An experimental investigation of the strengths of individual brown corundum abrasive grains

Abstract

The fracture characteristics of individual abrasive grains such as their strengths and strength distribution are of great importance in grinding process since the shapes of broken abrasive grains which fracture during dressing and grinding heavily influence the surface topography of a grinding wheel. In heavy grinding, the good selfdressing of the grinding wheel makes the cutting edge of abrasive grains sharp to keep the higher stock removal rate this is helpful for lowering the grinding force and the grinding temperature. On the other hand, in precision grinding the tough grains are needed to keep the fine cutting edges generated by very fine dressing. This is because the fracture fragments during grinding will damage the machined surface of the workpiece and lower its surface finish.