Tech Talk
What are "Vitrifed Bond Wheels"?
Vitrified bond wheels, also referred to as ceramic bond wheels, provide higher bonding strength than resin bond wheels. They also enable the manufacturer to vary the basic strength and chip clearance by altering the porosity and structure of the wheel. Concentration levels range from 50% to 200%. The flexibility of the vitreous bond system makes it possible to condition the surface of this type of wheel to achieve a broad range of metal removal rates and surface finish characteristics. As a result, vitreous bonds are becoming more important in production grinding applications. These wheels are free-cutting, produce good surface finishes, have good wear resistance, and retain straightness and form very well. The porosity or open structure of vitrified grinding wheels can be controlled to provide chip clearance, allow coolant in and prevent wheel loading.
Vitrified bond wheels can be crushed and rotary diamond dresser formed, they are used for creep-feed grinding. Vitrified bond wheels have numerous positive characteristics: very good abrasion resistance; good form holding capabilities; long life; generally easier to true and dress than other systems; on line dressing capabilities; can generate a broader range of surface finishes; concentrations of 150 % to 200% can produce best finishes; least resistance to damage due to mishandling and setup.
