Grinding of metals and ceramics is the process of using grinding machines and specialized grinding tools to remove surface material layers to achieve high precision in dimensions, shapes, and surface finishes. This process is commonly applied to both metals and ceramics, each requiring specific techniques and machining methods.
Metal Grinding: Typically uses grinding wheels containing aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃) or silicon carbide (SiC) abrasives. High precision, suitable for machine parts requiring tight tolerances. Grinding speed and pressure are adjusted to match the hardness of the metal.
Ceramic Grinding: Ceramics are harder than metals, requiring the use of superhard abrasives such as synthetic diamond or CBN (Cubic Boron Nitride). More brittle than metals, so grinding force and speed must be carefully controlled. Coolants are often used to reduce heat and prevent surface cracks.
Applications of Surface Grinding:
Machining components in the electronics industry, such as wafers and substrates. Manufacturing molds and parts in the precision engineering industry. Producing medical tools and products that require high surface smoothness. Grinding flat surfaces, cylindrical parts, or holes in metal components. Finishing surfaces after rough machining or heat treatment. Enhancing surface smoothness and reducing friction on mechanical parts.
