Surface finishing is essential for the performance, longevity, and quality of metal components—but it comes with its own set of challenges. From burrs that interfere with part functionality to surface contaminants that hinder coating adhesion, manufacturers must navigate these issues without compromising precision. Fortunately, with the right tools and strategies, these challenges can be resolved efficiently and consistently. Industrial-grade brushes and FLEX-HONE® tools offer powerful, repeatable solutions that protect tolerances while enhancing surface integrity.
INDUSTRIAL MANUFACTURING
YOUR FINISHING PROCESS JUST GOT EASIER. DISCOVER HOW OUR TOOLS HELP THE INDUSTRIAL MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY
OVERVIEW
Industrial manufacturing is at the very heart of the global economy, supporting everything from automotive and aerospace to medical devices and heavy equipment. It’s a sector built on precision, innovation, and performance. In 2024, the market was estimated to be worth between $34-35 trillion—and is forecasted to grow over 36 trillion by 2029, driven by advancements in automation, engineering, and materials.
In industrial manufacturing, surface finishing isn’t just an extra step, it’s a must. It helps parts function better, look cleaner, and last longer. Whether it’s removing burrs, smoothing rough edges, or giving components a polished finish, having the right tools makes a big difference. That’s where things like wire brushes, abrasive brushes, and the FLEX-HONE® play a critical role. They handle the tough jobs that keep production moving and parts up to spec. When surface finishing is done right, it helps cut waste, save time, and keep equipment running at its very best.
Can be used in Virtually any rotating spindle
Mastering Surface Finishing: Proven Solutions to Common Manufacturing Challenges
Common Manufacturing Surface Finishing Challenges
- Burrs & Rough Edges: Leftover material from machining can disrupt fit, sealing, or movement.
- Surface Contaminants: Oils, oxides, and debris interfere with coatings, adhesion, and corrosion resistance.
- Inconsistent Finishes: Manual finishing leads to variability, undermining quality control.
- Tight Tolerances: Critical parts require precise finishing without dimensional distortion.
Effective Solutions & Benefits:
FLEX-HONE® Application: Provides controlled, repeatable, and precise finishing results.
Use of Abrasive Brushes: Ensures even material removal without excessive wear on parts.
Automation and Consistency: Integration of finishing tools into automated systems enhances repeatability and quality.
Proper Material Selection: Using the correct abrasive grain, wire type, and brush density tailored to the application.
The FLEX-HONE® Benefits
Crosshole Deburring:
Removes burrs from intersecting holes without altering part geometry.
Surface Refinement:
Achieves a plateaued finish, improving lubrication retention and wear resistance.
Edge Blending:
Smooths sharp edges without over-cutting or material removal beyond tolerance limits.
Featured Products
Brush Research BCKDBR12, 10-Piece Deburring FLEX-HONE® Kit, 120 Grit, Silicon Carbide
Abrasive Type: 120 Grit Silicon Carbide
Kit Includes: 10 Hones
Brush Research BCKFIN600, 10-Piece Finishing FLEX-HONE® Kit, 600 Grit, Silicon Carbide
Abrasive Type: 600 Grit Silicon Carbide
Kit Includes: 10 Hones
NAMPOWER 8-Piece Thread Deburring Brush Kit, Inch Sizes, 120 Grit, Ceramic
Fill Material: Abrasive Impregnated
Abrasive Type: 120 Grit Ceramic
Kit Includes: 8 Brushes
81-ADKIT Miniature Diamond Abrasive Nylon Deburring Brush Kit-Inch Sizes (12/Pack)
Fill Material: Abrasive Nylon
Kit Includes: 12 Brushes
BRM ADBK80 NAMPOWER, 3 Piece Disc Brush Kit, 1-80mm Dot, 1-80mm Turbine, 80 Grit With Holder
Brush Diameter(mm): 80
Fill Material: 80 Grit Combination-Ceramic/Silicon Carbide Abrasive Nylon
Type: Dot/Turbine Kit
Trim Length: 18.0
BRM BNH16AY120AO 1.750" Small Dia. Cup Brush, 120 Grit Aluminum Oxide, .250" Shank Dia., .500" Trim
Brush Diameter(in) 1.75
Fill Material: Abrasive Nylon
Type: Small Diameter Cup
Trim Length(in): 0.5
BRM BNH16AY120SC 1.750" Small Dia. Cup Brush, 120 Grit Silicon Carbide, .250" Shank Dia., .500" Trim
Brush Diameter(in) 1.75
Fill Material: Abrasive Nylon
Type: Small Diameter Cup
Trim Length(in): 0.5
BRM BNH16AY180AO 1.750" Small Dia. Cup Brush, 180 Grit Aluminum Oxide, .250" Shank Dia., .500" Trim
Brush Diameter(in) 1.75
Fill Material: Abrasive Nylon
Type: Small Diameter Cup
Trim Length(in): 0.5
BRM BNH16AY180SC 1.750" Small Dia. Cup Brush, 180 Grit Silicon Carbide, .250" Shank Dia., .500" Trim
Brush Diameter(in) 1.75
Fill Material: Abrasive Nylon
Type: Small Diameter Cup
Trim Length(in): 0.5
BRM BNH16AY320AO 1.750" Small Dia. Cup Brush, 320 Grit Aluminum Oxide, .250" Shank Dia., .500" Trim
Brush Diameter(in) 1.75
Fill Material: Abrasive Nylon
Type: Small Diameter Cup
Trim Length(in): 0.5
BRM BNH16AY320SC 1.750" Small Dia. Cup Brush, 320 Grit Silicon Carbide, .250" Shank Dia., .500" Trim
Brush Diameter(in) 1.75
Fill Material: Abrasive Nylon
Type: Small Diameter Cup
Trim Length(in): 0.5
case studies
Learn how BRM tools are being used to improve processes, cut costs and save time!
