Finishing of Metal Mould for Free-Form Surface Using Elastic Polishing Tool

摘要

In this paper, we describe a new polishing method which is effective for various die- mould geometries, especially sharp comers and the bottom surfaces of deep holes. In this method, an elastic tool made of polymer plastic resin will abrasive particles contained in it is used. The operating principle and procedure are as follows. When the cylindrical elastic tool is pressed onto the mould surface, Poisson strain occurs and the abrasive particles embedded in the tool surface move radially and polish the mould surface. Many repetitions of the compressive action result in a smooth mould surface. It is also possible to use the tool as a conventional polishing tool as well as a grinding wheel. Experimental results showed that the proposed method can he used to finish moulds with complex shape.