Patent Grant
10351745
The following is directed to shaped abrasive particles, and more particularly, to composite shaped abrasive particles having certain features and methods of forming such composite shaped abrasive particles.
Abrasive articles incorporating abrasive particles are useful for various material removal operations including grinding, finishing, polishing, and the like. Depending upon the type of abrasive material, such abrasive particles can be useful in shaping or grinding various materials in the manufacturing of goods. Certain types of abrasive particles have been formulated to date that have particular geometries, such as triangular shaped abrasive particles and abrasive articles incorporating such objects. See, for example, U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,201,916; 5,366,523; and 5,984,988.
Previously, three basic technologies that have been employed to produce abrasive particles having a specified shape, which are fusion, sintering, and chemical ceramic. In the fusion process, abrasive particles can be shaped by a chill roll, the face of which may or may not be engraved, a mold into which molten material is poured, or a heat sink material immersed in an aluminum oxide melt. See, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 3,377,660. In sintering processes, abrasive particles can be formed from refractory powders having a particle size of up to 10 micrometers in diameter. Binders can be added to the powders along with a lubricant and a suitable solvent to form a mixture that can be shaped into platelets or rods of various lengths and diameters. See, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 3,079,242. Chemical ceramic technology involves converting a colloidal dispersion or hydrosol (sometimes called a sol) to a gel or any other physical state that restrains the mobility of the components, drying, and firing to obtain a ceramic material. See, for example, U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,744,802 and 4,848,041. Other relevant disclosures on shaped abrasive particles and associated methods of forming and abrasive articles incorporating such particles are available at: http://www.abel-ip.com/publications/.
The industry continues to demand improved abrasive materials and abrasive articles.
According to a first aspect, a method of forming an abrasive particle includes forming a mixture and attaching a plurality of abrasive particles to at least one surface of the mixture and forming a shaped abrasive particle having a body and the plurality of abrasive particles bonded to at least one surface of the body.
In yet another aspect, an abrasive article includes a bond material and a first collection of abrasive particles coupled to the bond material, wherein each particle in the first collection comprises a shaped abrasive particle comprising a body and a plurality of abrasive particles bonded to at least one surface of the body of the shaped abrasive particle.
In another aspect, an abrasive particle includes a shaped abrasive particle comprising a body; and a plurality of abrasive particles bonded to at least one surface of the body of the shaped abrasive particle.
The present disclosure may be better understood, and its numerous features and advantages made apparent to those skilled in the art by referencing the accompanying drawings.
The following is directed to methods of forming shaped abrasive particles, and more particularly composite shaped abrasive particles including shaped abrasive particles and a plurality of abrasive particles overlying at least one surface of the body of the shaped abrasive particle. The abrasive particles of the embodiments herein may be used in various abrasive articles, including for example bonded abrasive articles, coated abrasive articles, and the like. Alternatively, the shaped abrasive particle fractions of the embodiments herein may be utilized in free abrasive technologies, including for example grinding and/or polishing slurries.
The abrasive particles of the embodiments herein may be obtained through various processing methods, including but not limited to, printing, molding, pressing, stamping, casting, extruding, cutting, fracturing, heating, cooling, crystallizing, rolling, embossing, depositing, etching, scoring, drying, and a combination thereof. Particular methods of forming the shaped abrasive particles can include the formation of a mixture, such as a sol-gel, that can be shaped in an opening of a production tooling (e.g., a screen or mold), and formed into a precursor shaped abrasive particle. Screen printing methods of forming shaped abrasive particles are generally described in U.S. Pat. No. 8,753,558. A suitable method of forming shaped abrasive particles according to a conventional molding process is described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,201,916.
According to one particular embodiment, the process of forming the shaped abrasive particles can be a screen printing process.
The mixture 101 may contain a certain content of solid material, liquid material, and additives such that it has suitable rheological characteristics for use with the process detailed herein. That is, in certain instances, the mixture can have a certain viscosity, and more particularly, suitable rheological characteristics that form a shape-stable phase of material that can be formed through the process as noted herein. A dimensionally stable phase of material is a material that can be formed to have a particular shape and substantially maintain the shape for at least a portion of the processing subsequent to forming. In certain instances, the shape may be retained throughout subsequent processing, such that the shape initially provided in the forming process is present in the finally-formed object.
The mixture 101 can be formed to have a particular content of solid material, such as the ceramic powder material. For example, in one embodiment, the mixture 101 can have a solids content of at least about 25 wt %, such as at least about 35 wt %, or even at least about 38 wt % for the total weight of the mixture 101. Still, in at least one non-limiting embodiment, the solids content of the mixture 101 can be not greater than about 75 wt %, such as not greater than about 70 wt %, not greater than about 65 wt %, not greater than about 55 wt %, not greater than about 45 wt %, or not greater than about 42 wt %. It will be appreciated that the content of the solid material in the mixture 101 can be within a range between any of the minimum and maximum percentages noted above.
According to one embodiment, the ceramic powder material can include an oxide, a nitride, a carbide, a boride, an oxycarbide, an oxynitride, and a combination thereof. In particular instances, the ceramic material can include alumina. More specifically, the ceramic material may include a boehmite material, which may be a precursor of alpha alumina. The term “boehmite” is generally used herein to denote alumina hydrates including mineral boehmite, typically being Al2O3.H2O and having a water content on the order of 15%, as well as pseudoboehmite, having a water content higher than 15%, such as 20-38% by weight. It is noted that boehmite (including pseudoboehmite) has a particular and identifiable crystal structure, and therefore a unique X-ray diffraction pattern. As such, boehmite is distinguished from other aluminous materials including other hydrated aluminas such as ATH (aluminum trihydroxide), a common precursor material used herein for the fabrication of boehmite particulate materials.
Furthermore, the mixture 101 can be formed to have a particular content of liquid material. Some suitable liquids may include water. In more particular instances, the mixture 101 can have a liquid content of at least about 25 wt % for the total weight of the mixture 101. In other instances, the amount of liquid within the mixture 101 can be greater, such as at least about 35 wt %, at least about 45 wt %, at least about 50 wt %, or even at least about 58 wt %. Still, in at least one non-limiting embodiment, the liquid content of the mixture can be not greater than about 75 wt %, such as not greater than about 70 wt %, not greater than about 65 wt %, not greater than about 62 wt %, or even not greater than about 60 wt %. It will be appreciated that the content of the liquid in the mixture 101 can be within a range between any of the minimum and maximum percentages noted above.
Furthermore, to facilitate processing and forming shaped abrasive particles according to embodiments herein, the mixture 101 can have a particular storage modulus. For example, the mixture 101 can have a storage modulus of at least about 1×104 Pa, such as at least about 4×104 Pa, or even at least about 5×104 Pa. However, in at least one non-limiting embodiment, the mixture 101 may have a storage modulus of not greater than about 1×107 Pa, such as not greater than about 2×106 Pa. It will be appreciated that the storage modulus of the mixture 101 can be within a range between any of the minimum and maximum values noted above.
The storage modulus can be measured via a parallel plate system using ARES or AR-G2 rotational rheometers, with Peltier plate temperature control systems. For testing, the mixture 101 can be extruded within a gap between two plates that are set to be approximately 8 mm apart from each other. After extruding the gel into the gap, the distance between the two plates defining the gap is reduced to 2 mm until the mixture 101 completely fills the gap between the plates. After wiping away excess mixture, the gap is decreased by 0.1 mm and the test is initiated. The test is an oscillation strain sweep test conducted with instrument settings of a strain range between 0.01% to 100%, at 6.28 rad/s (1 Hz), using 25-mm parallel plate and recording 10 points per decade. Within 1 hour after the test completes, the gap is lowered again by 0.1 mm and the test is repeated. The test can be repeated at least 6 times. The first test may differ from the second and third tests. Only the results from the second and third tests for each specimen should be reported.
Furthermore, to facilitate processing and forming shaped abrasive particles according to embodiments herein, the mixture 101 can have a particular viscosity. For example, the mixture 101 can have a viscosity of at least about 4×103 Pa s, at least about 5×103 Pa s, at least about 6×103 Pa s, at least about 8×103 Pa s, at least about 10×103 Pa s, at least about 20×103 Pa s, at least about 30×103 Pa s, at least about 40×103 Pa s, at least about 50×103 Pa s, at least about 60×103 Pa s, or at least about 65×103 Pa s. In one non-limiting embodiment, the mixture 101 may have a viscosity of not greater than about 100×103 Pa s, such as not greater than about 95×103 Pa s, not greater than about 90×103 Pa s, or even not greater than about 85×103 Pa s. It will be appreciated that the viscosity of the mixture 101 can be within a range between any of the minimum and maximum values noted above. The viscosity can be measured in the same manner as the storage modulus as described above.
Moreover, the mixture 101 can be formed to have a particular content of organic materials including, for example, organic additives that can be distinct from the liquid to facilitate processing and formation of shaped abrasive particles according to the embodiments herein. Some suitable organic additives can include stabilizers, binders such as fructose, sucrose, lactose, glucose, UV curable resins, and the like.
Notably, the embodiments herein may utilize a mixture 101 that can be distinct from slurries used in conventional forming operations. For example, the content of organic materials within the mixture 101 and, in particular, any of the organic additives noted above, may be a minor amount as compared to other components within the mixture 101. In at least one embodiment, the mixture 101 can be formed to have not greater than about 30 wt % organic material for the total weight of the mixture 101. In other instances, the amount of organic materials may be less, such as not greater than about 15 wt %, not greater than about 10 wt %, or even not greater than about 5 wt %. Still, in at least one non-limiting embodiment, the amount of organic materials within the mixture 101 can be at least about 0.01 wt %, such as at least about 0.5 wt % for the total weight of the mixture 101. It will be appreciated that the amount of organic materials in the mixture 101 can be within a range between any of the minimum and maximum values noted above.
Moreover, the mixture 101 can be formed to have a particular content of acid or base, distinct from the liquid content, to facilitate processing and formation of shaped abrasive particles according to the embodiments herein. Some suitable acids or bases can include nitric acid, sulfuric acid, citric acid, chloric acid, tartaric acid, phosphoric acid, ammonium nitrate, and ammonium citrate. According to one particular embodiment in which a nitric acid additive is used, the mixture 101 can have a pH of less than about 5, and more particularly, can have a pH within a range between about 2 and about 4.
The system 150 of
In accordance with an embodiment, a particular pressure may be utilized during extrusion. For example, the pressure can be at least about 10 kPa, such as at least about 500 kPa. Still, in at least one non-limiting embodiment, the pressure utilized during extrusion can be not greater than about 4 MPa. It will be appreciated that the pressure used to extrude the mixture 101 can be within a range between any of the minimum and maximum values noted above. In particular instances, the consistency of the pressure delivered by a piston 199 may facilitate improved processing and formation of shaped abrasive particles. Notably, controlled delivery of consistent pressure across the mixture 101 and across the width of the die 103 can facilitate improved processing control and improved dimensional characteristics of the shaped abrasive particles.
Referring briefly to
As further illustrated, the production tool 151 can have openings 152 that are oriented in a particular manner relative to each other. As illustrated and in accordance with one embodiment, each of the openings 152 can have substantially the same orientation relative to each other, and substantially the same orientation relative to the surface of the production tool 151. For example, each of the openings 152 can have a first edge 154 defining a first plane 155 for a first row 156 of the openings 152 extending laterally across a lateral axis 158 of the production tool 151. The first plane 155 can extend in a direction substantially orthogonal to a longitudinal axis 157 of the production tool 151. However, it will be appreciated, that in other instances, the openings 152 need not necessarily have the same orientation relative to each other.
Moreover, the first row 156 of openings 152 can be oriented relative to a direction of translation to facilitate particular processing and controlled formation of shaped abrasive particles. For example, the openings 152 can be arranged on the production tool 151 such that the first plane 155 of the first row 156 defines an angle relative to the direction of translation 171. As illustrated, the first plane 155 can define an angle that is substantially orthogonal to the direction of translation 171. Still, it will be appreciated that in one embodiment, the openings 152 can be arranged on the production tool 151 such that the first plane 155 of the first row 156 defines a different angle with respect to the direction of translation, including for example, an acute angle or an obtuse angle. Still, it will be appreciated that the openings 152 may not necessarily be arranged in rows. The openings 152 may be arranged in various particular ordered distributions with respect to each other on the production tool 151, such as in the form of a two-dimensional pattern. Alternatively, the openings may be disposed in a random manner on the production tool 151.
Referring again to
Additionally, the system 151 can include a bottom stage 198 within the application zone 183. During the process of forming shaped abrasive particles, the belt 109 can travel over the bottom stage 198, which can offer a suitable substrate for forming the mixture 101.
During operation of the system 150, the production tool 151 can be translated in a direction 153 while the belt 109 can be translated in a direction 110 substantially similar to the direction 153, at least within the application zone 183, to facilitate a continuous printing operation. As such, the precursor shaped abrasive particles 123 may be printed onto the belt 109 and translated along the belt 109 to undergo further processing. It will be appreciated that such further processing can include processes described in the embodiments herein, including for example, shaping, application of other materials (e.g., plurality of abrasive particles), drying, sintering, and the like.
In some embodiments, the belt 109 and/or the production tool 151 can be translated while extruding the mixture 101 through the die opening 105. As illustrated in the system 100, the mixture 101 may be extruded in a direction 191. The direction of translation 110 of the belt 109 and/or the production tool 151 can be angled relative to the direction of extrusion 191 of the mixture 101. While the angle between the direction of translation 110 and the direction of extrusion 191 is illustrated as substantially orthogonal in the system 100, other angles are contemplated, including for example, an acute angle or an obtuse angle.
The belt 109 and/or the production tool 151 may be translated at a particular rate to facilitate processing. For example, the belt 109 and/or the production tool 151 may be translated at a rate of at least about 3 cm/s. In other embodiments, the rate of translation of the belt 109 and/or the production tool 151 may be greater, such as at least about 4 cm/s, at least about 6 cm/s, at least about 8 cm/s, or even at least about 10 cm/s. Still, in at least one non-limiting embodiment, the belt 109 and/or the production tool 151 may be translated in a direction 110 at a rate of not greater than about 5 m/s, not greater than about 1 m/s, or even not greater than about 0.5 m/s. It will be appreciated that the belt 109 and/or the production tool 151 may be translated at a rate within a range between any of the minimum and maximum values noted above, and moreover, may be translated at substantially the same rate relative to each other. Furthermore, for certain processes according to embodiments herein, the rate of translation of the belt 109 as compared to the rate of extrusion of the mixture 101 in the direction 191 may be controlled to facilitate proper processing.
