Technical Parameters of Abrasive Wheel Truing
Abrasive wheel truing is a process used to make the exterior of an abrasive wheel have an accurate and smooth surface that is free from irregularities. It is usually done with a specially designed abrasive truing device. The process is essential in the production of grinding and finishing operations where an accurately shaped wheel is required for avaoiding excessive tool wear and excessive cross-grain surfaces.
Abrasive wheel truing is a process involving the use of several parameters, such as the cutting speed, feed rate and grit size. Different parameters will affect the achieved surface profile, size and throw when the truing device is used. Understanding the principles involved in cutting with abrasive wheels is necessary to achieve the desired results.
The cutting speed is an important parameter when abrasive wheel truing. Generally, the higher the cutting speed, the lower the amount of debris in the surface and the better the finish. On the contrary, slow cutting speeds generate a great amount of debris on the surface, result in inaccurate profiles, and increase the amount of time and effort involved in the truing process. The cutting speed is controlled by the spindle speed, which is set on the truing device.
The feed rate is another parameter that affects the truing process and results. Generally, the higher the feed rate, the smoother the surface will be with fewer irregularities. Conversely, slow feed rates increase the possibility of creating surface irregularities, leading to an uneven finish. The feed rate should be adjusted based on the cutting speed, size of the abrasive wheel, and other material characteristics.
When abrasive wheel truing, the grit size of the abrasive wheelshould also be taken into consideration. Generally, the larger the grit size, the coarser the material removed from the surface and the faster the material is removed. On the contrary, smaller grit size yields a smoother finish with less material removed from the surface. This is important when the truing process is being used to create a specific surface profile.
Once all the parameters are set, the truing device should be initiated and movement of the abrasive wheel should be carefully monitored. The wheel should move in a consistent and controlled manner, tracing the shape of the desired surface. If there is any irregularity in the cutting motion, or if the abrasive wheel is not moving in a controlled manner, the truing should be stopped and the parameters adjusted accordingly.
Once the truing process is completed, the operator should inspect the surface of the wheel to ensure that it is accurate and meets the requirements of the application. If the wheel does not meet the desired specifications, adjustments in the parameters should be made and the truing process should be repeated.
Abrasive wheel truing is a complex process that requires a thorough understanding of the parameters involved and careful monitoring of the process. By properly adjusting the parameters, monitoring the abrasive wheel during the truing process, and properly inspecting the finished wheel, the operator can ensure that the trued wheel meets the desired specifications and provides consistent results for the application.
