afvijling

afvijling is a term used in Dutch machining and craftsmanship to describe the process of removing small amounts of material from a workpiece by filing. The word combines af-, indicating removal, with vijlen, to file. In practice, afvijling is a finishing operation intended to bring a part to its final dimensions, improve surface quality, remove burrs, and ensure proper fit with mating parts.

The technique is employed in metalworking, woodworking, and plastic fabrication, where precise dimensions and smooth surfaces are required. It is performed with hand files of various shapes (flat, round, half-round), rasps, or abrasive files, and can be followed by sanding or polishing for finer finishes. The amount of material removed depends on the file’s coarseness, the workpiece material, and the tolerance goals.

During afvijling, the workpiece is secured, and the file is drawn evenly across the surface with controlled strokes, usually in a consistent direction to minimize tool marks. Regular checks with calipers or gauges help ensure compliance with specifications. Care is taken to avoid overheating and to prevent gouges or chatter. Deburring and radiusing of edges are common aspects of the process, contributing to safer and more reliable parts.

See also: finishing, deburring, filing.