After the mixture 101 is extruded through the die opening 105, the mixture 101 may be translated along the belt 109 under a knife edge 107 attached to a surface of the die 103. The knife edge 107 may define a region at the front of the die 103 that facilitates displacement of the mixture 101 into the openings 152 of the production tool 151.
Certain processing parameters may be controlled to facilitate formation of particular features of the precursor shaped abrasive particles 123 and the finally-formed shaped abrasive particles described herein. Some exemplary process parameters that can be controlled include a release distance 197, a viscosity of the mixture, a storage modulus of the mixture, mechanical properties of the bottom stage, geometric or dimensional characteristics of the bottom stage, thickness of the production tool, rigidity of the production tool, a solid content of the mixture, a carrier content of the mixture, a release angle, a translation speed, a temperature, a content of release agent, a pressure exerted on the mixture, a speed of the belt, a drying rate, a drying time, a drying temperature, and a combination thereof.
According to one embodiment, one particular process parameter can include controlling the release distance 197 between a filling position and a release position. In particular, the release distance 197 can be a distance measured in a direction 110 of the translation of the belt 109 between the end of the die 103 and the initial point of separation between the production tool 151 and the belt 109.
After extruding the mixture 101 into the openings 152 of the production tool 151, the belt 109 and the production tool 151 may be translated to a release zone 185 where the belt 109 and the production tool 151 can be separated to facilitate the formation of the precursor shaped abrasive particles 123. In accordance with an embodiment, the production tool 151 and the belt 109 may be separated from each other within the release zone 185 at a particular release angle.
Thereafter, the precursor shaped abrasive particles 123 may be translated through a series of optional zones wherein various treating processes may be conducted. Some suitable exemplary treating processes can include drying, heating, curing, reacting, radiating, mixing, stirring, agitating, planarizing, calcining, sintering, comminuting, sieving, doping, impregnating, humidifying, application of other abrasive particles to the body of the precursor shaped abrasive particles and a combination thereof. According to one embodiment, the precursor shaped abrasive particles 123 may be translated through an optional shaping zone 113, wherein at least one exterior surface of the particles may be shaped as described in embodiments herein. Furthermore, the precursor shaped abrasive particles 123 may be translated through an optional application zone 131, wherein a material, such as a dopant material and/or a plurality of abrasive particles can be applied to at least one exterior surface of the precursor shaped abrasive particles 123 as described in embodiments herein.
After forming precursor shaped abrasive particles 123, the particles may be translated through any post-forming zone 125. Various processes may be conducted in the post-forming zone 125, including treatment of the precursor shaped abrasive particles 123. In one embodiment, the post-forming zone 125 can include a heating process where the precursor shaped abrasive particles 123 may be dried. Drying may include removal of a particular content of material, including volatiles, such as water. In accordance with an embodiment, the drying process can be conducted at a drying temperature of not greater than about 300° C., such as not greater than about 280° C., or even not greater than about 250° C. Still, in one non-limiting embodiment, the drying process may be conducted at a drying temperature of at least about 50° C. It will be appreciated that the drying temperature may be within a range between any of the minimum and maximum temperatures noted above. Furthermore, the precursor shaped abrasive particles 123 may be translated through the post-forming zone 125 at a particular rate, such as at least about 0.2 feet/min and not greater than about 8 feet/min.
Furthermore, the drying process may be conducted for a particular duration. For example, the drying process may be not greater than about 6 hours, such as not greater than about 5 hours, not greater than about 4 hours, not greater than about 2 hours, or even not greater than about 1 hour. Still, the drying process may be at least about 1 minute, such as at least about 15 minutes or at least about 30 minutes. It will be appreciated that the drying duration may be within a range between any of the minimum and maximum temperatures noted above. For example, in at least one embodiment, the precursor shaped abrasive particles can be dried for a duration of 1 to 10 minutes, which may facilitate intentional fracturing at a predetermined stress concentration point and along a predetermined stress concentration vector.
After the precursor shaped abrasive particles 123 are translated through the post-forming zone 125, the precursor shaped abrasive particles 123 may be removed from the belt 109. The precursor shaped abrasive particles 123 may be collected in a bin 127 for further processing.
In accordance with an embodiment, the process of forming shaped abrasive particles may further comprise a sintering process. For certain processes of embodiments herein, sintering can be conducted after collecting the precursor shaped abrasive particles 123 from the belt 109. Alternatively, the sintering may be a process that is conducted while the precursor shaped abrasive particles 123 are on the belt 109. Sintering of the precursor shaped abrasive particles 123 may be utilized to densify the particles, which are generally in a green state. In a particular instance, the sintering process can facilitate the formation of a high-temperature phase of the ceramic material. For example, in one embodiment, the precursor shaped abrasive particles 123 may be sintered such that a high-temperature phase of alumina, such as alpha alumina, is formed. In one instance, a shaped abrasive particle can comprise at least about 90 wt % alpha alumina for the total weight of the particle. In other instances, the content of alpha alumina may be greater such that the shaped abrasive particle may consist essentially of alpha alumina.
In certain instances, another post forming process can include application of moisture to one or more surfaces of the gel mixture while it resides in the openings 152 or after formation of the precursor shaped abrasive particles 123 (i.e., after the mixture is removed from the openings of the production tool). Application of moisture may be referred to as humidification and may be conducted to facilitate the application of a plurality of particles to one or more surfaces of the mixture 101 and/or precursor shaped abrasive particles 123. In at least one embodiment, the application of moisture can include the deposition of moisture to one or more surface of the mixture while it resides in the openings 152 of the production tool 151 and/or to the precursor shaped abrasive particles 123. In another instance, wherein applying moisture can include wetting the at least one surface of the mixture 101 and/or precursor shaped abrasive particles 123 for a sufficient time to change a viscosity of an exterior region of the at least one surface relative to a viscosity at an interior region spaced apart from the exterior region. Moreover, it is noted that the application of moisture may facilitate gelation and sufficient bonding of the surface of the mixture 101 and/or precursor shaped abrasive particles 123 with a plurality of abrasive particles. According to one embodiment, the plurality of abrasive particles can be applied to the surface of the mixture 101 and/or precursor shaped abrasive particles 123 and the water on the surface can facilitate gelation of the material of the abrasive particles and moistened surface for improved bonding. Reference herein to the plurality of abrasive particles will include reference to various types of particles, including but not limited to, green or unsintered abrasive particles, sintered abrasive particles, and like.
The application of moisture can be selective, such that it is applied to at least one surface of the mixture 101 and/or precursor shaped abrasive particles 123, but may not necessarily be applied to another surface of the mixture 101 and/or precursor shaped abrasive particles 123. In one embodiment, the application of moisture can be completed by deposition of the moisture, including for example, by spraying moisture onto one or more surfaces of the mixture 101 and/or precursor shaped abrasive particles 123. In one embodiment, the application of moisture can include translating the mixture and/or precursor shaped abrasive particles through an environment having a particular moisture content. The humidity and temperature within the environment and the rate at which the mixture and/or precursor shaped abrasive particles 123 are translated through the environment may be controlled to create the particular moisture on at least one surface of the mixture 101 and/or precursor shaped abrasive particles 123. For example, applying moisture to the at least one surface of the mixture 101 and/or precursor shaped abrasive particles 123 can include directing a gas towards the one or more surfaces of the mixture 101 and/or precursor shaped abrasive particles 123. In more particular instances, the process of applying moisture can include directing water vapor and/or steam at the at least one surface of the mixture 101 and/or precursor shaped abrasive particles 123.
In still another embodiment, one or more devices having a particular moisture content may contact one or more surfaces of the mixture 101 and/or precursor shaped abrasive particles 123 to facilitate the application of moisture. For example, a sponge or other object having a suitable moisture content can contact one or more surfaces of the mixture 101 and/or precursor shaped abrasive particles 123.
Still, in another embodiment, another post forming process can include changing the viscosity of the mixture 101 and/or precursor shaped abrasive particles 123, to facilitate attachment of the plurality of abrasive particles to at least one surface. Changing the viscosity of the mixture can include deposition of a second material on the surface of the mixture 101 and/or precursor shaped abrasive particles 123 or using a process to alter the viscosity of the mixture 101 and/or precursor shaped abrasive particles 123 at an exterior region. For example, in certain instances, changing the viscosity can include application of a tacking material, such an organic or inorganic adhesive material. One or more of such materials may be selectively deposited on one or more surfaces of the mixture 101 and/or precursor shaped abrasive particles 123 to facilitate application of a plurality of abrasive particles to the surface.
In another embodiment, changing the viscosity can include application of one or more viscosity modifiers that may increase or decrease the viscosity of the mixture 101 and/or precursor shaped abrasive particles 123 at an exterior region compared to an interior region of the mixture 101 and/or precursor shaped abrasive particles 123 that is spaced apart from the exterior region and is not treated with the viscosity modifier. Such a change in viscosity may be suitable for attachment of the plurality of abrasive particles.
According to one embodiment, the process of forming the abrasive particles can include forming a mixture 101 and/or precursor shaped abrasive particle 123 and attaching a plurality of abrasive particles to at least one surface of the mixture 101 and/or at least one surface of the body of the precursor shaped abrasive particle 123. In certain instances, the process of attaching can happen in the application zone 131, wherein one or more application heads 132 can facilitate deposition of the plurality of abrasive particles onto the major exterior surfaces (e.g., the upper surfaces) of the precursor shaped abrasive particles 123. Various suitable processes for attaching the plurality of abrasive particles can include deposition processes such as blasting, projecting, pressing, gravity coating, molding, stamping, and a combination thereof. Still, it will be appreciated, that the application may happen while the mixture 101 resides in the production tool 151.
According to one embodiment, the process of attaching the plurality of abrasive particles can include forcibly projecting the plurality of abrasive particles toward at least one surface of the mixture 101 and/or precursor shaped abrasive particles 123. It will be appreciated that reference herein to attaching the plurality of abrasive particles to at least one surface can include attachment of the plurality of abrasive particles to a surface of the mixture 101 while the mixture is retained in the production tool 151 (e.g., mold or screen) or after the mixture 101 has been removed from the production tool 151 and the precursor shaped abrasive particles 123 have been formed. A portion or all of the mixture 101 and/or precursor shaped abrasive particles 123 can have the plurality of abrasive particles attached thereto. In at least one embodiment, forcibly projecting the plurality of abrasive particles onto the mixture 101 or precursor shaped abrasive particles 123 includes applying a controlled force to a deposition material including a carrier and the plurality of abrasive particles and embedding at least a portion of the plurality of abrasive particles into the surface of the mixture 101 or precursor shaped abrasive particles 123. For example, the deposition material can include a carrier, which may be a gas. Suitable gaseous materials may include water vapor, steam, an inert gas, air, or a combination thereof.
In at least one embodiment, the humidification of one or more surfaces of the mixture 101 and/or precursor shaped abrasive particles 123 and deposition of the abrasive particles may occur separately, and more specifically, the humidification process may happen before the deposition process. Still, in an alternative embodiment, the humidification process and deposition process may occur simultaneously as a mixture of water vapor and/or steam and the plurality of abrasive particles are directed to the at least one surface of the mixture 101 and/or precursor shaped abrasive particles 123.
The force or pressure used to project the carrier gas and plurality of abrasive particles may be adjusted to facilitate suitable attachment of the abrasive particles to the surface of the mixture 101 and/or precursor shaped abrasive particles 123. Notably, the force or pressure may be adapted based on one or more processing parameters, including but not limited to, the viscosity of the surface of the mixture 101 and/or precursor shaped abrasive particles 123, the median particle size of the plurality of abrasive particles, the content (weight or volume) of the plurality of abrasive particles being projected per unit of time, the humidity of the environment during projecting, the temperature during projecting, the translation speed of the production tool or gel, the desired level of coverage by the plurality of abrasive particles, or a combination thereof.
In at least one embodiment, the process of attaching the plurality of abrasive particles to the bodies of the precursor shaped abrasive particles can occur prior to substantial drying of the body. Notably, in certain instances, some moisture in the precursor shaped abrasive particles may facilitate suitable attachment of the plurality of abrasive particles. According to one embodiment, the process of attachment can occur such that the moisture content (i.e., weight percent of liquid) of the precursor shaped abrasive particle during attachment can be not greater than about 70% different than the moisture content of the mixture 101 when it is placed in the production tool 151. The percent difference can be calculated according to the formula [(Mc1−Mc2)/Mc1]×100%, where Mc1 is the moisture content of the mixture 101 during placement into the production tool 151 and Mc2 is the moisture content of the precursor shaped abrasive particle during attachment. In other instances, the moisture content of the precursor shaped abrasive particle during attachment can be not greater than about 60% different, such as not greater than about 50% different, not greater than about 40% different, not greater than about 30% different, not greater than about 20% different, or even not greater than about 10% different than the moisture content of the mixture 101 when it is placed into the production tool 151. Still, in at least one non-limiting embodiment, the moisture content of the precursor shaped abrasive particle during attachment can be substantially the same or exactly the same as the moisture content of the mixture 101 when it is placed into the production tool 151.
In at least one embodiment, the process of attaching the plurality of abrasive particles to the bodies of the precursor shaped abrasive particle can include humidifying the surface of the precursor shaped abrasive particle prior to attachment of the abrasive particles. For example, the moisture content at the surface of the precursor shaped abrasive particles can be increased prior to the attachment process, such that the moisture content can be nearly the same as or higher than the moisture content of the mixture 101 when it is disposed in the production tool 151.
