Rubbing: Experimental and Finite Element Investigations

Rubbing: Experimental and Finite Element Investigations

Grinding processes are widespread in the manufacturing landscape and provide a unique method of shaping high-strength metals. As an important industrial operation grinding practitioners and researchers alike are driven to continually optimize the process' efficiency. As a result, this work investigates the fundamental aspects of how metal is removed during the grinding process. More specifically it delves into the micromechanics of how individual grits interact with the machined metal. Through various phases, each grit rubs along the surface, plows material, and finally removes the metal. Experimental, analytical, and finite element investigations were used to explore the micro-mechanics of the rubbing and plowing phases. As a consequence, a finite element model was developed and validated, one of the first models capable of simulating both phases accurately. The results presented here should be of interest to grinding researchers with a view towards fundamental exploration of the grinding process.