The Economics of Grinding Operations

Author: Dr. ir. A. Decneut

Original Language: Dutch

Abstract

In a previous contribution (“Measures for Improving Surface Integrity in Grinding”), it was mentioned in passing that with a judicious choice of grinding conditions, grinding costs can easily be reduced by 30%, in extreme cases by as much as 80%.

This contribution demonstrates what these conclusions are based on. A method is proposed that allows practical determination of the most economical material removal rate as well as the corresponding minimum grinding costs.

Development

The method was developed in close collaboration between:

• The university (Mechanical Engineering Institute of the Catholic University of Leuven, under the direction of Prof. Peters and Prof. Snoeys)
• The CRIF research center (grinding department of the research center for the metalworking industry)
• Various grinding workshops in Europe

Applicability

The proposed method is valid for both surface grinding and cylindrical plunge or longitudinal grinding. It can be applied to conventional abrasives as well as diamond and borazon.