A review of the influence of grinding conditions on resulting residual stresses after induction surface hardening and grinding

Internal stresses which are, since the completion of manufacturing, termed residual stresses very much reflect the manufacturing procedures and machin ing conditions. Residual stresses are analysed in terms of different induction surface hard ening conditions and then also after finish grinding in terms of different machining conditions. Induction surface hardening creates very desirable residual stresses in the hardened surface layer. Residual stresses are always of a compressive natu re and are usually present to the depth of the induction-hardened layer. By the appropriate selection of grinding wheel and grinding conditions and ta king into account the physical and mechanical properties of the workpiece m aterial very favourable compressive residual stresses in the hardened surfa ce layer can be retained. How is it possible to assure a desirable surface and surface layer quality after induction-hardening and fine grinding? Finding an answer to this ques tion requires a very good knowledge of the process of grinding on the micro -level as well as knowledge of mechanical and heat effects acting on the la yer of the workpiece including the type and condition of the grinding wheel . An all-inclusive consideration of the numerous influences of the kind and condition of the tool on the changes on the surface and in the surface lay er of the workpiece in the given machining conditions is described by the t erm "surface integrity". (C) 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved .