Structured abrasive article

Abstract

An abrasive article includes an array of protruding abrasive units. Each unit has a base and a distal apex that is off-center from the base when projected on to a plane that is coplanar with the base. The abrasive article includes a backing bonded to an abrasive coating formed to include the aforementioned abrasive units. Methods for making the abrasive article include nipping a production tool, an abrasive slurry, and the backing. A binder within the slurry is cured during fabrication. The abrasive article may be used to abrade a workpiece.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION This invention pertains to an abrasive array, an abrasive article, a method of making such an abrasive article and a method of using such an abrasive article. The abrasive article comprises a backing having an abrasive coating bonded to at least one surface of the backing. The abrasive coating is shaped to include protruding units exhibiting useful geometries. BACKGROUND Abrasive articles have been utilized to abrade and finish workpieces surfaces for well over a hundred years. These applications have ranged from high stock removal, high pressure metal grinding processes to fine polishing of ophthalmic lenses. In general abrasive articles comprise a plurality of abrasive particles bonded either together (e.g., a bonded abrasive or grinding wheel) or to a backing (e.g., a coated abrasive). For a coated abrasive there is typically a single, or sometimes two layers of abrasive particles. Once these abrasive particles are worn, the coated abrasive is essentially...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

Importantly, the structured abrasive taught by Peiper results in a relatively high rate of cut and a relatively fine surface finish on the workpiece surface.

Although structured abrasives, such as the one taught by Pieper exhibit desirable characteristics, such as a high cut rate, structured abrasives still tend to lose their effectiveness over time.

Such deterioration in cut rate is inimical to the goal of providing efficient abrasion technology.

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