Acoustic emission in dressing of grinding wheels: AE intensity, dressing energy, and quantification of dressing sharpness and increase in diamond wear-flat size

Although significant work has been done on the application of acoustic emission (AE) to grinding and to dressing of grinding wheels, several fundamental AE relationships between have not been established. These are: 1) the relationship between dressing energy and the measured AE signal; 2) how different diamond/grit contact modes (fracture, plastic deformation, rubbing, etc.) affect AE energy; and 3) how this can be used to quantify dressing efficiency, wheel sharpness and wear-induced changes in diamond shape. This paper describes an investigation into these fundamental concepts, with quantification of the relationship between AE intensity and dressing energy and the influence of different diamond/grit contact modes. A new parameter is introduced, the specific acoustic-emission dressing energy, which can be used to quantify dressing efficiency and wheel sharpness. Finally, the use of the AE intensity in evaluating diamond wear is explored, allowing the operator to know the size of the wear flat and when changes are necessary to avoid workpiece burn. Experimental work validates these concepts and practical recommendations are given on its application in industry.