Investigations on the Application of Elastomagnetic Abrasive Balls for Fine Finishing

Abstract

This paper discusses a unique and flexible mode of applying fine abrasive grains in the form of mesoscale elastomagnetic abrasive balls, controlled using magnetic field, to achieve micro/nanoscale surface finish. The proposed balls are easy to load in the working gap to form an elastomagnetic abrasive brush that can be moved over the surface to get the required microcutting action. The effect of elastomeric medium present in the balls is clearly illustrated, and proven to be a viable approach for yielding ultra fine finish without altering the surface form. An analytical model is presented to describe the effect of finishing forces, torque, as well as the major process variables affecting the material removal. Detailed experimental investigation is reported with the statistical analysis of results and the validation of theoretical model.