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10
Modern Abrasive Processes
10.1 Ultrasonic Machining
Ultrasonic machining (USM) is the removal of hard and brittle materials
using an axially oscillating tool at ultrasonic (US) frequency (18–20 kHz).
During that oscillation, the abrasive slurry of B
4
C or SiC is continuously fed
into the machining zone, between a soft tool (brass or steel) and the work-
piece. The abrasive particles are, therefore, hammered into the workpiece
surface and cause chipping of ne particles from it. The oscillating tool, at
amplitude ranging from 10 to 40 μm, imposes a static pressure on the abra-
sive grains and feeds down as the material is removed to form the ...