Influence of abrasive grain geometry on friction coefficient and wear rate in belt finishing

We focus our study on belt finishing process using a 3D model with multi-asperity abrasive wear on real rough surfaces. The established model allows determining the effect of the local geometry of abrasive grain on the friction coefficient and wear rate. This study shows that the friction coefficient and wear rate increase with the local slopes of the roughness. With the increase of the macroscopic normal load, the wear rate increases rapidly. Such effect is related to the increase of the cutting force of each grain leading to the transition in dominant wear mode from ploughing to wedging and cutting.

► 3D model was established to study the friction and wear rate in belt finishing.
► Nonlinear evolution of the tangential force vs. the normal load is observed.
► The friction and wear increase with increasing abrasive grains size.
► Good correlation between numerical and experimental friction coefficients.