Grinding of ceramics: The effect on its strength properties

The effect of grinding on new types of advanced ceramics have been studied experimentally, a series of grinding tests having been undertaken where three process variables; wheel speed, depth of cut and workpiece in-feed rate; were investigated to ascertain their influence on the strength of the ceramic samples. Grinding forces generated under the various conditions were obtained. Residual stresses introduced into the samples were measured using an X-ray diffraction technique. The wheel surface was monitored during its preparation and during the test. The strengths of the samples were found using a 3-point bend test. The ground surfaces were observed with a scanning electron microscope and their Ra values obtained. Results from comparable vitrified and resin-bond diamond grinding wheels were examined.