According to another embodiment, the process of attaching the plurality of abrasive particles to the mixture 101 and/or body of the precursor shaped abrasive particles 123 can include deposition of the mixture 101 onto a layer of abrasive particles including the plurality of shaped abrasive particles. For example, the production tool can be prepared to have a layer of abrasive particles contained on a surface, onto which the mixture 101 is deposited and formed into a precursor shaped abrasive particle, such that the mixture 101 is deposited directly onto the plurality of abrasive particles. In such instances, the process of shaping the mixture 101 into the precursor shaped abrasive particles 123 and the attachment of the plurality of abrasive particles can be completed simultaneously. For example, the upper surface of the belt 109 can be prepared to contain a layer of abrasive particles and the mixture 101 can be extruded into the openings 152 of the production tool 151 and onto the layer of abrasive particles on the upper surface of the belt 109. The production tool 151 can then be removed from the belt 109 and the precursor shaped abrasive particles 123 can have a plurality of abrasive particles attached to their bottom surface, which was in contact with the belt 109. It will be appreciated that additional processes can be used to attach the plurality of abrasive particles to other surfaces, including a deposition process that attaches a plurality of abrasive particles to the upper surface of the mixture 101 and/or precursor shaped abrasive particles 123. It is contemplated that one or more processes can be used to attach a plurality of abrasive particles to one or more surfaces of the mixture 101 and/or body of the precursor shaped abrasive particles 123, including but not limited to the bottom surface, the upper surface, and side surfaces of the body of the precursor shaped abrasive particles 123.
In yet another embodiment, the mixture 101 and/or body of the precursor shaped abrasive particles 123 can be placed into a production tool that is translated over a substrate, wherein a plurality of abrasive particles are overlying the surface of the substrate. The substrate can be stamped into the side of the production tool and the mixture 101 and/or precursor shaped abrasive particles 123, such that the plurality of abrasive particles are deposited and at least partially embedded within the mixture 101 and/or precursor shaped abrasive particles 123.
According to one embodiment, the plurality of abrasive particles can be applied or bonded to the at least one surface of the body of the mixture 101 and/or precursor shaped abrasive particles 123 as unsintered particles. That is, the plurality of abrasive particles can be a raw material, which is to undergo further processing with the mixture 101 and/or precursor shaped abrasive particle 123 to form a sintered abrasive particle on the surface of the body of the shaped abrasive particle. For example, the plurality of abrasive particles can include a raw material including at least one material of the group of an oxide, a nitride, a carbide, a boride, an oxycarbide, an oxynitride, or a combination thereof. In particular instances, the plurality of abrasive particles can include boehmite or pseudoboehmite material and as noted above. The boehmite or pseudoboehmite material may be processed in the same manner as the mixture, including the addition of seed material, pinning agents, other additives, and the like. In one particular embodiment, the plurality of abrasive particles include the same material as contained in the mixture used to form the body of the shaped abrasive particle.
In one embodiment, the process can include drying the precursor shaped abrasive particles and plurality of abrasive particles after attaching the plurality of abrasive particles to the precursor shaped abrasive particles. Moreover, it will be appreciated that in certain instances, the process can include calcining the precursor shaped abrasive particle and plurality of abrasive particles after attaching the plurality of abrasive particles to the precursor shaped abrasive particles. Moreover, the process can include sintering the precursor shaped abrasive particle and plurality of abrasive particles after attaching the plurality of abrasive particles to the precursor shaped abrasive particles to form a composite shaped abrasive particle.
The system of
The tool can be translated to an ejection zone, where at least one ejection assembly can be configured to direct an ejection material at the mixture 101 contained within the cavities 152 and eject the mixture 101 from the cavities to form precursor shaped abrasive particles. The ejection material may include an aerosol comprising a gas phase component, a liquid phase component, a solid phase component, and a combination thereof.
According to one embodiment, shaped abrasive particle can include a first major surface 303, a second major surface (e.g., a bottom surface) opposite the first major surface, and a side surface extending between the first and second major surfaces. The plurality of abrasive particles 302 can be bonded to any surface of the body, including for example, the first major 303 of the body 301. In other instances, the plurality of abrasive particles 302 can be bonded to at least two surfaces of the body. For example, the plurality of abrasive particles 302 can be bonded to at least two major surfaces of the body 301, such as those surfaces having the greatest surface area compared to all surfaces of the body 301, which in the particle of
In certain instances, controlling the percent coverage of the plurality of abrasive particles on the body of the shaped abrasive particle may facilitate improved forming, deployment, and/or performance of the abrasive particle. For certain abrasive particles of the embodiments herein, the plurality of abrasive particles 302 can cover at least about 1% of the total surface area of the body 301 of the shaped abrasive particle. In other instances, the plurality of abrasive particles 302 covering the exterior surface of the body 301 of the shaped abrasive particle can be greater, such as at least about 5%, at least 10%, at least 20%, at least 30% at least 40% at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90% at least 95% or even at least 99% of the total surface area of the body 301 of the shaped abrasive particle. Still, in at least one embodiment, the plurality of abrasive particles 302 can cover not greater than 99%, such as not greater than 95%, not greater than 90%, not greater than 85%, not greater than 80%, not greater than 70%, not greater than 60%, not greater than 50%, not greater than 40%, not greater than 30%, not greater than 20%, or even not greater than 10% of the total surface area of the body 301 of the shaped abrasive particle. It will be appreciated that the plurality of abrasive particles 302 can cover a percentage of the total surface area of the body 301 of the shaped abrasive particle within a range including any of the minimum and maximum percentages noted above.
For certain abrasive particles of the embodiments herein, the coverage of the plurality of particles on one surface of the body of the shaped abrasive particle may be controlled to facilitate improved forming, deployment, and/or performance of the abrasive particle. For example, the plurality of abrasive particles 302 can cover at least about 1% of the total surface area of an exterior surface (e.g., first major surface, second major surface, side surface, etc.) of the body of the shaped abrasive particle. In other instances, the percent coverage of the plurality of abrasive particles on a given surface of the body of the shaped abrasive particle can be greater, such as at least about 5%, at least 10%, at least 20%, at least 30% at least 40% at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90% or even at least 95% or even at least 99% or even 100% of the total surface area of the body 301 of the shaped abrasive particle. Still, in at least one embodiment, the plurality of abrasive particles 302 can cover not greater than 100% such as not greater than 99% or not greater than 95%, not greater than 90%, not greater than 85%, not greater than 80%, not greater than 70%, not greater than 60%, not greater than 50%, not greater than 40%, not greater than 30%, not greater than 20%, or even not greater than 10% of the total surface area of the body 301 of the shaped abrasive particle. It will be appreciated that the plurality of abrasive particles 302 can cover a percentage of the total surface area of the body 301 of the shaped abrasive particle within a range including any of the minimum and maximum percentages noted above. For example, the plurality of abrasive particles can cover at least 1% and not greater than 99% of the total surface area of the first major surface. In yet another embodiment, the plurality of abrasive particles can cover at least 30% and not greater than 99% of the total surface area of the first major surface. In still another embodiment, the plurality of abrasive particles can cover at least 40% and not greater than 99% of the total surface area of the first major surface. According to another aspect, the plurality of abrasive particles can cover at least 80% and not greater than 99% of the total surface area of the first major surface.
For certain abrasive particles of the embodiments herein, the coverage of the plurality of particles on one surface of the body of the shaped abrasive particle may be controlled to facilitate improved forming, deployment, and/or performance of the abrasive particle. For example, in one embodiment, the abrasive particle may include at least 10 particles of the plurality of abrasive particles on a major surface of the body of the shaped abrasive particle. In still other instances, the number of particles of the plurality of abrasive particles on a first major surface of the body can be greater, such as at least 12 or at least 15 or at least 18 or at least 20 or at least 22 or at least 25 or at least 27 or at least 30. Still, depending upon the forming conditions, the average number of particles on a first major surface of the body can be not greater than 500, such as not greater than 400 or not greater than 300 or not greater than 200 or not greater than 100 or not greater than 80 or not greater than 60 or not greater than 50. It will be appreciated that the average number of abrasive particles on the first major surface of the body of the shaped abrasive particle can be within a range including any of the minimum and maximum values noted above. For example, the average number of abrasive particles can be at least 10 and not greater than 500, such as at least 10 and not greater than 200 or at least 15 and not greater than 200 or at least 20 and not greater than 100. Furthermore, it will be appreciated that such average numbers may be true for any other surfaces of the body of the shaped abrasive particle.
According to one embodiment, the plurality of abrasive particles 302 can account for at least 1 wt % of a total weight of the abrasive particle 300, such as at least 2 wt %, at least 3 wt %, at least 4 wt %, at least 5 wt %, at least 6 wt %, at least 7 wt %, at least 8 wt %, at least 9 wt %, at least 10 wt %, at least about 20 wt %, at least about 30 wt %, at least about 40 wt %, or even at least about 50 wt %. Still, in a non-limiting embodiment, the plurality of abrasive particles 302 can be not greater than about 80 wt %, such as not greater than about 60 wt %, not greater than about 40 wt %, not greater than about 30 wt %, or even not greater than about 20 wt %, not greater than 10 wt %, not greater than 8 wt %, not greater than 6 wt %, not greater than 5 wt, or not greater than 4 wt % or even not greater than 3 wt % of a total weight of the abrasive particle 300. It will be appreciated that the plurality of abrasive particles 302 can account for a particular weight percent of the total weight of the abrasive particle within a range including any of the minimum and maximum percentages noted above. It will also be appreciated that such percentages can represent an average value calculated for a plurality of abrasive particles, wherein each of the abrasive particles include a shaped abrasive particle having a plurality of abrasive particles bonded to at least one surface of the body of the shaped abrasive particle. Such average values are calculated from a random and statistically relevant sample size of abrasive particles.
The weight percent of the plurality of abrasive particles can be calculated by obtaining a first sample of the particles including a minimum of 300 mg of the abrasive particles having the plurality of abrasive particles bonded to at least one surface. The mass (M1) of the particles is measured. The particles are spread on a flat surface providing suitable contrast to accurately count the number of particles (N). A camera is used to take a picture of the particles and using suitable imaging software, (e.g., imageJ), the number of coated particles (N1) is counted. The average mass per grit (Mg1) of the grains with the plurality of abrasive particles is calculated according to the formula Mg1=M1/N1.
The same process is conducted for a sample of particles without the plurality of abrasive particles (i.e., bare abrasive particles). The average mass per grit (Mg2) is calculated for the bare sample. The average weight percentage of the plurality of abrasive particles is then calculated according to the formula 100×[(Mg2−Mg1)/Mg1].
The plurality of abrasive particles 302 may be selected from a particular type of material to facilitate suitable formation of the composite shaped abrasive particles. For example, the plurality of abrasive particles 302 can include a material from the group of oxides, carbides, nitrides, borides, oxycarbides, oxynitrides, oxyborides, natural minerals, synthetic materials, carbon-based materials, and a combination thereof. In one particular embodiment, the plurality of abrasive particles can include alumina, and more particularly can consist essentially of alpha alumina.
For at least one embodiment, the plurality of abrasive particles 302 can include a material having a particular coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) relative to the CTE of the body 301 that can facilitate improved forming, deployment, and/or performance of the abrasive particle. For example the plurality of abrasive particles 302 can have a CTE that is not greater than about 50% different than a CTE of the body 301 of the shaped abrasive particle according to the formula [(CTE1−CTE2)/CTE1]×100%, where CTE1 represents the higher CTE value relative to CTE2. In certain instances, the plurality of abrasive particles 302 can have a CTE that is less than the CTE of the body 301. In another embodiment, the plurality of abrasive particles 302 can have a CTE that is greater than the CTE of the body 301. Still, the plurality of abrasive particles 302 can have a CTE that is not greater than about 40% different, not greater than about 30% different, not greater than about 20% different, or even not greater than about 10% different compared to the CTE of the body 301. Still, in one non-limiting embodiment, the CTE of the plurality of abrasive particles 302 may be essentially the same as the CTE of the body 301. In yet another embodiment, the CTE of the plurality of abrasive particles 302 can be at least about 0.5% different, at least about 1% different, or at least about 3% different compared to the CTE of the body 301. It will be appreciated that the plurality of abrasive particles can have a difference in CTE relative to the CTE of the body that is within a range including any of the minimum and maximum values noted above. The CTE of the body of the shaped abrasive particle and the plurality of abrasive particles may be measured in the finally-formed abrasive particle after sintering.
According to an embodiment, the plurality of abrasive particles 302 are selected from the group consisting of crushed grains, irregularly shaped grains, elongated grains, agglomerates, aggregates, fine shaped abrasive particles, flakes, and a combination thereof. In one particular instance, the plurality of abrasive particles consists essentially of crush grains, which may have a generally irregular shape. Flakes may be elongated or non-elongated grains that have a very small thickness relative to the width and length of the particle.
Shaped abrasive particles may be formed through particular processes, including molding, printing, casting, extrusion, and the like as described herein. And will be described further herein. In at least one embodiment, at least a portion of the plurality of abrasive particles 302 may include shaped abrasive particles of a significantly finer size compared to the body 301 of the shaped abrasive particle 301. The shaped abrasive particles included in the plurality of abrasive particles 302 overlying the body 301 of the shaped abrasive particle can have any of the attributes of the shaped abrasive particles defined in the embodiments herein.
The body 301 of the shaped abrasive particle can have a length (L), a width (W) and a height (H), wherein L≥W≥H. The length may define the longest dimension of the body 301, and in some instances may be equal to the dimension defining the width. In one embodiment, the width can generally define the second longest dimension of the body 301, but in certain instances, the width can have the same value as the length. The height may generally define the shortest dimension of the body and may extend in a direction perpendicular to the plane defined by the length and width of the body 301. According to one particular embodiment, the width can be greater than or equal to the height.
In accordance with an embodiment, the body 301 of the shaped abrasive particle can have an average particle size, as measured by the largest dimension measurable on the body 301 (i.e., the length), of at least about 100 microns. In fact, the body 301 of the shaped abrasive particle can have an average particle size of at least about 150 microns, such as at least about 200 microns, at least about 300 microns, at least about 400 microns, at least about 500 microns, at least about 500 microns, at least about 600 microns, at least about 800 microns, or even at least about 900 microns. Still, the abrasive particle can have an average particle size that is not greater than about 5 mm, such as not greater than about 3 mm, not greater than about 2 mm, or even not greater than about 1.5 mm. It will be appreciated that the abrasive particle can have an average particle size within a range including any of the minimum and maximum values noted above.
