Development of an ultra-precision grinding technique for the production of structured micro-patches on ceramics and tool steel

Christian Young, Liam Blunt, Zhen Tong

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

Abstract

Ultra-precision grinding using super abrasives such as diamond and Cubic Boron Nitride (CBN) is ideally suited to the production of artefacts in hard or brittle materials such as ceramics or hard metals. These materials are well suited to the production of moulds. Conventional ultra-precision machining techniques such as diamond turning or micro milling are of limited use in the production of these moulds due to long processing times and incompatibility with certain materials. Moulds incorporating a variety of functional surface structures are used in the production of low cost items such as optics and micro-fluidics. Ultra-precision grinding utilising wheels dressed with specialised surface geometries presents an attractive alternative method for the production of structured surfaces. This method has the advantage of being low cost and easy to adapt to a variety of applications. Developing on previous work a series of radial grooves at regular intervals were dressed onto grinding wheels and then used in two perpendicular passes. The technique has been used to create a series of micro-patches on Macor® ceramic to a depth of 20 μm with side lengths of approximately 250 μm to 350 μm. The results of the operation have been compared against the ideal model to determine the fidelity of structure transfer and assess the quality of the finished surface and the impact of process control factors.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationProceedings of the 17th International Conference of the European Society for Precision Engineering and Nanotechnology, EUSPEN 2017
EditorsD. Phillips
Publishereuspen
Pages207-208
Number of pages2
ISBN (Electronic)9780995775107
Publication statusPublished - 26 May 2017
Event17th International Conference of the European Society for Precision Engineering and Nanotechnology - Hannover Congress Centre, Hannover, Germany
Duration: 29 May 20172 Jun 2017
Conference number: 17
http://www.euspen.eu/events/17th-international-conference-exhibition/ (Link to Conference Website )

Conference

Conference17th International Conference of the European Society for Precision Engineering and Nanotechnology
Abbreviated titleEUSPEN 2017
Country/TerritoryGermany
CityHannover
Period29/05/172/06/17
Internet address

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