Selected problems in evaluating topography of coated abrasives

The paper presents some problems connected with the topography of coated abrasives. Various classes of coating are discussed, ranging from conventional single-layer ones to modern engineered coatings of the TRIZACT type. Actual parameters of the active face for various makes are given. Principal in-service properties of abrasive belts are discussed: instantaneous grinding efficiency and variation in surface roughness of the machined workpiece. A grinding process model is outlined which, after completion, will be capable of controlling precisely automated grinding operations using coated abrasives.