Custom FLEX-HONE® Tools for Deburring Piercings
Learn how a stamping company is using custom FLEX-HONE® tools to remove burrs from pierced holes in stepped sections of spring cups that flared at the top.
download pdfFLEX-HONE® Assist Helicopter Manufacturer
Learn how the FLEX-HONE® played a critical role in assisting a helicopter manufacturer.
download pdfFLEX-HONE® Helps Pump Manufacturer
Learn how Flex-Hone technology helped Haskel, Inc. to improve quality and reduce costs while deburring miniaturized air-driven liquid pumps.
download pdfNAMPOWER-Vise Manufacturer Uses Abrasive Disc Brushes to Automate Finishing
A look at how Orange Vise, a reputable vise maker, is using abrasive disc brushes in their operation.
download pdfApplication Sales Sheet
FLEX-HONE®-CROSSHOLE DEBURRING
download pdfFLEX-HONE®-CROSSHOLE DEBURRING
Learn how the FLEX-HONE deburred 48 cross holes in 12 seconds!
download pdf
FLEX-HONE®-POLISHING HARDENED STEEL
download pdfFLEX-HONE®-POLISHING HARDENED STEEL
Learn how the FLEX-HONE took a set of carbide rings from a 40Ra to 4 in less than 20 seconds!
download pdf
FLEX-HONE®-COATING REMOVAL
download pdfFLEX-HONE®-COATING REMOVAL
Learn how the FLEX-HONE removed paint and coating from a cylinder with minimal dimensional change!
download pdf
FLEX-HONE®-RUST AND CORROSION REMOVAL
download pdfFLEX-HONE®-RUST AND CORROSION REMOVAL
Learn how the FLEX-HONE quickly and easily removed corrosion and rust with minimal dimensional change!
download pdf
FLEX-HONE®-THREAD DEBURRING
download pdfFLEX-HONE®-THREAD DEBURRING
Learn how the FLEX-HONE deburrs coarse threads in 6 seconds!
download pdf
NAMPOWER END BRUSH - ALUMINUM
download pdfNAMPOWER END BRUSH - ALUMINUM
Learn how the NAMPOWER Ceramic End Brushes automate finishing and deburring by finishing parts in 10 seconds!
download pdf
NAMPOWER END BRUSH - INCONEL
download pdfNAMPOWER END BRUSH - INCONEL
Learn how the NAMPOWER Ceramic End Brushes automate finishing and deburring by finishing tough Inconel alloy parts in 20 seconds!
download pdf
ABRASIVE NYLON WHEELS-ALUMINUM EXTRUSION DEBURRING
download pdf
NAMPOWER-CERAMIC THREAD DEBURRING
download pdfNAMPOWER-CERAMIC THREAD DEBURRING
Learn how these ceramic abrasive filament brushes maximize value per part by deburrs threads in 5 seconds!
download pdfNeed more information
NOT SURE WHAT YOU NEED?
Send in your part and receive a full-service part evaluation, laboratory analysis and product recommendation.
CUSTOMIZED BRUSHES
Didn't find the brush you need? No problem. BRM Technical Engineers will design a tool for your specific application requirements.
GUARANTEED TEST ORDER PROGRAM
Our tools speak for themselves. For qualified production applications, no charge samples will be provided for testing.
NEED ON-SITE SUPPORT?
Our network of manufacturing representatives work with you to discuss your application, deliver samples and optimizing setups.
Have any questions?
For more than 65 years, BRM has been creating solutions to some of the toughest surface finishing challenges. We look forward to working with you.
Contact Us