An application of lubrication theory to predict useful flow-rate of coolants on grinding porous media

By considering both hydrodynamic pressure and ram pressure effects on flow through the grinding zone, we construct a predictive model for calculating the useful flow-rate of coolants on grinding porous media. The hydrodynamic pressure is computed by means of a modified Reynolds equation for porous media, with upstream boundary conditions supplied by the ram pressure. To find the tangential velocity, the radial velocity, the depth of fluid penetrating into the wheel, and the flow-rate through the grinding zone, we solve momentum and continuity equations for flow through a porous wheel. Numerical results indicate that for a lower porosity of workpiece, the hydrodynamic pressure is higher and the fluid penetrating into the pores of wheel is deeper. Also, the useful flow-rate increases as the porosity of workpiece increases. (C) 1997 Elsevier Science Ltd.