Analysis of Microstructure of Grinding Strengthening Layer in Point Grinding under Small Depth of Cut Conditions

Grinding strengthening and hardening can change and improve the ground surface integrity directly by the composite process of thermal load and mechanical force during process. The thickness and distribution of strengthening layer in ground surface makes the key role to measure the surface integrity of workpiece. The hardness and size of strengthening layer can influence the fatigue strength working life of the workpiece significantly. Based on the grinding strengthening test of 45 steel specimens, the strengthened layer microstructure, thickness and surface hardness were analyzed. This study illustrates the mechanism of grinding strengthened layer formation and also provides the theoretical basis for grinding strengthening and hardening layer quality control and grinding strengthening process making properly under small depth of cut conditions.