Abstract
The magnetic abrasive finishing (MAF) process has potential as an advanced surface finishing technique, capable of achieving micro/nano-level finishes with minimal residual effects. However, it faces limitations in surface accuracy and finishing efficiency, especially with advanced materials used in engineering industries. To address these issues, recent trends in the MAF process focus on hybridizations that integrate techniques such as chemo-assisted MAF, electrochemical-assisted MAF, and ultrasonic-assisted MAF. These approaches aim to increase the material removal rate and obtain better surface conditions. This study examined an electropolishing-assisted MAF process using carbon nanotubes and cobalt composites to achieve fine surfaces on stainless steel (SS) 316. The experimental approach explored the effects and interactions of process parameters, which affect mechanical finishing and electrochemical reactions on surface improvement. It was concluded that the main contribution was the magnetic flux density for 30 minutes. In addition, a 32.9% reduction in surface roughness Rα from 0.210 µm to 0.141 µm was obtained under the optimal condition. Thus, it demonstrates that the proposed hybrid finishing process significantly improves the surface quality of SS316 and has potential for various industrial applications.