High Performance Superabrasive Grinding

Abstract

The development of high performance grinding machines together with the latest superabrasive technology has the potential to impact significantly on existing process chains. Abrasive machining is one material removal process that has the potential to span several orders of magnitude in terms of stock removal. This ranges from high efficiency deep grinding (HEDG) which can now compete with conventional cutting processes and provides the potential for improved surface integrity, surface finish and form accuracy, through to superfinished surfaces with roughness values as low as 10nm Ra. Thus, using a single machine tool and a single set-up, exceptionally high stock removal rates are achievable in a roughing cycle followed by superfinishing to generate the required surface characteristics and profile, providing higher precision and reduced manufacturing costs.