Laser Surface Preparation of Vitrified Grinding Wheels

A new method for surface cleaning loaded grinding wheels is introduced by applying CO2 laser irradiation onto the grinding wheel surface. It was demonstrated that effective cleaning can be achieved by selection of the laser power flux and the duration of the irradiation. Fusion and evaporation of clogged metal chips play important roles in the laser cleaning process. It is suggested that high laser power irradiance and short irradiation duration are essential for effective grinding wheel cleaning.