The abrasive grains (i.e., crystallites) contained within the body of the shaped abrasive particles or the plurality of abrasive particles may have an average grain size that is generally not greater than about 100 microns. In other embodiments, the average grain size can be less, such as not greater than about 80 microns, not greater than about 50 microns, not greater than about 30 microns, not greater than about 20 microns, not greater than about 10 microns, not greater than about 1 micron, not greater than about 0.9 microns, not greater than about 0.8 microns, not greater than about 0.7 microns, or even not greater than about 0.6 microns. Still, the average grain size of the abrasive grains contained within the body of the abrasive particles can be at least about 0.01 microns, such as at least about 0.05 microns, at least about 0.06 microns, at least about 0.07 microns, at least about 0.08 microns, at least about 0.09 microns, at least about 0.1 microns, at least about 0.12 microns, at least about 0.15 microns, at least about 0.17 microns, at least about 0.2 microns, or even at least about 0.5 microns. It will be appreciated that the abrasive grains can have an average grain size within a range between any of the minimum and maximum values noted above.
The plurality of abrasive particles 302 may have a particular median particle size relative to one or more dimensions of the body 301 of the shaped abrasive particle. For example, the plurality of abrasive particles 302 can have a median particle size (D50) that can be not greater than the length (L) of the body 301 of the shaped abrasive particle. More particularly, the plurality of abrasive particles 302 can have a median particle size (D50) that is not greater than about 90% of the length (L), such as not greater than about 80% of the length, not greater than about 70% of the length, not greater than about 60% of the length, not greater than about 50% of the length, not greater than about 40% of the length, not greater than about 30% of the length, not greater than about 25% of the length, not greater than about 20% of the length, not greater than about 18% of the length, not greater than about 15% of the length, not greater than about 12% of the length, not greater than about 10% of the length, not greater than about 8% of the length, not greater than about 6% of the length, or even not greater than about 5% of the length of the body 301. Still, in another non-limiting embodiment, the plurality of abrasive particles 302 can have a median particle size (D50) that is at least about 0.1% of the length (L), such as at least about 0.5% of the length, at least about 1% of the length, or even at least about 2% of the length, at least about 3% of the length, at least about 4% of the length, at least about 5% of the length, at least about 6% of the length, at least about 7% of the length, at least about 8% of the length, at least about 9% of the length, at least about 10% of the length, at least about 12% of the length, at least about 15% of the length, at least about 18% of the length, at least about 20% of the length, at least about 25% of the length, or even at least about 30% of the length of the body 301. It will be appreciated that the plurality of abrasive particles 302 can have a median particle size (D50) that is within a range including any of the minimum and maximum percentages noted above.
According to one particular embodiment, the plurality of abrasive particles 302 can have a median particle size (D50) that is at least 0.1% and not greater than about 90% of the length (L) of the body of the shaped abrasive particle, which can be calculated by [(D50)/(L)]×100%. In another embodiment, the plurality of abrasive particles 302 can have a median particle size (D50) of at least 0.1% and not greater than about 50% of the length of the body, such as at least 0.1% and not greater than about 20% or at least 0.1% and not greater than about 10% or at least 0.1% and not greater than about 8% or at least 0.1% and not greater than about 6%, or at least 0.1% and not greater than about 5% or even at least 1% and not greater than 5% of the length of the body of the shaped abrasive particle. Moreover, it has been noted in certain instances, that the relative median particle size (D50) of the plurality of abrasive particles 302 compared to the length of the body may impact the percent coverage of the abrasive particles on the body.
In another embodiment, the plurality of abrasive particles 302 can have a median particle size (D50) that is not greater than about 90% of the width (W), such as not greater than about 80% of the width, not greater than about 70% of the width, not greater than about 60% of the width, not greater than about 50% of the width, not greater than about 40% of the width, not greater than about 30% of the width, not greater than about 25% of the width, not greater than about 20% of the width, not greater than about 18% of the width, not greater than about 15% of the width, not greater than about 12% of the width, not greater than about 10% of the width, not greater than 8% of the width, not greater than 6% of the width, or even not greater than 5% of the width of the body 301. Still, in another non-limiting embodiment, the plurality of abrasive particles 302 can have a median particle size (D50) that is at least about 0.1% of the width (W), such as at least about 0.5% of the width, at least about 1% of the width, at least about 2% of the width, at least about 3% of the width, at least about 4% of the width, at least about 5% of the width, at least about 6% of the width, at least about 7% of the width, at least about 8% of the width, at least about 9% of the width, at least about 10% of the width, at least about 12% of the width, at least about 15% of the width, at least about 18% of the width, at least about 20% of the width, at least about 25% of the width, at least about 30% of the width of the body 301. It will be appreciated that the plurality of abrasive particles 302 can have a median particle size (D50) that is within a range including any of the minimum and maximum percentages noted above.
According to one particular embodiment, the plurality of abrasive particles 302 can have a median particle size (D50) that is at least 0.1% and not greater than about 90% of the width of the body of the shaped abrasive particle, which can be calculated by [(D50)/(W)]×100. In another embodiment, the plurality of abrasive particles 302 can have a median particle size (D50) of at least 0.1% and not greater than about 50% of the width of the body, such as at least 0.1% and not greater than about 20% or at least 0.1% and not greater than about 10% or at least 0.1% and not greater than about 8% or at least 0.1% and not greater than about 6%, or at least 1% and not greater than about 6% or even at least 1% and not greater than 4% of the width of the body of the shaped abrasive particle. Moreover, it has been noted in certain instances, that the relative median particle size (D50) of the plurality of abrasive particles 302 compared to the width of the body may impact the percent coverage of the abrasive particles on the body.
In another embodiment, the plurality of abrasive particles 302 can have a median particle size (D50) that is not greater than about 90% of the height, such as not greater than about 80% of the height, not greater than about 70% of the height, not greater than about 60% of the height, not greater than about 50% of the height, not greater than about 40% of the height, not greater than about 30% of the height, not greater than about 25% of the height, not greater than about 20% of the height, not greater than about 18% of the height, not greater than about 15% of the height, not greater than about 12%, the height, not greater than about 10% of the height, not greater than about 8% of the height, not greater than about 6% of the height, not greater than about 5% of the height of the body 301. Still, in another non-limiting embodiment, the plurality of abrasive particles 302 can have a median particle size (D50) that is at least about 0.1% of the height, such as at least about 0.5% of the height, at least about 1% of the height, at least about 2% of the height, at least about 3% of the height, at least about 4% of the height, at least about 5% of the height, at least about 6% of the height, at least about 7% of the height, at least about 8% of the height, at least about 9% of the height, at least about 10% of the height, at least about 12% of the height, at least about 15% of the height, at least about 18% of the height, at least about 20% of the height, at least about 25% of the height, at least about 30% of the height of the body 301. It will be appreciated that the plurality of abrasive particles 302 can have a median particle size (D50) that is within a range including any of the minimum and maximum percentages noted above.
According to one particular embodiment, the plurality of abrasive particles 302 can have a median particle size (D50) that is at least 0.1% and not greater than about 90% of the height of the body of the shaped abrasive particle, which can be calculated by [(D50)/(H)]×100. In another embodiment, the plurality of abrasive particles 302 can have a median particle size (D50) of at least 0.1% and not greater than about 50% of the height of the body, such as at least 0.1% and not greater than about 20% or at least 1% and not greater than about 18% or at least 5% and not greater than about 18% or at least 8% and not greater than about 16% of the height of the body of the shaped abrasive particle. Moreover, it has been noted in certain instances, that the relative median particle size (D50) of the plurality of abrasive particles 302 compared to the height of the body may impact the percent coverage of the abrasive particles on the body.
In accordance with an embodiment, the plurality of abrasive particles 302 can have a median particle size (D50) of not greater than about 1 mm, such as not greater than about 800 microns, not greater than about 500 microns or not greater than 300 microns or not greater than 200 microns or not greater than 100 microns or not greater than 90 microns or not greater than 80 microns or not greater than 70 microns or not greater than 65 microns or not greater than 60 microns or not greater than 50 microns or even not greater than 40 microns. Still, in one non-limiting embodiment, the plurality of abrasive particles 302 can have a median particle size (D50) of at least about 0.1 microns, such as at least about 0.5 microns or at least 1 micron or at least 2 microns or at least 3 microns or at least 5 microns or at least 10 microns or at least 15 microns or at least 20 microns or at least 25 microns or at least 30 microns. It will be appreciated that the abrasive particle can have a median particle size within a range including any of the minimum and maximum values noted above. For example, the plurality of abrasive particles can have a median particle size (D50) of at least 0.1 microns and not greater than 500 microns or at least 0.5 microns and not greater than 100 microns or at least 1 micron and not greater than 65 microns. It has been noted in certain instances, that the median particle size (D50) of the plurality of abrasive particles 302 may impact the formation, deployment, and/or performance of the abrasive particles.
For at least one embodiment, at least a portion of the abrasive particles of the plurality of abrasive particles can be at least partially embedded in at least one surface the body 301 of the shaped abrasive particle. Moreover, in certain instances, the portion can include a majority of the abrasive particles of the plurality of abrasive particles 302 that can be at least partially embedded in at least one surface of the body 301 of the shaped abrasive particle. According to another embodiment, the portion of the plurality of abrasive particles can be a minority of the particles of the plurality of abrasive particles that are at least partially embedded within at least one surface of the body 301. It will be appreciated that embedded particles can extend into the volume of the body below an exterior surface of the body 301, as opposed to particles that are overlying the surface of the body 301, but may not be embedded and extending into the volume of the body 301 (e.g., particles that are applied as a certain type of coating). Moreover, the feature of the embedded abrasive particles is distinct from patterned surface features, such as grooves or rounded protrusions, wherein the abrasive particles are embedded into the volume of the body of the shaped abrasive particle, and the plurality of abrasive particles have sharp and irregular corners (e.g., in the context of crushed and irregular shaped abrasive particles) protruding from the surface. Without wishing to be tied to a particular theory, it is thought that the sharp and irregular surfaces of the plurality of abrasive particles, as well as the random distribution of the abrasive particles on the surface of the shaped abrasive particle may impact the self-sharpening behavior of the composite abrasive particle, and thus may improve the performance of the abrasive particle and associated abrasive article. The plurality of abrasive particles may also facilitate improved retention of the abrasive particles in certain bond matrix materials, including for example in the bonding layers of a coated abrasive or within the three-dimensional volume of a bond material within a bonded abrasive article.
According to one embodiment, at least one of the abrasive particles of the plurality of abrasive particles can be attached to a surface of the body of the shaped abrasive particle and define an acute contact angle. Notably, the provision of the plurality of abrasive particles according to the processes herein can facilitate the attachment of one or more of the abrasive particles of the plurality abrasive particles to the body in a manner that defines an acute angle. A random sample of abrasive particles can be obtained. Each abrasive particle may be sectioned or ground transverse to the longitudinal axis through the middle half of the body. To obtain a suitable view of the cross-section, such as illustrated in
After completing the foregoing preparation of the samples, each abrasive particle can be mounted and viewed by an optical microscope (e.g., Olympus DSX500) at 10× magnification with a field of view of 2 mm. Using the optical microscope, an image of the cross-section of each abrasive particle is obtained, such as provided in
Referring to
In another embodiment, at least a portion of the plurality of abrasive particles 302 can be bonded directly to at least one surface of the body 301 of the shaped abrasive particle. More particularly, at least a portion of the plurality of abrasive particles 302 can be sinter-bonded to at least one surface of the body 301 of the shaped abrasive particle. In at least one embodiment, all of the abrasive particles of the plurality of abrasive particles 302 can be sinter-bonded to at least one surface of the body 301 of the shaped abrasive particle.
According to one embodiment, the plurality of abrasive particles can be attached to the first major surface and the first major surface can have a surface roughness greater than a surface roughness of another surface (e.g., a side surface) of the body that has fewer abrasive particles attached thereto. In one particular embodiment, the first major surface can include a plurality of abrasive particles bonded thereto and the body can be essentially free of any abrasive particles bonded to the side surface, and in such instances, the surface roughness of the first major surface can be significantly greater than the side surface. Surface roughness can be measured using any suitable techniques, including for example optical metrology techniques. In yet another embodiment, the first major surface can include a plurality of abrasive particles bonded thereto and the body can be essentially free of any abrasive particles bonded to the second major surface, and in such instances, the surface roughness of the first major surface can be significantly greater than the second major surface.
The shaped abrasive particles can include any of the features of the abrasive particles of the embodiments herein. For example, the shaped abrasive particles can include a crystalline material, and more particularly, a polycrystalline material. Notably, the polycrystalline material can include abrasive grains. In one embodiment, the body of the abrasive particle, including for example, the body of a shaped abrasive particle can be essentially free of an organic material, including for example, a binder. In at least one embodiment, the abrasive particles can consist essentially of a polycrystalline material.
Some suitable materials for use as abrasive particles can include nitrides, oxides, carbides, borides, oxynitrides, oxyborides, diamond, carbon-containing materials, and a combination thereof. In particular instances, the abrasive particles can include an oxide compound or complex, such as aluminum oxide, zirconium oxide, titanium oxide, yttrium oxide, chromium oxide, strontium oxide, silicon oxide, magnesium oxide, rare-earth oxides, and a combination thereof. In one particular embodiment, the abrasive particles can include at least 95 wt % alumina for the total weight of the body. In at least one embodiment, the abrasive particles can consist essentially of alumina. Still, in certain instances, the abrasive particles can include not greater than 99.5 wt % alumina for the total weight of the body. Moreover, in particular instances, the shaped abrasive particles can be formed from a seeded sol-gel. In at least one embodiment, the abrasive particles of the embodiments herein may be essentially free of iron, rare-earth oxides, and a combination thereof.
In accordance with certain embodiments, certain abrasive particles can be compositional composite articles including at least two different types of grains within the body of the shaped abrasive particle or within the body of the abrasive particles of the plurality of abrasive particles. It will be appreciated that different types of grains are grains having different compositions with regard to each other. For example, the body of the shaped abrasive particle can be formed such that is includes at least two different types of grains, wherein the two different types of grains can be nitrides, oxides, carbides, borides, oxynitrides, oxyborides, carbon-based materials, diamond, naturally occurring minerals, rare-earth-containing materials, and a combination thereof.
