On the periodicity of fixed-abrasive planetary lapping based on a generic model

Fixed-abrasive planetary lapping process can be considered as one of the most widely-used finishing technologies to produce high-quality surfaces. However, most of the previous studies (i) neither considered the eccentricity between the pad rotation and the workpiece revolution, (ii) nor provided the full-time process details. More importantly, most of the previous models were unable to accurately quantify the periodic cycle duration. To fill this gap, this paper proposed the generic analytical model of the periodicity in the fixed-abrasive planetary lapping process. The model can calculate key lapping details in both the time and spatial domains (e.g. cycle duration, effective trajectory number, and lapping mark pattern), which were then compared and validated by the experimental trials. Based on the validated model, the effect of each lapping parameter on the periodicity was discussed for the first time. The proposed model and key findings in this study are anticipated to be not only meaningful to lay the theoretical foundation of lapping technology, but also useful to provide the practical guidance for both lapping parameter optimisation and lapping pad design in the industrial manufacturing sector.