.

Superfinishing uses a two-step approach: the refinement phase forms and removes an oxide layer while mechanically polishing the peaks, followed by a burnishing phase that produces the final bright, uniform surface. The result is a part with significantly lower Ra values in the valleys, and superior load-carrying capacity — with no material removal from chemical attack or heat distortion from grinding.