Abstract
The grain edge shape plays an important role in cutting ability. In order to examine the grain shape, bulk density test has been carried out as a standard test so far. However, it does not give any microscopical information for evaluating the grain edge shape. Hence microscopic evaluation of grain edge shape must be taken into consideration for better abrasive machining. To solve this problem, it was suggested in the previous paper that the fractal dimension could be used to characterize the complexity of grain edge geometry. In the present paper the role of fractal geometry of abrasive grain in lapping is evaluated. When grains of low fiactal dimension are supplied in lapping, stock removal increases in compare with using high fractal dimension. It is because grain surface consists of large and sharp edges. When grain surface consists of micro edges and has a large f actal dimension, the surface finish becomes better. Based on the results, the fractal dimension that characterizes the grain edge geometry can be a better index of cutting ability.
