Norton introduces naturally porous Vortex 2 grinding wheel
Saint-Gobain Abrasives company Norton is offering Vortex 2 technology for creep feed grinding. Vortex 2 is a high quality, highly permeable, free-cutting grinding wheel that maximises coolant diffusion in the grinding zone. An innovative formula for bonding the fused alumina grain at optimal spacing in the matrix leads to improved chip clearance and reduced friction. The result is high productivity, long wheel life and minimal risk of unwanted metallurgical changes and residual stresses in the workpiece, says Norton.
Furthermore, the patented Vortex 2 grain technology produces naturally occurring environment friendly porosity and does not require the use of chemical pore inducers during the manufacturing process.
Saint-Gobain Abrasives' experimental data on metal removal using Vortex 2. show a 40% increase in longevity, cycle time reductions of up to 60% due to increased depths of cut and much better holding of the dressed form across the width of the wheels. This allows 37.5% higher metal removal rates than previous generation wheels, says Norton.
The green-coloured wheels come in five grit sizes from 46 to 120, four hardness grades and four structures ranging from a less open matrix for improved form-holding and lower wheel wear to a more open structure for higher metal removal rates and use on heat-sensitive parts.
