Effect of the Grain Shape on Abrasive Tool Performance

Abstract

The results of studying the effect of the grain shape on abrasive disc performance are presented. The grain shape was conveniently divided into two classes: isometric and non-isometric. The results of the microhardness tests, elastic properties tests, and mechanical strength tests of grains various in shape are given. The test results make it clear that grain microhardness slightly decreases as the grain shape changes from isometric to the plate shape. The grain elasticity also decreases. It is demonstrated that variations in the industrial grain volume and weight can be indicative not only of the changed grain size composition, chemical composition etc., but of a significant variation in the correlative content of grains different in shape. The bulk weight difference of diversiform grains is important for the structure, structural density, and matrix packing of abrasive discs. It is found that the grain shape is an essential feature that predetermines abrasive tool performance to a greater extent.