Grinding of flat glass with Fe- and Cu-based diamond tools

Abstract

Preparation of grinding wheels is the most important effective factor in glass machining. This article presents the comparison of the iron- and copper-based grinding tools. The performance of the tools is investigated based on technical and commercial aspects using same cutting speeds, feeds, and sizes of diamond grits. Scanning electron microscope is used in order to observe the microstructures of cutting tools. The service life of the grinding tools is determined on the production line in a flat glass plant. A lifetime of Fe-based diamond tools is longer compared to the copper-based wheels. The impact of metal bond materials on the service life is examined. The results show that the Fe-based tools are more economical and more useful for grinding of glass. The holding of Fe-based bonding to diamond grit is stronger than the copper-based ones.