Experimental studies of the magnetic fluid grinding process have previously
established that it is an abrasive grinding process. Sliding between the m
aterial being ground (for example, a ceramic ball being finished) and the g
rinding surface occurs because of viscous drag forces and torques acting on
the ground material as it is driven through a magnetic liquid. Mechanical
models of the process have qualitatively predicted trends in grinding rates
resulting from changes in operating conditions, but have not been quantita
tively accurate. This paper establishes that the reason is inaccurate model
ling, in the previous work, of the fluid drag forces and torques. Improved
modelling now gives accurate prediction of the motions in a grinding cell.
Interactions between balls travelling in a train and gyroscopic effects are
also reported on., they are of secondary importance in influencing slip ma
gnitude at the grinding surface but do provide mechanisms for randomizing b
all motions.