Grinding Wheel
Abstract
This paper discusses the properties and basic mechanical characteristics of a grinding wheel. It defines grinding wheel and its composition, composition, abrasive materials and bonding agents, parameters of grinding wheel, types of wheels and how they are used. It further explains how the grinding wheel works, the mechanics of grinding and the shapes in which grinding wheels are available.
Introduction
A grinding wheel is an abrasive tool used for grinding, smoothing, and shaping materials such as metal, coal, stone, plastic, and more. It is made up of two components of an abrasive material like aluminum oxide, silicon carbide, diamond, etc. and a bonding agent such as resin, nickel, ceramic. The abrasive particles are usually held together by a bonding matrix, so that the wheel can hold its shape during its use.
Composition and Parameters of Grinding Wheel
The makeup of a grinding wheel consists of two components – the abrasive grains or particles and the bonding agent. The abrasive particles are usually made of aluminum oxide, silicon carbide or diamond and work to cut away in the material. The binding agent is usually a mixture of a polyurethane resin, epoxy or silicate and helps to hold the abrasive grains together and provides strength to the wheel. The hardness of the wheel is also determined by the type of binding agent used.
The size and shape of the grains provided in the wheel determine the size and kind of surface removal it is capable of achieving. The size is represented in terms of an abrasive and its particle size, normally known as its grit size, which is given in microns. The grit size can range from coarse to extra fine and it is the grit size that determines the size of the particles and the surface roughness achievable. The bond type and hardness characterizes the bond strength and grinding power. The type of wheel also has an influence on the speed of the grinding process.
Types of Grinding Wheels
There are a number of different types of grinding wheels which can be used depending on the material which needs to be ground, the size and shape of the object to be ground and the grinding power required. The most common types are the straight wheel, the cut-off wheel, the bench grinder wheel and the cup wheel.
The straight wheel is composed of a single abrasive grain which is held together by a binding agent and used primarily for cutting. It is able to achieve maximum grinding power and is used mainly for off-hand grinding tasks.
The cut-off wheel is comprised of a bond, abrasive and resin combination that is extruded in a ring-shaped form and then cured. It is primarily used for cutting hard materials including non-ferrous metals, ceramics, and plastics.
The bench grinder wheel consists of multiple layers of abrasive grains uniform in size and bonded together. It is used for sharpening and dressing tools and is either vitrified bonded or resin bonded.
The cup wheel is made of a deep-dish shape and contains an abrasive and resin combination. It is used for surface grinding and for achieving a smooth finish.
Grinding Wheel Mechanics
The mechanism of the grinding wheel relies on the rotary motion of the grinding wheel during operation. The grinding wheel works by roughening or removing a layer of material from the objects surface, allowing it to take on the required shape or size. During the grinding process, a portion of the metal is broken off and is thus removed from the surface. The finer the particles of the grinding wheel, the smoother the grinding surface will be.
Conclusion
The grinding wheel is an important tool that is used in many different industries such as metal working, aerospace and automotive. Its composition determines the type of work it can do and it is essential for achieving desired results. In conclusion, this paper has discussed the composition, parameters and types of grinding wheels, as well as their mechanics, to provide a clear understanding of their use and importance.
