Prepping knurled aluminum

[stayhi]

okay guys got a tough one. got a large batch of parts all have a section of knurled finish on em.
reading around last night and and i didnt find any info here so i figure this would be good to archive:
Knurling is not a 'clean' operation. Flakes are created in the knurling process and can adhere to the part. If not removed prior to anodize, they too will anodize, and then if removed, leave the bare 'contact' point.

If done properly, knurling will leave little flakes, but nonetheless, a mechanical brushing of the knurl can be done to remove the stubborn flakes prior to anodize.

Willie Alexander

so sure enough i got out the toothbrush and i got flakes falling off.
so besides brushing for hours[literally], any tips or tricks you folks use that you would care to share.

gonna go check out various buffing wheels to see if one would work but any other ideas would be appreciated.

[CarWiz]

Most modern day knurling is done with two wheels. Each wheel has diagonal forms running in opposite directions. As each wheel displaces it's form into the object, the combination creates the diamond pattern. I use a fine wire wheel and hold the object at an angle to brush out the diagonals. Two light passes while rotating the object normally does it.

The old type used a diamond form cut into the wheels. These left a diamond "dimple" and are harder to clean. A small wire brush is about the only way to clean these.

[stayhi]

stainless wire wheel?

[CarWiz]

It doesn't matter. You're going to the cleaner/stripper tank right after, right? Just make sure it's a FINE wire wheel and don't hog into it. It causes less abrasion to the metal.

[stayhi]

thanks man check back tomorrow for the results, appreciate it.