It will also be appreciated that the shaped abrasive particles need not be limited to thin shapes defined by only a two-dimensional shape of a major surface, but can include three-dimensional shapes. For example, the body can have a three-dimensional shape selected from the group consisting of a polyhedron, a pyramid, an ellipsoid, a sphere, a prism, a cylinder, a cone, a tetrahedron, a cube, a cuboid, a rhombohedrun, a truncated pyramid, a truncated ellipsoid, a truncated sphere, a truncated cone, a pentahedron, a hexahedron, a heptahedron, an octahedron, a nonahedron, a decahedron, a Greek alphabet letter, a Latin alphabet character, a Russian alphabet character, a Kanji character, complex polygonal shapes, irregular shaped contours, a volcano shape, a monostatic shape, and a combination thereof. A monostatic shape is a shape with a single stable resting position. Accordingly, shaped abrasive particles having a monostatic shape can be applied to a substrate and consistently be oriented in the same position, as they have only one stable resting position. For example, shaped abrasive particles having a monostaic shape may be suitable when applying the particles to a backing via gravity coating, which may be used in the formation of a coated abrasive product. More particularly, the shaped abrasive particles may be mono-monostatic shapes, which describe three dimensional objects having a shape with only one unstable point of balance. According to one particular embodiment, the shaped abrasive particle may have the shape of a gomboc. In another embodiment, the shaped abrasive particle is a monostatic polyhedron with at least four surfaces.
It will be appreciated that like the thin shaped abrasive particle of
As further illustrated in
As will be appreciated, the elongated abrasive particle can have a length defined by longitudinal axis 652, a width defined by the lateral axis 653, and a vertical axis 654 defining a height. As will be appreciated, the body 651 can have a primary aspect ratio of length:width such that the length is greater than the width. Furthermore, the length of the body 651 can be greater than or equal to the height. Finally, the width of the body 651 can be greater than or equal to the height 654. In accordance with an embodiment, the primary aspect ratio of length:width can be at least 1.1:1, at least 1.2:1, at least 1.5:1, at least 1.8:1, at least 2:1, at least 3:1, at least 4:1, at least 5:1, at least 6:1, or even at least 10:1. In another non-limiting embodiment, the body 651 of the elongated shaped abrasive particle can have a primary aspect ratio of length:width of not greater than 100:1, not greater than 50:1, not greater than 10:1, not greater than 6:1, not greater than 5:1, not greater than 4:1, not greater than 3:1, or even not greater than 2:1. It will be appreciated that the primary aspect ratio of the body 651 can be with a range including any of the minimum and maximum ratios noted above. It will be appreciated that not all non-shaped abrasive particles are elongated abrasive particles, and some non-shaped abrasive particles can be substantially equiaxed, such that any combination of the length, width, and height are substantially the same. The non-shaped abrasive particles can be used as the plurality of abrasive particles overlying and bonded to the surface of the shaped abrasive particle. It will be appreciated that the non-shaped abrasive particles may also be used as the body of the abrasive particle to which the plurality of abrasive particles is bonded.
Furthermore, the body 651 of the elongated abrasive particle 650 can include a secondary aspect ratio of width:height that can be at least 1.1:1, such as at least 1.2:1, at least 1.5:1, at least 1.8:1, at least 2:1, at least 3:1, at least 4:1, at least 5:1, at least 8:1, or even at least 10:1. Still, in another non-limiting embodiment, the secondary aspect ratio width:height of the body 651 can be not greater than 100:1, such as not greater than 50:1, not greater than 10:1, not greater than 8:1, not greater than 6:1, not greater than 5:1, not greater than 4:1, not greater than 3:1, or even not greater than 2:1. It will be appreciated the secondary aspect ratio of width:height can be with a range including any of the minimum and maximum ratios of above.
In another embodiment, the body 651 of the elongated abrasive particle 650 can have a tertiary aspect ratio of length:height that can be at least 1.1:1, such as at least 1.2:1, at least 1.5:1, at least 1.8:1, at least 2:1, at least 3:1, at least 4:1, at least 5:1, at least 8:1, or even at least 10:1. Still, in another non-limiting embodiment, the tertiary aspect ratio length:height of the body 651 can be not greater than 100:1, such as not greater than 50:1, not greater than 10:1, not greater than 8:1, not greater than 6:1, not greater than 5:1, not greater than 4:1, not greater than 3:1, It will be appreciated that the tertiary aspect ratio the body 651 can be with a range including any of the minimum and maximum ratios and above.
The elongated abrasive particle 650 can have certain attributes of the other abrasive particles described in the embodiments herein, including for example, but not limited to, composition, microstructural features (e.g., average grain/crystallite size), hardness, porosity, and the like.
As illustrated, the body 701 can include a first portion 706 including a first curved section 742 disposed between a first linear section 741 and a second linear section 743 and between the external corners 709 and 710. The second portion 707 is separated from the first portion 706 of the side surface 705 by the external corner 710. The second portion 707 of the side surface 705 can include a second curved section 752 joining a third linear section 751 and a fourth linear section 753. Furthermore, the body 701 can include a third portion 708 separated from the first portion 706 of the side surface 705 by the external corner 709 and separated from the second portion 707 by the external corner 711. The third portion 708 of the side surface 705 can include a third curved section 762 joining a fifth linear section 761 and a sixth linear section 763.
The shaped abrasive particles of the embodiments herein may have a particular tip sharpness that may facilitate suitable performance in the fixed abrasive articles of the embodiments herein. For example, the body of a shaped abrasive particle can have a tip sharpness of not greater than 80 microns, such as not greater than 70 microns, not greater than 60 microns, not greater than 50 microns, not greater than 40 microns, not greater than 30 microns, not greater than 20 microns, or even not greater than 10 microns. In yet another non-limiting embodiment, the tip sharpness can be at least 2 microns, such as at least 4 microns, at least 10 microns, at least 20 microns, at least 30 microns, at least 40 microns, at least 50 microns, at least 60 microns, or even at least 70 microns. It will be appreciated that the body can have a tip sharpness within a range between any of the minimum and maximum values noted above.
Another grain feature of shaped abrasive particles is the Shape Index. The Shape Index of a body of a shaped abrasive particle can be described as a value of an outer radius of a best-fit outer circle superimposed on the body, as viewed in two dimensions of a plane of length and width of the body (e.g., the upper major surface or the bottom major surface), compared to an inner radius of the largest best-fit inner circle that fits entirely within the body, as viewed in the same plane of length and width. For example, turning to
A second, inner circle can be superimposed on the body 770, as illustrated in
The Shape Index can be calculated by dividing the outer radius by the inner radius (i.e., Shape Index=Ri/Ro). For example, the body 770 of the shaped abrasive particle has a Shape Index of approximately 0.35. Moreover, an equilateral triangle generally has a Shape Index of approximately 0.5, while other polygons, such as a hexagon or pentagon have Shape Index values greater than 0.5. In accordance with an embodiment, the shaped abrasive particles herein can have a Shape Index of at least 0.15, at least 0.20, at least 0.25, at least 0.30, at least 0.35, at least 0.40, at least 0.45, at least about 0.5, at least about 0.55, at least 0.60, at least 0.65, at least 0.70, at least 0.75, at least 0.80, at least 0.85, at least 0.90, at least 0.95. Still, in another non-limiting embodiment, the shaped abrasive particle can have a Shape Index of not greater than 1, such as not greater than 0.98, not greater than 0.95, not greater than 0.90, not greater than 0.85, not greater than 0.80, not greater than 0.75, not greater than 0.70, not greater than 0.65, not greater than 0.60, not greater than 0.55, not greater than 0.50, not greater than 0.45, not greater than 0.40, not greater than 0.35, not greater than 0.30, not greater than 0.25, not greater than 0.20, or even not greater than 0.15. It will be appreciated that the shaped abrasive particles can have a Shape Index within a range between any of the minimum and maximum values noted above.
In particular, the abrasive particle 800 can include a plurality of abrasive particles including a first group of abrasive particles 810 attached to a portion of the first major surface 802. The first group of abrasive particles 810 can include fine shaped abrasive particles 811 having an average particle size significantly less than the average particle size of the body 801 of the shaped abrasive particle. The fine shaped abrasive particles can have any of the attributes of other shaped abrasive particles as described in the embodiments herein. In one particular embodiment, the fine shaped abrasive particles can have a two-dimensional shape that is substantially the same as the two dimensional shape of the body of the shaped abrasive particle. Still in another embodiment, the fine shaped abrasive particles can have a two-dimensional shape that is different than the two dimensional shape of the body of the shaped abrasive particle. It will also be appreciated that the fine shaped abrasive particles can have any of the three-dimensional shapes as described herein.
Notably, the fine shaped abrasive particles can have a median particle size relative to the length, width, and/or height of the body 801. The same relationship noted herein with respect to the median particle size of the plurality of abrasive particles relative to the length, width, or height of the body of the shaped abrasive particles can be true when the plurality of abrasive particles includes fine shaped abrasive particles. The fine shaped abrasive particles have a length≤width≤height, wherein the average length of the fine shaped abrasive particles is less than the length of the body of the shaped abrasive particle.
For example, the fine shaped abrasive particles 810 can have an average length of not greater than about 90% of the length of the body 801, such as or not greater than about 80% of the length or not greater than about 70% of the length or not greater than about 60% of the length or not greater than about 50% of the length or not greater than about 40% of the length or not greater than about 30% of the length or not greater than 25% of the length or not greater than 20% of the length or not greater than about 18% of the length or not greater than about 15% of the length or not greater than about 12% of the length or not greater than about 10% of the length or not greater than 8% of the length or not greater than 6% of the length or not greater than 5% of the length of the body 801 of the shaped abrasive particle. In still another non-limiting embodiment, the fine shaped abrasive particles 811 have an average length of at least about 0.1% of the length of the body 801 or at least about 0.5% of the length or at least about 1% of the length or at least about 2% of the length or at least about 3% of the length or at least about 4% of the length or at least about 5% of the length or at least about 6% of the length or at least about 7% of the length or at least about 8% of the length or at least about 9% of the length or at least about 10% of the length or at least about 12% of the length or at least about 15% of the length or at least about 18% of the length or at least about 20% of the length or at least about 25% of the length or at least about 30% of the length of the body 801 of the shaped abrasive particle. It will be appreciated that the average length of the fine shaped abrasive particles can be within a range between any of the minimum and maximum percentages noted above.
Additionally, the fine shaped abrasive particles can have a particular average width that is less than the length of the body 801 of the shaped abrasive particle. According to one embodiment, the fine shaped abrasive particles 811 can have an average width that is not greater than about 90% of the length of the body 801, such as not greater than about 80% of the length or not greater than about 70% of the length or not greater than about 60% of the length or not greater than about 50% of the length or not greater than about 40% of the length or not greater than about 30% of the length or not greater than about 25% of the length or not greater than about 20% of the length or not greater than about 18% of the length or not greater than about 15% of the length or not greater than about 12% of the length or not greater than about 10% of the length or not greater than about 8% of the length or not greater than about 6% of the length or not greater than about 5% of the length of the body of the shaped abrasive particle. Still, in another embodiment, the fine shaped abrasive particles 811 can have an average width of at least about 0.1% of the length of the body 801, such as at least about 0.5% of the length or at least about 1% of the length or at least about 2% of the length or at least about 3% of the length or at least about 4% of the length or at least about 5% of the length or at least about 6% of the length or at least about 7% of the length or at least about 8% of the length or at least about 9% of the length or at least about 10% of the length or at least about 12% of the length or at least about 15% of the length or at least about 18% of the length or at least about 20% of the length or at least about 25% of the length or at least about 30% of the length of the body of the shaped abrasive particle. It will be appreciated that the average width of the fine shaped abrasive particles can be within a range between any of the minimum and maximum percentages noted above.
For yet another embodiment, the fine shaped abrasive particles 811 can have an average height that is less than the length of the body 801 of the shaped abrasive particle. For example, the fine shaped abrasive particles 811 can have an average height that is not greater than about 90% of the length of the body 801, such as not greater than about 80% of the length or not greater than about 70% of the length or not greater than about 60% of the length or not greater than about 50% of the length or not greater than about 40% of the length or not greater than about 30% of the length or not greater than about 25% of the length or not greater than about 20% of the length or not greater than about 18% of the length or not greater than about 15% of the length or not greater than about 12% of the length or not greater than about 10% of the length or not greater than about 8% of the length or not greater than about 6% of the length or not greater than about 5% of the length of the body 801 of the shaped abrasive particle. Still, in one non-limiting embodiment, the fine shaped abrasive particles 811 can have an average height of at least about 0.01% of the length of the body 801, such as at least about 0.1% of the length or at least about 0.5% of the length or at least about 1% of the length or at least about 2% of the length or at least about 3% of the length or at least about 4% of the length or at least about 5% of the length or at least about 6% of the length or at least about 7% of the length or at least about 8% of the length or at least about 9% of the length or at least about 10% of the length or at least about 12% of the length or at least about 15% of the length or at least about 18% of the length or at least about 20% of the length or at least about 25% of the length or at least about 30% of the length of the body 801 of the shaped abrasive particle. It will be appreciated that the average height of the fine shaped abrasive particles can be within a range between any of the minimum and maximum percentages noted above.
The composite shaped abrasive particle 800 can further include a second group of abrasive particles 812 also attached to the first major surface 802 of the body 801. The second group of abrasive particles 812 can be non-shaped abrasive particles 813. According to one embodiment, as illustrated in
Moreover, the first group of abrasive particles 810 can have a first average particles size, which in the case of fine shaped abrasive particles can be defined by the average length, and the second group of abrasive particles 812 can have a second average particle size, which in the case of fine shaped abrasive particles can be defined by the average length. In certain instances the first and second average particle sizes can be different from one another. In still another embodiment, the first and second average particle sizes can be substantially the same. The relative sizes of the abrasive particles 811 and 813 of the first and second groups of abrasive particles 810 and 812 can be tailored depending upon the desired application of the abrasive particles.
As further illustrated, abrasive particle 800 can include a third group of abrasive particles 817 that can be coupled to the second major surface 803 of the body 801. The third group of abrasive particles 817 can include fine shaped abrasive particles 818, which can have a significantly smaller average particle sized compared to the body 801 of the shaped abrasive particle. The fine shaped abrasive particles 818 can have a different two-dimensional shaped compared to the shaped abrasive particles 811 of the first group of abrasive particles 810.
