The 'Zeeko Classic' polishing process is implemented in a series of CNC machine-tools. The standard tooling utilizes inflated membranes ('bonnet') covered with standard polishing cloths, and flooded by a supply of re-circulating polishing slurry. The usual input quality is a part off a precision CNC grinding machine, and the process both polishes and corrects form. In this paper we demonstrate how dynamic range can be substantially extended using three distinct Zeeko Grolishing processes that are hybrids between loose-abrasive polishing and bound-abrasive grinding. The output quality and volumetric removal rates of these processes are compared and contrasted. Finally, we note how these hybrid processes can extend the capabilities of the machine from polishing and form control, to smoothing parts with inferior input-quality, removing larger volumes of material during form control, and addressing harder materials.

Date Published: 21 September 2007
PDF: 9 pages
Proc. SPIE 6671, Optical Manufacturing and Testing VII, 66711H (21 September 2007); doi: 10.1117/12.735488

Published in SPIE Proceedings Vol. 6671:
Optical Manufacturing and Testing VII
James H. Burge; Oliver W. Faehnle; Ray Williamson, Editor(s)