Experiment research on grind-hardening of AISI5140 steel based on thermal compensation

The grind-hardening process utilizes the heat generated to induce martensitic phase transformation. However, the maximum achievable harden layer depth is limited due to high grinding forces, and the tensile residual stress appears on the ground surface in the grind-hardening process. This paper proposes a new grind-hardening technology using thermal compensation. The workpiece of AISI5140 steel is preheated by electric resistance heating, and ground under the condition of the workpiece temperature 25°C, 120°C, 180°C and 240°C. The grinding force, harden layer depth and surface quality including residual stress on ground surface, surface roughness and micro-hardness are investigated. The experimental results show that a deep harden layer with a fine grain martensite can be obtained with the thermal compensation. The ground workpiece surface produces a certain compressive residual stress, and the residual compressive stress value increases with preheating temperature. As the preheating temperature increases, grinding force slightly decreases, while there is slightly increment of surface roughness. Compared with the conventional grind-hardening process, both the harden layer depth and residual stress distribution are significantly improved.