Distribution Characteristics of Sub-Surface Cracks in Fused Quartz Ground with Different Worn Wheels

The crack distribution characteristics in grinding damage have a significant impact on subsequent polishing efficiency and part strength. Grinding tests were carried out on fused quartz using grinding wheels with different wear states. The results showed that the cracks produced by sharp abrasive grits were mainly near chevron cracks and had no preferred direction. However, the blunt abrasive grits produced near partial cone cracks had a preferred direction. At a depth of 96.7 μm from the surface, the amount of cracks in the range of 50°~90° with an inclination angle between the crack and the cutting direction could reach 88.9%. The statistical results showed that the depth and total length of cracks produced by sharp grits were larger than those produced by blunt grits (the maximum crack depth difference was about 40 μm). Therefore, it was concluded that sharp abrasive grits were not conducive to damage control. The findings of this research enhance our understanding of the formation mechanism of grinding damage.