Grinding ceramics containing preformed cracks

Diamond grinding of ceramics creates an interaction of complex elastic/plastic deformations within the ceramic workpiece. These deformations cause cracking on the surface and in the bulk of the ceramic, where cracks of different types, locations and characteristics can be produced. During grinding, cracks may propagate, open or close. This paper describes the production of cracks during the grinding of silicon nitride. Radial, median and lateral cracks are identified and the type of crack produced is linked to grinding parameters such as grit size, bond type, depth of cut, feed rate, etc.