Surface grinding is carried out with the intention of achieving a desired surface finish. The right surface finish plays a pivotal role in determining the functionality, durability and quality of the finished product. The correct surface finish ensures that the component is resistant to wear and corrosion and ensures it performs as desired under pressure.
What is surface finish, how is it measured, and what is the role of a grinding surface finish chart?
What is a surface finish?
Surface finish refers to the quality and texture of a surface after a machining process. Surface finish is a crucial consideration during the grinding process, and it is defined by various parameters that quantify the irregularities and deviations present on the surface. Achieving the desired surface finish is essential to ensure the performance and durability of the machined part. A grinding surface chart will be used to identify different surface finish parameters and their corresponding values.
Types of surface finishes
A grinding surface finish chart will list different surface finish parameters and their corresponding numerical values. These include:
● Ra (Average Roughness): This represents the values of the roughness profile deviations from the mean line within the evaluation length.
● Rz (Maximum Height): This measures the vertical distance between the highest peak and the lowest valley within the evaluation length.
● Rq (Root Mean Square): This calculates the root mean square average of the surface profile deviations from the mean.
● Rt (Total Roughness): This represents the total height of surface irregularities, such as peaks and valleys.
● Rp (Profile Peak Height): This parameter measures the height of the highest peak on the surface profile.
● Rv (Profile Valley Depth): This refers to the average depth of the core region of the roughness profile, excluding the extreme peaks and valleys.
Different parameters from the grinding surface finish chart will be more relevant to different applications.
Does a surface finish affect how a part functions?
Achieving the correct surface finish is critical to ensure that the component meets the requirements of its intended application. A smoother surface finish will result in less friction, and better lubrication retention, and can improve the performance and longevity of the part. A rougher surface may increase friction, accelerating wear, and compromising the functionality and reliability of the part.
What factors affect a surface finish?
Factors such as grinding parameters, the characteristics of the grinding wheel, the machine stability, and the selection and application of coolant and lubrication, will all impact the quality of the surface finish. The other significant factor in the surface finish outcome will be the properties, hardness, and metallurgical structure of the workpiece material.
How to improve a surface finish
To achieve the best results from the surface grinding process it’s essential to optimise grinding parameters by making use of a grinding surface finish chart. The correct grinding wheel should be selected, and the grinding process should be effectively controlled paying attention to factors such as the application of coolant and lubrication as well as machine stability.
High-Quality Grinding Machines from Sparx
If you’re looking for a high-quality grinding machine, then Sparx Machine Tools can help. Our range can help you enhance precision and productivity in your operations.
At Sparx, our experienced team are always on hand to advise about surface grinding machines and safe practices.
To find out more, call us on 01202 830840 or complete the contact form and we will get back to you.