Implementation of Thermal Models in Grinding

A thermal model has been implemented in industrial operations where reliability and robustness are important. To fully exploit the potential and usefulness of the thermal model it is necessary to tune the model to accommodate a wide range of wheel / workpiece combinations whilst also satisfying different quality criteria. Implementation is relatively simple and thermal damage to the workpiece can be avoided in most grinding operations. The monitoring process can also be used to aid in optimising dressing intervals or as a tool to identify deteriorating conditions. It is important to understand how to develop and implement strategies to satisfy different user needs. This paper reports on issues associated with tuning the model. Guidance is provided to assist with implementation of the thermal model either as a stand alone monitoring tool or as a fully integrated embedded feature of an intelligent control system. The paper has been prepared in response to queries on this matter from industrial practitioners.