In this thesis an attempt is made to study the grinding wheel wear phenomena by analyzing the cutting force patterns, wheel wear and wear particles removed from the wheel. Results of measurements of grinding forces and wheel wear, in addition to the scanning electron microscope observations, are presented for grinding hardened M2 tool steel and 52100 bearing steel. Plunge-type surface grinding tests were performed with different grade hardness wheels of aluminum oxide grains in vitrified bond. Contrary to common belief, all wheels tested were found to maintain their grinding capability, during a long grinding operation. The method proposed, for evaluating the performance of grinding wheels from force pattern and grinding wheel wear, appears to present a clear picture of the wear phenomenon. And the method could be adopted for the selection of grinding wheels.

Master of Engineering (ME)