Load Bearing Analysis of Titanium Surface Ground with CBN Wheel and 6% CNT-CBN Wheel

Abstract

Surface integrity is an important factor in the effective functioning of a component. For this reason, the surface finish is given as meticulous attention as possible, while quality checks are rigorous. The process parameters affecting surface roughness are carefully controlled, with many preventive measures enforced to avoid deviation from the tolerance limits. Surface finish is an important part of the load-bearing properties of a surface as the asperities on its surface first come into contact with the mating surfaces. On contact, the asperities are flattened, and there is debris formation. These asperities are critical in joint replacements where Titanium is a material of choice, as the debris can react with bones and even cause necrosis of bone. The surface finish of Titanium is important as the asperities can function as points of stress when subjected to loads. Stress concentrators are detrimental to a material’s life; therefore, a part’s surface finish becomes critical. This research work has studied the surface finish of a titanium grade 5 alloy by grinding it with a novel grinding wheel with 6% carbon nanotubes (CNTs) electroplated along with cubic boron nitride (CBN) grits in a nickel matrix. The surface finish has improved from the commercially available grinding wheel and has increased the load-bearing capacities of the Titanium workpiece significantly.