Micro-profile grinding system with ELID process for precision tool and die fabrication

摘要

A micro-profile grinding system by the Electrolytic In-Process Dressing (ELID) technique was developed for precision tool and die fabrication. A profile grinder with an optical projection system was employed for the prototype machine, and V-face Cast Iron Bond Diamond (CIB-D) grinding wheels were mounted on the machine. A new electro-discharge profile truing process using V-face metallic bond wheels was also devised for the profile grinding system with ELID. The grinding wheels with micro-radius profile and fine diamond grains were used on the machine to assist the maintenance of the profile accuracy and micro-grain protrusions. This profile grinding process successfully achieved high form accuracy and surface quality in the profile and finish grinding of complicated tools made of hard materials such as cemented carbide, quenched steel, ceramics, etc., indicating that it can be applied to the manufacture of such high-tech products as lead-frame stamping punches for semiconductor fabrications, precision plastic moulds, micro-tools, etc.