The Influence of External Conditions on the Mechanical Properties of Resin-bonded Grinding Wheels

The paper presents the ageing effects on mechanical and functional properties of resin-bonded grinding wheels with Aluminium oxide and Silicon carbide. The measurements provided the basis for the design of a temporary model of changes. Furthermore, the influence of humidity as the most likely cause for a steep downgrade in the mechanical properties of grinding wheels was examined and identified. Within that context, the system of forced, i.e. accelerated ageing of grinding wheels (additional humidification) was used under special atmospheric conditions. The model mechanisms for changing microstructures during ageing are presented and are based on the microstructural characterisation of grinding wheels that were exposed to different thermo-mechanical impacts These mechanisms confirm the most likely cause for ageing as established empirically, and therewith related changes of the mechanical properties of grinding wheels. Furthermore, the findings are useful in the process of manufacturing grinding wheels, helping to improve mechanical properties and most of all, considerably slowing down the ageing process, and providing higher added value to such products.