An Investigation of Grinding Wheel Cutting Edges

Abstract

A new apparatus for microscopic observation and tracing of cutting edges of a wheel has been developed. The use of this apparatus allows us to visually witness the behavior of abrasive grains during the grinding operation. A phase-contrast microscope, as well as an electron microscope has been used with the new apparatus in this investigation. A method of calculating effective grain spacing to show distribution of cutting edges, as well as the cutting edge ratio to known worn conditions of grains has been completed. These aforementioned values for various grinding wheels have been studied in grinding operations and the changing aspects of them have been noted. Through these experiments, we have had helpful suggestions about grinding mechanisms; there is no self-dressing action of grains in the usual grinding work; sliding of the cutting edges takes place in the grinding, and wear of the grinding is increased by this action.