Test Forms Available for Abrasive Product Applications
Norton has test forms available for all abrasive product applications. Contact us to request these forms. Available here are general coated abrasive and bonded abrasive test forms. As you can see by these test forms, abrasive product testing involves many factors. The output of a material removal or surface finishing application can be altered by the variation of any input. Varying the product is only one way of achieving the desired result. All inputs into the system must be considered and can be changed in order to achieve the goals of the process. This is called the systems approach.
The Systems Approach requires simultaneous consideration of scientific fundamental and engineering practices, as well as cost effectiveness and strategic implementation of management. This type of concurrent thought process focuses on solving a problem by looking at the system as a whole, not by simply executing a task. Therefore, before testing any product on any application, research, preparation and planning are key to success!
Contact your local distributor or Norton sales representative to find out more.
Expert Advice
Using the Systems Approach for Abrasive Product Testing
1. Establish the OBJECTIVE.
2. PREPARE for the test.
3. RECORD the results.
4. EVALUATE the results.
1. Establish the OBJECTIVE.
What are the desired result(s) for testing, for example: To reduce abrasive costs, New operation or machinery, To reduce cycle time, To reduce rejections, To improve finish and/or geometry, Change in material, coolant, etc, Increase parts per dress, Shorter cycle time.
2. PREPARE for the test.
Have sufficient parts on hand. Choose machine and parts of representative condition. Inform the operator and supervisor of the OBJECTIVES. Run all tests on the same machine. Try to eliminate variables such as diamond condition, wheel size, and part size.
3. RECORD the results.
Don't rely on memory or word of mouth. Use a Test Data Form to set and capture all the pertinent test information. Record operating parameters. Record test results. Be open to changing parameters. To improve current results, change grinding parameters by increasing wheel infeed, reducing the number of dresses, and/or reducing dress infeed.
4.
EVALUATE the results.
Determine what the data means in relation to your OBJECTIVE. Look at the total cost picture. Use the attached Evaluation and Cost Analysis Form to determine:
- Abrasive cost.
- Diamond cost.
- Labor and overhead.
- Cost of rejections/rework.
- Wheel change/downtime.
- Other criteria such as finish, form, and metallurgical damage.