This paper studies the surface finish and integrity of glass, silicon, some advanced ceramics and aluminum-based metal matrix composites (MMCs) reinforced with ceramic particles, precision machined by various machining processes. The studies revealed that grinding/lapping operations using inexpensive machine tools can produce ductile streaks on glass and silicon surfaces under good grinding/lap...

Grinding-wheel wear is a critical factor affecting grinding performance and tool cost. Unfortunately, tests – particularly with superabrasives can be notoriously time-consuming. Therefore, novel lapping-based method proposed for investigating behaviour of the grit-bond system. Wear were performed in (i) lapping, (ii) surface grinding, (iii) cylindrical range grit-shape aspect ratios grit-toughn...

The quality of surfaces machined by lapping depends on numerous variables, some of them controllable and others not. Their existence renders the task of selecting adequate working parameters and their values (set points) such as to obtain the desired response difficult. For this reason, this paper discusses the robust parameter design as an optimisation method for plane lapping. The paper prese...

Conventional material removal of BK7 optical glass will normally result in brittle fracture at the surface, generating severe subsurface damage and poor surface finish. Subsurface damages induced by grinding strongly influence the mechanical strength and optical quality of optical glasses. However, through ductile mode grinding it is possible to reduce the surface and subsurface cracks. It is m...