SURFACE CHARACTERISTICS ON THE DUCTILE MODE GRINDING OF MGO SINGLE-CRYSTAL WITH OPTIMUM IN-PROCESS ELECTROLYTIC DRESSING SYSTEM

MgO single crystal is widely used as a material of high-temperature re sistance, but is difficult to grind because of brittleness and crack g eneration. Superabrasive diamond wheels are therefore required for duc tile mode grinding of this material. This study describes a newly prop osed optimum in-process electrolytic dressing system for carrying out effective dressing of superabrasive diamond wheels. Using this system the ground surfaces of MgO single crystals were improved, the grinding force was reduced and cracks were eliminated. In conclusion, this sys tem enables efficient and ductile mode grinding to be obtained without cracking of MgO single crystals. (C) 1997 Elsevier Science Ltd.