REM® Isotropic Finishing

Submitted by ckraeft on Wed, 01/30/2013 - 17:47
REM® Isotropic Finishing

Problem: Reducing Friction and Improving Life

At Taylor Race Engineering, we are constantly looking for ways to affordably improve gears: how to decrease friction and improve the life of transmission parts. We have investigated a number of possible solutions but have found most wanting:

  • Coatings: Are quickly rubbed off, having no residual benefits.
  • Polishing: Creates a beautiful finish, but destroys the functional shape of gears, especially ring and pinion sets.
  • Chrome Plating: Effective, but too expensive.
  • Cryogenics: Does no harm, but little good. Best used for cutting tools.

 

Solution: REM™ Isotropic Finishing

Although the result of the REM process is a beautiful finish, it is important to realize that the system does not polish the part. The process involves two steps.

The first step, referred to as the refinement process, involves a chemical interaction on the surface of the part. A soft, thin (one micron) film is formed on the surface of the part. The part interacts with the ceramic media in a special vibratory tub, this film is physically removed from the "peaks" of the processed part and the "valleys" are unaffected. The chemically induced film re-forms only at the peaks that are interacting with the vibratory media, and the process repeats itself. Over time, the peaks are removed, leaving only the valleys, producing the improved micro finish.

The second step is referred to as the burnish process. After the required micro finish is achieved, a mild alkaline mixture is introduced. After a relatively short period, a polished chrome-like finish is produced. In addition to the polishing effects, this step effectively removes all traces of the film formation from the refinement process.

The Benefits Include:

  • Reduced friction, vibration and noise
  • Improved shifting
  • Longer life
  • More power to the wheels
  • Reduction in lubricant temperature

 

Cost (Labor only):

Complete gearbox, when combined with overhaul or Blueprint. This includes initial setup of transmission ring and pinion, lapping of the ring and pinion (if necessary), disassembly, and reassembly after REM treatment $825.00
Batch of parts (up to 30 gearsets) $605.00
Ring and pinion (non-standard long) $195.00
Ring and pinion (MK, LD, FT, Staffs) $165.00
Individual Gearset Pairs $45.00
Dog ring $30.00
1/R slider $30.00
Hub (MK, LD, FT, Staffs) $30.00
Diff ramps (Power Flow) $49.00
Oil pump gear $30.00
Shift barrel $55.00
Side gear (MK, LD, FT, Staffs) $25.00
Spider gear (MK, LD, FT, Staffs ) $25.00
Shift pawl $25.00
CV joints $80.00