Magnetic Float Polishing of Ceramics

Abstract

Magnetic float polishing is a new technique developed for efficient finishing of advanced ceramics. The equipment for this application thus far has been developed on the basis of empirical designs and trial and error experimental approach which can be costly and time consuming. In the work reported here both analytical (FEM simulation) and experimental approaches were taken to determine such design parameters as the variation of magnetic float stiffness with buoyant force and variation of buoyant force with the gap between the magnet and the float. The agreement between the experimental and analytical results is found to be excellent. Consequently, it is possible to simulate different designs without actually building different equipment for the performance evaluation. Also, the effect of ball circulation speed in magnetic float polishing is discussed qualitatively for assessing the conditions for high removal rates and/or best finish. Such an approach can facilitate the development of operating conditions maps for magnetic float polishing.