Grindability and microstructural effect of nickel-based superalloys in magnetic field-assisted ultra-precision grinding

The nickel-based superalloy Inconel 718 is essential in the aerospace and automotive industries due to its exceptional mechanical strength, fatigue resistance, and resistance to corrosion and oxidation. However, machining nickel-based alloys poses significant challenges in ultra-precision grinding (UPG), resulting in excessive grinding wheel vibration and poor surface quality. This study introduces an innovative magnetic field-assisted ultra-precision grinding (MFAUPG) technology, representing an advancement in the application of magnetic fields to assist grinding processes. A theoretical model was developed that links magnetic fields to grinding dynamics, elucidating the electromagnetic damping effects that significantly reduce wheel vibration and improve grinding performance. Experimental results reveal microstructural changes in Inconel 718 under magnetic field influence, including reduced grain size, deformation, and dislocation movement. Furthermore, the study elucidates the effects of magnetic fields on thermodynamics and recrystallization during the grinding process. These findings provide critical insights into the behavior of materials under magnetic field-assisted conditions, offering a promising solution to improve the grindability and surface integrity of difficult-to-machine nickel-based superalloys. The research underscores the potential of MFAUPG to achieve ultra-precision machining and enhance mechanical properties, thereby laying the groundwork for future innovations in economically sustainable grinding practices.