Machining of glass by impact processes

Abstract

The paper discusses the machining of glass by two impact processes: (i) abrasive-jet machining (AJM) and (ii) ultrasonic machining (USM). In abrasive-jet machining, silicon carbide or aluminium oxide abrasives were mixed with air and directed at high velocity onto the glass. In ultrasonic machining, aluminium oxide or silicon carbide or boron carbide was mixed with water and fed to a tool oscillating at frequencies between 15 and 20 kc/s, where the ensuing hammering action resulted in material removal. Both processes are discussed in this paper, with comparisons drawn between them, and experimental findings are reported.