Modelling and prediction of surface textures after abrasive machining processes: A review

Surface texture can affect corrosion resistance, wear resistance, and contact stiffness. Modelling and prediction of textures after abrasive machining processes are useful in describing the quality of machined surfaces, leading to reduction in the production cost. In this paper, methods of modelling surface textures created by abrasive processes are critically reviewed. The modelling procedures take into account methods of surface creation. The models can be divided into physical process models based on machining theory and empirical models based on experimental design, or artificial intelligence. This paper is focused on physical process models. Special attention is paid to grinding, honing and polishing processes, but other treatments are considered. The state-of-the-art and future research directions are recognised. Although new numerical models allow one to generate areal surface topography, typically only amplitude parameters of modelled and measured textures are compared. Modelling methods should be validated on a larger number of surface texture parameters. Modelled and measured surfaces should be compared based on differences between their ordinates.