Thermal modelling of surface grinding using implicit finite element techniques

A finite element model is proposed to simulate the precision and ultraprecision grinding of steel and to describe the temperature fields developed during the process. The grinding is modelled using the commercial implicit finite element code MARC. In order to obtain the input data required for the model and to examine the heat damage induced to the workpiece, a series of experiments was performed with the same grinding conditions, but using different aluminium oxide grinding wheels of different bonding on the same work material. Comparison between numerical results obtained from the proposed model and experimental predictions, as well as numerical and analytical calculations reported in the literature, revealed a good agreement between theory and practice, indicating therefore that the model may be suitable for industrial applications.