Moreover, at least a portion of the fine shaped abrasive particles 818 may be oriented in a standing position relative the surface 803 of the body 801 of the shaped abrasive particle. While the group of abrasive particles 817 is illustrated as shaped abrasive particles, it will be appreciated that it may also include elongated abrasive particles, which may be shaped or non-shaped, and can be oriented in a standing position relative to the surface 803 of the body 801. According to an embodiment, the standing orientation can be defined by a largest surface (i.e., a major) of the body of a fine shaped abrasive particle being spaced apart from the surface of the body of the shaped abrasive particle. Moreover, the standing orientation of the fine shaped abrasive particles 818 can be defined by a standing angle 820 between the longitudinal axis 819 of the fine shaped abrasive particle 820 (or elongated abrasive particle, shaped or non-shaped) and the major surface 803 of the body 801. The standing angle 820 can be at least 5 degrees, such as at least 10 degrees, at least 20 degrees, at least 30 degrees, or at least 40 degrees or at least 50 degree or at least 60 degrees or at least 70 degrees or at least 80 degrees or at least 85 degrees. In at least one embodiment, the fine shaped abrasive particles 818 are in a standing orientation relative to the surface 803 of the body 801 and define a substantially perpendicular standing angle 820 as illustrated in
Still, in another embodiment, the group of abrasive particles 817 can include a portion of abrasive particles 830 that are lying flat. In a lying flat orientation, the longitudinal axis of the abrasive particles 831 may be substantially parallel to the surface 803 of the body 801.
As illustrated, in one embodiment, the plurality of abrasive particles 940 may include different groups. For example, the plurality of abrasive particles 940 may include a first group of abrasive particles 902, which may include fine shaped abrasive particles 903 that can be arranged in a controlled distribution on the surface 905 of the body 901. The fine shaped abrasive particles 903 can be lying flat relative to the surface 905 of the body 905. The fine shaped abrasive particles 903 can be arranged in a pattern defined by a plurality of repeating units, wherein each repeating unit of the plurality of repeating units is substantially the same with respect to each other. As illustrated in the embodiment, the fine shaped abrasive particles 903 are arranged in a pattern defined by a substantially triangular repeating unit, as shown by the dotted line. In at least one embodiment, the abrasive particle 900 can be formed such that the fine abrasive particles 903 may extend over a majority or over substantially the entire surface 905 of the body 901 in the controlled distribution as illustrated. It will be appreciated that this may be true of any of the groups of abrasive particles as illustrated herein. Still, in certain instances, one or more groups of abrasive particles may be overlying and bonded to the same surface of the body 901 and may define different distributions and/or orientations relative to each other.
According to another embodiment, the plurality of abrasive particles 940 can include a second group of abrasive particles 910, which may include fine shaped abrasive particles 911 that can be arranged in a random distribution on the surface 905 of the body 901. The fine shaped abrasive particles 911 can be in a standing orientation relative to the surface 905 of the body 905. The fine shaped abrasive particles 911 lack any identifiable repeating unit and thus are arranged in a substantially random distribution compared to each other. It will be appreciated that other types of abrasive particles can be used and other orientation of the abrasive particles may be used. In at least one embodiment, the abrasive particle 900 can be formed such that the fine abrasive particles 911 may extend over a majority or over substantially the entire surface 905 of the body 901 in the random distribution as illustrated.
In yet another embodiment, the plurality of abrasive particles 940 can include a third group of abrasive particles 920, which may include fine shaped abrasive particles 921 that can be arranged in a controlled distribution on the surface 905 of the body 901. The fine shaped abrasive particles 921 can be in a standing orientation relative to the surface 905 of the body 905. As illustrated in the embodiment, the fine shaped abrasive particles 921 can be arranged in a pattern defined by a substantially rectangular repeating unit as shown by the dotted line. In at least one embodiment, the abrasive particle 900 can be formed such that the fine abrasive particles 903 may extend over a majority or over substantially the entire surface 905 of the body 901 in the controlled distribution as illustrated. It will be appreciated that other types of abrasive particles can be used and other orientation of the abrasive particles may be used.
For still another embodiment, the plurality of abrasive particles 940 can include a fourth group of abrasive particles 930, which may include non-shaped abrasive particles 931 that can be arranged in a random distribution on the surface 905 of the body 901. The non-shaped abrasive particles 931 can be in a substantially random arrangement relative to each other. In at least one embodiment, the abrasive particle 900 can be formed such that the non-shaped abrasive particles 931 may extend over a majority or over substantially the entire surface 905 of the body 901 in the random distribution as illustrated.
In at least one embodiment, at least a portion of the plurality of abrasive particles of an abrasive particle can have a coating overlying at least a portion of the exterior surfaces of the abrasive particles. The coating may include a material selected from the group of inorganic, organic, amorphous, crystalline, polycrystalline, ceramic, metal, resin, epoxy, polymer, oxides, carbides, nitrides, borides, carbon-based materials, and a combination thereof.
According to an embodiment, the abrasive particles of the embodiments herein can have a particularly rough and jagged surface. It has been noted by some in the industry that abrasive particles having smooth surfaces and sharp edges provide the best performance. However it has been surprisingly discovered by the Applicants of the present disclosure that grains having a rough surface by virtue of the plurality of abrasive particles attached thereto can have improved performance compared to grains without a plurality of grains attached to one or more surfaces (i.e., grains having a smoother surface).
In at least one particular embodiment, the abrasive particle can include a body of a shaped abrasive particle having a first major surface and a second major surface separated from the first major surface by a side surface, wherein the plurality of abrasive particles are attached to at least the first major surface or the second major surface and the side surface is essentially free of the plurality of abrasive particles. In still other instances, the abrasive particle can include a body of a shaped abrasive particle having a first major surface and a second major surface separated from the first major surface by a side surface, and wherein the plurality of abrasive particles are attached to the first major surface and the second major surface and the side surface is essentially free of the plurality of abrasive particles. Still, it will be appreciated that the plurality of abrasive particles may be overlying and bonded to one or more of the side surface of the body of the shaped abrasive particle.
According to one embodiment, the substrate 1201 can include an organic material, inorganic material, and a combination thereof. In certain instances, the substrate 1201 can include a woven material. However, the substrate 1201 may be made of a non-woven material. Particularly suitable substrate materials can include organic materials, including polymers, and particularly, polyester, polyurethane, polypropylene, polyimides such as KAPTON from DuPont, paper. Some suitable inorganic materials can include metals, metal alloys, and particularly, foils of copper, aluminum, steel, and a combination thereof.
The make coat 1203 can be applied to the surface of the substrate 1201 in a single process, or alternatively, the abrasive particulate materials 1205, 1206, 1207 can be combined with a make coat 1203 material and applied as a mixture to the surface of the substrate 1201. Suitable materials of the make coat 1203 can include organic materials, particularly polymeric materials, including for example, polyesters, epoxy resins, polyurethanes, polyamides, polyacrylates, polymethacrylates, poly vinyl chlorides, polyethylene, polysiloxane, silicones, cellulose acetates, nitrocellulose, natural rubber, starch, shellac, and mixtures thereof. In one embodiment, the make coat 1203 can include a polyester resin. The coated substrate can then be heated in order to cure the resin and the abrasive particulate material to the substrate. In general, the coated substrate 1201 can be heated to a temperature of between about 100° C. to less than about 250° C. during this curing process.
Moreover, it will be appreciated that the coated abrasive article can include one or more collections of various types of abrasive particles, including the abrasive particulate materials 1205, 1206, and 1207, which may represent the abrasive particles of the embodiments herein. The embodiments herein can include a fixed abrasive article (e.g., a coated abrasive article) having a first collection of abrasive particles (e.g., abrasive particulate materials 1205) representative of the abrasive particles of the embodiments herein. Any fixed abrasive may further employ a second collection of abrasive particles therein, which may be representative of another type of abrasive particle according to the embodiments herein, which may be distinct in one or more manners from the abrasive particles of the first collection, including but not limited to, one or more abrasive characteristics as described herein. The same features may be utilized in a bonded abrasive article.
The abrasive particulate materials 1205, 1206, and 1207 can include different types of shaped abrasive particles according to embodiments herein. The different types of shaped abrasive particles can differ from each other in composition, two-dimensional shape, three-dimensional shape, size, and a combination thereof as described in the embodiments herein. As illustrated, the coated abrasive 1200 can include a first type of shaped abrasive particle 1205 having a generally triangular two-dimensional shape and a second type of shaped abrasive particle 1206 having a quadrilateral two-dimensional shape. The coated abrasive 1200 can include different amounts of the first type and second type of shaped abrasive particles 1205 and 1206. It will be appreciated that the coated abrasive may not necessarily include different types of shaped abrasive particles, and can consist essentially of a single type of shaped abrasive particle. As will be appreciated, the shaped abrasive particles of the embodiments herein can be incorporated into various fixed abrasives (e.g., bonded abrasives, coated abrasive, non-woven abrasives, thin wheels, cut-off wheels, reinforced abrasive articles, and the like), including in the form of blends, which may include different types of shaped abrasive particles, shaped abrasive particles with diluent particles, and the like. Moreover, according to certain embodiments, a batch of particulate material may be incorporated into the fixed abrasive article in a predetermined orientation, wherein each of the shaped abrasive particles can have a predetermined orientation relative to each other and relative to a portion of the abrasive article (e.g., the backing of a coated abrasive).
The abrasive particles 1207 can be diluent particles different than the first and second types of shaped abrasive particles 1205 and 1206. For example, the diluent particles can differ from the first and second types of shaped abrasive particles 1205 and 1206 in composition, two-dimensional shape, three-dimensional shape, size, and a combination thereof. For example, the abrasive particles 1207 can represent conventional, crushed abrasive grit having random shapes. The abrasive particles 1207 may have a median particle size less than the median particle size of the first and second types of shaped abrasive particles 1205 and 1206.
After sufficiently forming the make coat 503 with the abrasive particulate materials 1205, 1206, 1207 contained therein, the size coat 1204 can be formed to overlie and bond the abrasive particulate material 1205 in place. The size coat 1204 can include an organic material, may be made essentially of a polymeric material, and notably, can use polyesters, epoxy resins, polyurethanes, polyamides, polyacrylates, polymethacrylates, poly vinyl chlorides, polyethylene, polysiloxane, silicones, cellulose acetates, nitrocellulose, natural rubber, starch, shellac, and mixtures thereof.
The abrasive particulate material 1302 of the bonded abrasive 1300 can include different types of shaped abrasive particles 1303, 1304, 1305, and 1306, which can have any of the features of different types of shaped abrasive particles as described in the embodiments herein. Notably, the different types of shaped abrasive particles 1303, 1304, 1305, and 1306 can differ from each other in composition, two-dimensional shape, three-dimensional shape, size, and a combination thereof as described in the embodiments herein.
The bonded abrasive 1300 can include a type of abrasive particulate material 1307 representing diluent abrasive particles, which can differ from the different types of shaped abrasive particles 1303, 1304, 1305, and 1306 in composition, two-dimensional shape, three-dimensional shape, size, and a combination thereof.
The porosity 1308 of the bonded abrasive 1300 can be open porosity, closed porosity, and a combination thereof. The porosity 1308 may be present in a majority amount (vol %) based on the total volume of the body of the bonded abrasive 1300. Alternatively, the porosity 1308 can be present in a minor amount (vol %) based on the total volume of the body of the bonded abrasive 1300. The bond material 1301 may be present in a majority amount (vol %) based on the total volume of the body of the bonded abrasive 1300. Alternatively, the bond material 1301 can be present in a minor amount (vol %) based on the total volume of the body of the bonded abrasive 1300. Additionally, abrasive particulate material 1302 can be present in a majority amount (vol %) based on the total volume of the body of the bonded abrasive 1300. Alternatively, the abrasive particulate material 1302 can be present in a minor amount (vol %) based on the total volume of the body of the bonded abrasive 1300.
As further illustrated, the abrasive particle 1370 can include a shaped abrasive particle 1371 and a plurality of abrasive particles 1372 bonded to at least a first major surface 1373 of the body of the shaped abrasive particle 1371. Notably, the abrasive particle 1370 can have a particular position within the three dimensional volume of the body 1351 of the bonded abrasive 1350. Moreover, the abrasive particle 1370 can have a controlled and predetermined orientation relative to a radial axis 1381 and/or lateral axis 1382 of the body 1351. According to one embodiment, the abrasive particle 1360 can have an orientation that is considered to be standing upright within the body 1351 as the first major surface 1373 of the body of the shaped abrasive particle 1371 is substantially parallel to the lateral axis 1382 and substantially perpendicular to the major surfaces 1354 and 1355 of the body 1351 of the bonded abrasive 1350. Moreover, the first major surface 1373 of the shaped abrasive particle 1371 can be substantially perpendicular to the radial axis 1381. In other instances, the abrasive particle 1370 can be oriented within the body 1351 such that it is tilted with respect to the lateral axis to define a controlled tilt angle. In such situations, the abrasive particle 1371 may have a first major surface that is neither substantially perpendicular to the radial axis 1381 nor substantially parallel to the lateral axis. Such a controlled tilt angle can include any angle between 5 degrees and 85 degrees. As used herein, reference to a substantially parallel or substantially perpendicular orientation is reference to a difference between an axis or plane and a reference axis of not greater than 5 degrees. Moreover, as will be appreciated, the abrasive particles can have various rotational orientations about the lateral axis 1382 and the radial axis 1381. When referring to a tilt angle, it will be understood that there may be a radial tilt angle defined as the smallest angle formed between the radial axis 1381 and a radial vector defining the direction of the major surface having the largest component in the radial direction. There may also be a lateral tilt angle defined as the smallest angle formed between the lateral axis 1382 and a vector defining the direction of the major surface with the largest component in the lateral direction.
Many different aspects and embodiments are possible. Some of those aspects and embodiments are described herein. After reading this specification, skilled artisans will appreciate that those aspects and embodiments are only illustrative and do not limit the scope of the present invention. Embodiments may be in accordance with any one or more of the items as listed below.
Item 1. An abrasive particle comprising a shaped abrasive particle comprising a body, and a plurality of abrasive particles bonded to at least one surface of the body of the shaped abrasive particle.
