AN ENERGY ANALYSIS OF BELT POLISHING PROCESS AND ITS APPLICATIONS TO TIME CYCLE AND TRACKING EFFECTS

Abstract

Belt polishing is a fine machining process widely used to improve surface texture and to increase wear resistance and fatigue life. Despite the basics of this manufacturing process are not yet well understood, the cycle–time and the belt oscillations frequency are considered as fundamental process variables. In this article, their effects on the surface characterization and on the form aspects are investigated in connection with the principal physical mechanisms activated during the superfinishing operations (cutting, ploughing and sliding). With this aim, an energy approach of the belt polishing process, coupled with SEM observations of the abrasive belt, is introduced. Two belt polishing energetic regimes are identified and then discussed.