Evaluation of Lapping Grains based on Shape Characteristics

Abstract

The shape and size of abrasive grains during lapping varies complicately and irregularly. In this study, the aspect ratio of grain size and the fractal dimension of the grain external form were used as shape characteristics of grain in order to evaluate grains with lapping time. The results obtained are summarized as follows : (1) The fractal dimension increases due to microscopic fracture and decreases due to macroscopic fracture or attritious wear. (2) The aspect ratio and the fractal dimension, which are grain shape characteristicsis of the macroscopic shape and the microscopic surface complication of grain respectively, can be used for evaluating grain shape variation during lapping.