Redesign of the Magnetic Component in a Portable Magnetic Polishing Machine Using Neodymium Bar Magnets

Abstract

Polishing is a process used to abrade or smooth the surface of a product. One type of polishing machine used is the magnetic polishing machine. Magnetic polishing machines come in various sizes and utilize a wide range of magnetic components. The objective of this study is to redesign the magnetic components of a portable magnetic polishing machine using N52-grade neodymium bar magnets and magnetic needle media for material removal on the surface of the workpiece. The research method employed is a Research and Development (R&D) approach, which includes the design, fabrication of components, testing, and performance evaluation of the magnetic components in the polishing machine. The study takes into account independent, dependent, and controlled variables such as machine rotation speed (rpm), polishing time, and the comparison of test materials with magnetic needle media. The results show that the redesigned portable magnetic polishing machine functions effectively. Within 2 minutes, it can reduce the surface roughness of bolt test materials by 50%, decrease the surface roughness of a 31 mm × 50 mm metal pipe by 35%, and lower the surface roughness of a 30 mm × 50 mm iron plate by 48% from the initial roughness level.