Item 2. The abrasive particle of item 1, wherein the body of the shaped abrasive particle comprises a two-dimensional shape as viewed in a plane defined by a length and a width of the body selected from the group consisting of polygons, ellipsoids, numerals, Greek alphabet characters, Latin alphabet characters, Russian alphabet characters, complex shapes having a combination of polygonal shapes, and a combination thereof.
Item 3. The abrasive particle of item 1, wherein the plurality of abrasive particles is bonded to a major surface of the body or wherein the plurality of abrasive particles is bonded to at least two surfaces of the body or wherein the plurality of abrasive particles is bonded to at least two major surfaces of the body.
Item 4. The abrasive particle of item 1, wherein a portion of the particles of the plurality of abrasive particles is embedded into the volume of the body of the shaped abrasive particle or wherein a portion of the abrasive particles of the plurality of abrasive particles is embedded within the at least one surface of the body or wherein the plurality of abrasive particles are sinter-bonded to the at least one surface of the body of the shaped abrasive particle or wherein a portion of the abrasive particles of the plurality of abrasive particles are sinter-bonded to the at least one surface of the body of the shaped abrasive particle.
Item 5. The abrasive particle of item 4, wherein the portion includes a minority of the particles of the plurality of abrasive particles or wherein the portion includes a majority of the particles of the plurality of abrasive particles.
Item 6. The abrasive particle of item 1, wherein the plurality of abrasive particles cover at least 1% of the total surface area of the body or at least 5% or at least 10% or at least 20% or at least 30% or at least 40% or at least 50% or at least 60% or at least about 70% or at least about 80% or at least about 90% or at least about 95%, and wherein the plurality of abrasive particles cover not greater than 95% or not greater than 90% or not greater than 80% or not greater than 60% or not greater than 50% or not greater than 40% or not greater than 30% or the total surface area of the body.
Item 7. The abrasive particle of item 1, wherein the body includes a first major surface, a second major surface, and a side surface extending between the first major surface and the second major surface, wherein the plurality of abrasive particles is bonded to the first major surface and the side surface is essentially free of abrasive particles of the plurality of abrasive particles.
Item 8. The abrasive particle of item 1, wherein the surface of the body including the plurality of abrasive particle comprises a random arrangement of the plurality of abrasive particles on a major surface of the body, and wherein a side surface of the body is essentially free of the plurality of abrasive particles.
Item 9. The abrasive particle of item 1, wherein the body comprises a first major surface and a second major surface separated from the first major surface by a side surface, wherein the plurality of abrasive particles are attached to the first major surface and the first major surface has a surface roughness greater than a surface roughness of the side surface.
Item 10. The abrasive particle of item 1, wherein the plurality of abrasive particles are selected from the group consisting of oxides, carbides, nitrides, borides, oxycarbides, oxynitrides, oxyborides, natural minerals, synthetic materials, carbon-based materials, and a combination thereof.
Item 11. The abrasive particle of item 1, wherein the plurality of abrasive particles are selected from the group consisting of crushed grains, irregularly shaped grains, elongated grains, agglomerates, aggregates, and a combination thereof.
Item 12. The abrasive particle of item 1, wherein the body of the shaped abrasive particle comprises a length≥width≥height, and the plurality of abrasive particles comprise a median particle size (D50), and wherein the median particle size (D50) is not greater than the length of the body of the shaped abrasive particle or wherein the median particle size (D50) is not greater than the width of the body of the shaped abrasive particle or wherein the median particle size (D50) is not greater than the height of the body of the shaped abrasive particle.
Item 13. The abrasive particle of item 12, wherein the plurality of abrasive particles comprise a median particle size (D50) of not greater than about 90% of the length of the body or at least about 0.1% of the length of the body.
Item 14. The abrasive particle of item 1, wherein the plurality of abrasive particles comprise at least 1 wt % of a total weight of the abrasive particle or wherein the plurality of abrasive particles comprise not greater than about 80 wt % of a total weight of the abrasive particle.
Item 15. The abrasive particle of item 12, wherein the median particle size (D50) is not greater than the width of the body of the shaped abrasive particle or wherein the plurality of abrasive particles comprise a median particle size (D50) of not greater than about 90% of the width of the body or at least about 0.1% of the width of the body.
Item 16. The abrasive particle of item 1, wherein the plurality of abrasive particles include a material having a CTE that is not greater than about 50% different than a CTE of the body of the shaped abrasive particle.
Item 17. The abrasive particle of item 15, wherein the median particle size (D50) is not greater than the height of the body of the shaped abrasive particle or wherein the plurality of abrasive particles comprise a median particle size (D50) of not greater than about 90% of the height of the body or at least about 0.1% of the height of the body.
Item 18. The abrasive particle of item 1, wherein at least a portion of the plurality of abrasive particles include fine shaped abrasive particles, or wherein essentially all of the plurality of abrasive particles include the fine shaped abrasive particles.
Item 19. The abrasive particle of item 18, wherein the fine shaped abrasive particles have a length≤width≤height, wherein the average length of the fine shaped abrasive particles is less than the length of the body of the shaped abrasive particle.
Item 20. The abrasive particle of item 19, wherein fine shaped abrasive particles comprise an average length of not greater than about 90% of the length of the body or at least about 0.1% of the length of the body of the shaped abrasive particle.
Item 21. The abrasive particle of item 19, wherein the fine shaped abrasive particles comprise an average width that is less than the length of the body of the shaped abrasive particle or wherein the fine shaped abrasive particles comprise an average height that is less than the length of the body of the shaped abrasive particle.
Item 22. The abrasive particle of item 19, wherein a portion of the fine shaped abrasive particles are positioned in a standing orientation relative to the surface of the body of the shaped abrasive particle.
Item 23: The abrasive particle of item 1, wherein the plurality of abrasive particles is arranged on the surface of the body in a random distribution.
Item 24. The abrasive particle of item 1, wherein the plurality of abrasive particles are arranged on the surface of the body in a controlled distribution.
Item 25. The abrasive particle of item 24, wherein the controlled distribution includes a pattern defined by a plurality of repeating units, wherein each repeating unit of the plurality of repeating units is substantially the same with respect to each other.
Item 26. The abrasive particle of item 1, wherein a portion of the abrasive particles of the plurality of abrasive particles include a coating comprising a material selected from the group of inorganic, organic, amorphous, crystalline, polycrystalline, ceramic, metal, resin, epoxy, polymer, oxides, carbide, nitride, borides, or a combination thereof.
Item 27. The abrasive particle of item 1, wherein the surface of the body including the plurality of abrasive particle comprises a random arrangement of the plurality of abrasive particles on a major surface of the body, and wherein a side surface of the body is essentially free of the plurality of abrasive particles.
Item 28. The abrasive particle of item 1, wherein the body comprises a first major surface and a second major surface separated from the first major surface by a side surface, wherein the plurality of abrasive particles are attached to at least the first major surface or the second major surface and the side surface is essentially free of the plurality of abrasive particles.
Item 29. The abrasive particle of item 1, wherein the body comprises a first major surface and a second major surface separated from the first major surface by a side surface, wherein the plurality of abrasive particles are attached to the first major surface and the second major surface and the side surface is essentially free of the plurality of abrasive particles.
Item 30. The abrasive particle of item 1, wherein the abrasive particle is incorporated into a fixed abrasive article.
Item 31. The abrasive particle of item 1, further comprising a coated abrasive article including a substrate and the abrasive particle overlying the substrate, wherein the abrasive particle has a predetermined orientation on the coated abrasive defined by an orientation of the at least one surface including the plurality of abrasive particles relative to a longitudinal or lateral axis of the substrate.
Item 32. The abrasive particle of item 1, further comprising a bonded abrasive article including a body including a bond matrix material, wherein the abrasive particle has a predetermined position and orientation within the body defined by a predetermined position and orientation of the at least one surface including the plurality of abrasive particles relative to a longitudinal or lateral axis of the body.
Item 33. An abrasive article comprising: a bond material; and a first collection of abrasive particles coupled to the bond material, wherein each particle in the first collection comprises: a shaped abrasive particle comprising a body; and a plurality of abrasive particles bonded to at least one surface of the body of the shape abrasive particle.
Item 34. A method of forming an abrasive particle comprising forming a mixture and attaching a plurality of abrasive particles to at least one surface of the mixture and forming a shaped abrasive particle having a body and the plurality of abrasive particles bonded to at least one surface of the body.
Item 35. The method of item 34, wherein forming a mixture includes at least one process selected from the group consisting of printing, molding, casting, cutting, ablating, punching, drying, cracking, sintering, humidifying, and a combination thereof.
Item 36. The method of item 34, wherein forming the mixture includes forming a precursor shaped abrasive particle and attaching a plurality of abrasive particles to at least one surface of the precursor shaped abrasive particle.
Item 37. The method of item 34, wherein forming the mixture includes depositing the mixture into an opening of a production tool and attaching a plurality of abrasive particles to at least one surface of the mixture in the opening of the production tool.
Item 38. The method of item 34, wherein the plurality of abrasive particles is attached the body of the mixture prior to substantial drying of the body.
Item 39. The method of item 34, wherein attaching the plurality of abrasive particles includes depositing the plurality of abrasive particles on a surface of the body, wherein depositing includes a process selected from the group consisting of blasting, projecting, pressing, gravity coating, molding, stamping, and a combination thereof.
Item 40. The method of item 34, wherein the mixture is formed on a production tool including a layer of abrasive particles including the plurality of abrasive particles.
Item 41. The method of item 34, wherein the process further comprising applying moisture to at least one surface of the mixture prior to attaching the plurality of abrasive particles.
Item 42. The method item 34, wherein attaching the plurality of abrasive particles includes directing a deposition material at the at least one surface, wherein the deposition material includes the plurality of abrasive particles and a carrier gas.
Item 43. The method item 42, wherein the carrier gas can include water vapor, steam, an inert gas element, and a combination thereof.
Item 44. The method item 34, wherein the mixture is formed on a production tool including a layer of abrasive particles including the plurality of abrasive particles.
Item 45. The method item 34, wherein the process further comprising applying moisture to at least one surface of the mixture prior to attaching the plurality of abrasive particles.
Item 46. The method item 45, wherein applying moisture includes directing a gas towards the at least one surface of the mixture prior to attaching the plurality of abrasive particles.
Item 47. The method item 45, wherein applying moisture includes directing steam at the at least one surface of the mixture in the production tool.
Item 48. The method item 45, wherein applying moisture includes wetting the at least one surface of the mixture for a sufficient time to change a viscosity of an exterior region of the at least one surface relative to a viscosity of the mixture at an interior region spaced apart from the exterior region.
Item 49. The method item 34, wherein the process further comprises changing a viscosity of an exterior region of the body including the at least one surface relative to a viscosity of an interior region of the mixture that is spaced apart from the exterior region, and applying the plurality of abrasive particles to the exterior region of the mixture.
Three samples of shaped abrasive particles were made and tested for comparison of performance. A first comparative sample (CS1) was a conventional shaped abrasive particle commercially available as 3M984F from 3M Corporation. The body had an average width of 1400 microns and a height of approximately 300 microns. The shaped abrasive particles of Sample CS1 had a rare-earth element doped alpha-alumina composition, an average tip sharpness of approximately 20 microns, an average strength of approximately 606 MPa and an average cross-sectional shape factor of approximately 0.15.
Two samples (Sample S1 and Sample S2) representative of the embodiments herein were formed from a gel mixture including approximately 45-50 wt % boehmite. The boehmite was obtained from Sasol Corp. as Catapal B and modified by autoclaving a 30% by weight mixture of the Catapal B with deionized water and nitric acid. The nitric acid-to-boehmite ratio was approximately 0.025. The mixture was then placed in an autoclave and treated at 100° C. to 250° C. for a time ranging from 5 minutes to 24 hours. The autoclaved Catapal B sol was dried by conventional means. One may also use an alternative boehmite, commercially available as DISPERAL from Sasol Corp. The boehmite was mixed and seeded with 1% alpha alumina seeds relative to the total alumina content of the mixture. The alpha alumina seeds were made by milling of corundum using conventional techniques, described for example in U.S. Pat. No. 4,623,364. The mixture also included 45-50 wt % water and 2.5-4 wt % additional nitric acid, which were used to form the gel mixture. The ingredients were mixed in a planetary mixer of conventional design and mixed under reduced pressure to remove gaseous elements from the mixture (e.g., bubbles).
Sample S1 was formed by hand by depositing the gel into the openings of a stainless steel production tool. The cavities were open to both sides of the production tool, such that they were apertures extending through the entire thickness of the production tool. The cavities or openings of the production tool had an equilateral triangle two-dimensional shape as viewed top down, wherein the length was approximately 2.77 mm, the width was approximately 2.4 mm and the depth was approximately 0.59 mm. The surfaces of the openings in the production tool were coated with a lubricant of olive oil to facilitate removal of the precursor shaped abrasive particles from the production tool.
After depositing the gel, a first side of the mixture was humidified with a sponge while residing in the cavities of the production tool. A plurality of dried, unsintered particles of the same gel mixture used to form the mixture in the production tool were deposited on the humidified surface of the mixture residing in the cavities of the production tool. The plurality of unsintered particles were sieved using a 100 US mesh (ASTM E-11 with openings of 150 microns), such that the maximum particle size of the plurality of unsintered particles was less than 100 US mesh. The plurality of abrasive particles had an absorbed moisture content of approximately 10-15% for the total weight of the particles.
The production tool was then inverted and the opposite side of the gel mixture was humidified with a sponge while residing in the cavities of the production tool. The plurality of abrasive particles were then applied to the humidified surface, such that both major surfaces of the exposed gel mixture in the cavities of the production tool were coated with a plurality of abrasive particles. The excess abrasive particles were removed and the mixture and plurality of abrasive particles were dried in the cavities at approximately 50° C. for 10 minutes using IR lamps and a fan to form precursor abrasive particles. The precursor abrasive particles were removed from the production tool and sintered at approximately 1325° C. for approximately 10 minutes to achieve at least 98% theoretical density. The resulting abrasive particles had a body including a triangular two-dimensional shape including a length of approximately 1550 microns, a width of approximately 1350 microns, and a height of approximately 300 microns.
