Get the job done with ceramic abrasives from Grinding Techniques

Ceramic abrasives are one of the latest innovations in grain technology. This high-performing grain features very small fracture planes which allow each grain to constantly re-sharpen as is wears away, providing fast cutting action throughout its usable life. They provide the best longevity and highest cut rate of all abrasives. Delivering the ultimate in performance, ceramic grains will produce an aggressive, consistent cut under moderate to high pressure, providing consistent stock removal.

Ceramic grain is known as a manufactured or artificial abrasive mineral whereas Emery and Garnet are examples of natural abrasives that is found in nature. Manufactured or artificial abrasives are produced scientifically through various processes, creating a newest technologically advanced mineral with specific qualities that natural minerals do not have.

So how is ceramic alumina made?
A chemical procedure of creating a colloidal solution referred to as sol is used. This solution basically contains tiny particles of aluminium oxide in a liquid medium. For easy reference one can think of caramelised sugar. In its natural form sugar has fine granules, but once mixed with water it becomes a liquid-like structure that still contains all the tiny granules.

Ceramic alumina is a result of the sol-gel process which is created by particles of aluminium oxide in the sol mixture. The mixture is then dried under controlled temperatures resulting in the mineral releasing from the bonding agent.

The final step in creating ceramic abrasive grain is the sintering process. Heat treatment causes the powdered grains to shrink making them stronger and denser. Ceramic grain is a friable abrasive, which allows it to fracture continuously when exposed to heat and pressure in the grinding process, continuously exposing new and sharp cutting edges throughout its lifetime. This ensures that a very consistent metal removal rate and surface finish is achieved over longer periods of time.

Typical applications where ceramic abrasives would be beneficial, could include but is not limited to tough and hard to grind materials, heat and burn sensitive materials and applications where the output of parts in high volumes within the shortest time possible is a requirement.

Should a cutting or grinding application involve exotic materials such as superalloys or stainless-steel then ceramic abrasive minerals are sure to outperform most other abrasives. Due to its self-sharpening ability and severe toughness, ceramic grains will not dull as quickly as other conversional grains, and due to the fast-cutting action of ceramic grains, the material removed is far superior to any other conventional abrasive grain in the same amount of time.

The quality of abrasives depend on numerous parameters such as the amount of grain and weight per unit area, bonding agent, and curing temperatures. These parameters have been defined with a view to production and is substantiated by quality insurance measures after every manufacturing step for each product. Not only do we manufacture abrasive products according to ISO standards, but we also strive to consistently meet and exceed maximum standards to ensure compliance with strict customer requirements.

Grinding Techniques’ Superflex and Andor range is locally manufactured and boast a variety of different abrasives for almost every kind of application with the aim to provide the best abrasive solution for your application need, actively, objectively, and reliably.

For further information contact Grinding Techniques on TEL: 011 271 6400 or email info@grindtech.com or visit www.grindtech.com