Sample S2 was formed using the same gel mixture as noted above for Sample S1. The gel mixture was placed in a die and extruded into openings of a production tool made of PEEK that was translated under the die as described in embodiments herein. The openings in the production tool were the same as described above for the production tool used in Sample S1, except that the production tool had a thickness of approximately 0.54 mm. In a first batch of Sample S2 (Sample Batch S2B1), a plurality of abrasive particles were deposited via gravity on a single side of the gel mixture while it resided in the cavities of the production tool. The plurality of abrasive particles was the same as used in Sample S1.
In a second batch of Sample S2 (Sample Batch S2B2), a plurality of abrasive particles was deposited on both major surfaces of the mixture while it resided in the cavities of the production tool. For a first major surface, the plurality of abrasive particles was deposited via gravity (e.g., by sprinkling the particles on the production tool and gel mixture in the cavities). For the opposite major surface, the plurality of abrasive particles was contained on a surface that is repeatedly pressed against the bottom surface of the production tool to apply the abrasive particles to the bottom surface of the gel mixture while it resided in the cavities. Thus, a plurality of abrasive particles was applied to both major surfaces of the gel mixture while it resided in the cavities. The plurality of abrasive particles was the same as described in Sample S1.
In both batches of Sample S2, the production tool was translated through a set of rollers that applied pressure to the top and bottom surfaces of the production tool and assisted with imbedding the abrasive particles into the gel mixture while it resided in the cavities.
For both batches of Sample S2, the mixture was dried for approximately 5 minutes at approximately 50-55° C. using an IR lamp and a fan. For both batches of Sample S2, the samples were removed from the production tool and sintered according to the conditions as provided in Sample S1. The abrasive particles of Sample Batch S1B1 had an average tip sharpness of 20 microns, a Shape Index of approximately 0.5, and an average cross-sectional shape factor of approximately 21%. The abrasive particles of Sample Batch S1B2 had an average tip sharpness of 20 microns, a Shape Index of approximately 0.5, and an average cross-sectional shape factor of approximately 30%.
Samples CS1 and S1 were tested according to a single grit grinding test (SGGT) in a major surface orientation and side orientation. In conducting the SGGT, one single shaped abrasive particle is held in a grit holder by a bonding material of epoxy. The shaped abrasive particle is secured in the desired orientation (i.e., major surface orientation or side surface orientation) and moved across a workpiece of 304 stainless steel for a scratch length of 8 inches using a wheel speed of 22 m/s and an initial scratch depth of 30 microns. The shaped abrasive particle produces a groove in the workpiece having a cross-sectional area (AR). For each sample set, each shaped abrasive particle completes 15 passes across the 8 inch length, 10 individual particles are tested for each of the orientation and the results are analyzed. The test measures the tangential force exerted by the grit on the workpiece, in the direction that is parallel to the surface of the workpiece and the direction of the groove, and the net change in the cross-sectional area of the groove from beginning to the end of the scratch length is measured to determine the shaped abrasive particle wear. The net change in the cross-sectional area of the groove for each pass can be measured. For the SGGT, the net cross-sectional area of the groove is defined as the difference between the cross-sectional area of the groove below the surface and the cross sectional area of the material displaced above the surface. Performance (Ft/A) is defined as the ratio of the tangential force to the net cross-sectional area of the groove.
The SGGT is conducted using two different orientations of the shaped abrasive particles relative to the workpiece. The SGGT is conducted with a first sample set of shaped abrasive particles in a major surface orientation wherein a major surface of each shaped abrasive particle is oriented perpendicular to the grinding direction such that the major surface initiates grinding on the workpiece. The results of the SGGT using the sample set of shaped abrasive particles in a major surface orientation allows for measurement of the grinding efficiency of the shaped abrasive particles in a major surface orientation.
The SGGT is also conducted with a second sample set of shaped abrasive particles in a side surface orientation wherein a side surface of each shaped abrasive particle is oriented perpendicular to the grinding direction such that the side surface initiates grinding of the workpiece. The results of the SGGT test using the sample set of shaped abrasive particles in a side orientation allows for measurement of the grinding efficiency of the shaped abrasive particles in a side orientation.
Abrasive particles Sample Batch S2B1 were formed into coated abrasive articles having the construction, which is provided below. A backing of finished cloth of 18 pounds per ream were obtained and coated with a make formulation including of a phenol formaldehyde as provided in Table 1. The web with the make coat was then followed by an electrostatic deposition process applying 40 pounds per ream of abrasive particles from Sample Batch S2B1. This partial structure of make coated web and grain was then dried in an oven for two hours at 80° C.
34%
57%
The coated abrasive structures were then coated with 14 pounds per ream of a phenol formaldehyde size coat. The detailed composition of the size coat is presented in Table 2. The web was transported through a drier which had a dry bulb temperature setting of 120° C. for a period of two hours.
The coated abrasive sample was then placed into a convection oven to undergo a post curing step in which the oven temperature was 125° C. for 12 hours.
A third sample of a coated abrasive, Sample S3 was also made. The abrasive particles of Sample S3 were made according to the process used to make the abrasive particles of Sample Batch S2B1, but did not include deposition of a plurality of abrasive particles on the shaped abrasive particles. The construction of the coated abrasive of Sample S3 was the same as for the coated abrasive including the particles of Sample Batch S2B1. Particles of Sample CS1 were tested as a conventional coated abrasive article commercially available at 984F from 3M Corporation.
Each of the three different coated abrasive samples was tested according to the conditions summarized in Table 3. Notably, 2 sample coated abrasives were tested in each case to derive the results.
A new sample of abrasive particles (Sample S4) was formed. The shaped abrasive particles of Sample S4 were formed from a gel mixture including approximately 45-50 wt % boehmite. The boehmite was obtained from Sasol Corp. as Catapal B and modified by autoclaving a 30% by weight mixture of the Catapal B with deionized water and nitric acid. The nitric acid-to-boehmite ratio was approximately 0.025 in the autoclave and treated at 100° C. to 250° C. for a time ranging from 5 minutes to 24 hours. The autoclaved Catapal B sol was dried by conventional means. The boehmite was mixed and seeded with 1% alpha alumina seeds relative to the total alumina content of the mixture. The alpha alumina seeds were made by milling of corundum using conventional techniques, described for example in U.S. Pat. No. 4,623,364. The mixture also included 45-50 wt % water and 2.5-4 wt % additional nitric acid, which were used to form the gel mixture. The ingredients were mixed in a planetary mixer of conventional design and mixed under reduced pressure to remove gaseous elements from the mixture (e.g., bubbles).
The gel was then placed in a die and extruded into openings of a production tool translated under the die at a suitable speed relative to the deposition rate such that the openings were sufficiently filled. The cavities were open to both sides of the production tool, such that they were apertures extending through the entire thickness of the production tool. The cavities or openings of the production tool had an equilateral triangle two-dimensional shape as viewed top down, wherein the length was approximately 2.77 mm, the width was approximately 2.4 mm and the depth was approximately 0.60 mm. The production tool had a thickness of approximately 0.60 mm. The surfaces of the openings in the production tool were coated with a lubricant of canola oil to facilitate removal of the precursor shaped abrasive particles from the production tool.
After depositing of the gel into the openings of the production tool, a plurality of dried, unsintered, particles of the same gel material deposited in the openings were projected at the surface of the gel in the production tool. The plurality of abrasive particles were forcibly ejected toward the gel in the production tool using air as the carrier material at an approximate pressure of 40 psi. The process of applying the plurality of abrasive particles was completed in a container, wherein a vast majority of the excess or unbonded abrasive particles could be captured and recycled for future application processes. The gel was not humidified prior to deposition of the plurality of abrasive particles. Prior to deposition, the plurality of dried, unsintered particles were sieved using a 100 US mesh (ASTM E-11 with openings of 150 microns), such that the maximum particle size of the plurality of unsintered particles was less than 100 US mesh. The plurality of abrasive particles had an absorbed moisture content of approximately 10-15% for the total weight of the particles. Approximately 70% of the precursory shaped abrasive particle had a suitably high coverage of the plurality of dried, unsintered particles on the first major surface.
The excess dried, unsintered particles were removed and the mixture and plurality of abrasive particles were dried in the cavities at approximately 50° C. for 30 seconds using IR lamps and a fan to form precursor abrasive particles. The precursor abrasive particles were removed from the production tool, pre-sintered at 800° C. and sintered at approximately 1320° C. for approximately 15 minutes to achieve 98% theoretical density. The resulting abrasive particles had a body including a triangular two-dimensional shape including a length of approximately 1550 microns, a width of approximately 1350 microns, and a height of approximately 300 microns. The abrasive particle of Sample S4 had an average strength of approximately 20.3 MPa, an average tip sharpness of 30 microns, a Shape Index of approximately 0.5.
Another sample of abrasive particles (Sample CS4) were formed in the same manner as noted above for Sample S4, except that the abrasive particles did not include a plurality of abrasive particles on the surface of the shaped abrasive particles (i.e., unmodified shaped abrasive particles).
Two samples of coated abrasive articles were formed from the abrasive particles of Samples S4 and CS4 to create coated abrasive samples CAS4 and CACS4, respectively. The coated abrasive samples CAS4 and CACS4 were formed in the same manner used to form the coated abrasive samples of Example 1 for Samples CS1 and Sample Batch S2B1.
Each coated abrasive sample was tested according to the test outlined in Table 4 below. Two samples of the coated abrasives were tested in each case to derive the results.
Five samples of abrasive particles (S5-1, S5-2, S5-3, S5-4, and S5-5) were formed to investigate the impact of the median particle size of the plurality of abrasive particles on the percent coverage of the abrasive particles on at least one surface of the shaped abrasive particles. Table 5 below summarizes the impact of the median particle size of the plurality of abrasive particles on the percent coverage of the plurality of abrasive particles on a first major surface of a shaped abrasive particle having a generally triangular two-dimensional shape having a length of approximate 1550 μm, a width of approximately 1350 μm, and a height of approximately 320 μm. The abrasive particles were formed in the same manner used to form Sample S4 of Example 2, except that the surfaces of the gel in the production tool were humidified prior to deposition of the plurality of dried, unsintered abrasive particles. The humidification process utilized steam (i.e. a mix of water in the gaseous state and suspended liquid particles) directed at the surfaces of the gel in the production tool.
Four samples of abrasive particles (Sample S6-1, Sample S6-2, CS1, and Sample S6-3) were tested according to the single grit grinding test, as described in Example 1. Sample S6-1, Sample 56-2, and Sample S6-3 were formed in the same manner as Sample S4 of Example 2, except that Sample S6-1 had an average of 32 abrasive particles bonded to the major surfaces of the bodies of the shaped abrasive particles and Sample S6-2 had an average of 7 abrasive particles bonded to the major surfaces of the bodies of the shaped abrasive particles. Sample S6-3 had no plurality of abrasive particles bonded to the surface of the shaped abrasive particle.
Two samples of abrasive particles were made. A first sample, Sample S7-1 was formed in the same manner used to form Sample S4 of Example 2 except that the surfaces of the gel in the production tool were humidified prior to deposition of the plurality of dried, unsintered abrasive particles. The humidification process utilized steam directed at the surfaces of the gel in the production tool. The plurality of abrasive particles attached to the first major surface of the shaped abrasive particle of Sample S7-1 had not been calcined or sintered. A second sample, Sample S7-2 was formed in the same manner used to form Sample S7-1, except that sintered alpha alumina grains were used for the plurality of abrasive particles attached to a first major surface of the shaped abrasive particles. Sample S7-1 demonstrated significantly better coverage, wherein 90-95% of the particles were suitably covered with the plurality of abrasive particles compared to Sample S7-2, which had only 60-70% of total particles formed with a suitable covering of the plurality of abrasive particles for the first major surface of the shaped abrasive particles. It is theorized that the sintered abrasive particles applied to the surface of the precursor shaped abrasive particles for Sample S7-2 did not bond well to the surface, but the green, unsintered grains applied to the surface of Sample S7-1 had improved bonding as the dried grains could re-gel with the humidified surface of the gel prior to further processing.
Two samples of abrasive particles were made. A first sample, Sample S8-1 was formed in the same manner used to form Sample S4 of Example 2. The plurality of abrasive particles attached to the first major surface of the shaped abrasive particle of Sample S8-1 had not been calcined or sintered. A second sample, Sample S8-2 was formed in the same manner used to form Sample S8-1, except that no abrasive particles were deposited on the surfaces of the gel or resulting shaped abrasive particles.
Coated abrasive articles in the form of discs having a diameter of 7 inches were then created using the abrasive particles of Samples S8-1 and S8-2 to create samples CAS8-1 and CAS8-2, respectively. The samples CAS8-1 and CAS8-2 were formed according to the following process:
A make coat formulation as provided in Table 6 below was applied to a fiber backing material available from Sachsenroder having an average thickness of 0.95 mm. The wet laydown weight of the make coat was 9 lbs/ream+/−0.3 lbs and was applied using a two roll coat method using a steel roll over a 65-72 Shore A durometer hard rubber roll.
The viscosity of the formulation was adjusted using water to a range of 9500 to 10500 cps at 100° F. After the make coat was applied, the abrasive particles of Samples S8-1 and S8-2 were silane treated and applied to the make coat via electrostatic projection. The target grain weight for each of the samples was 55 lbs/ream+/−3 lbs. The particles of each of the samples were pre-heated before projection.
After projecting the particles onto the make coat and backing, the make coat was cured in a festoon oven using the following process: step 1) 42 minutes at 150° F.; step 2) 42 minutes at 170° F.; step 3) 38 minutes at 200° F.; step 4) 43 minutes at 215° F.; and step 5) 23 minutes at 230° F.
After the make coat was cured, a size coat having the formulation provided in Table 7 was applied to the surface of the particles and cured make coat.
The formulation of the size coat was adjusted using water to a viscosity range of 5400 to 5600 cps at 100° F. The size coat was applied using the same machine set up as used to apply the make coat. The size is controlled visually versus a known standard including a gap setting for the two roll coater was set at 0.045 inches.
After applying the size coat, the material was cured in a festoon oven using the following process: step 1) 20 minutes at 130° F. and 45% RH; step 2) 20 minutes at 170° F.; step 3) 20 minutes at 190° F.; step 4) 20 minutes at 210° F.; and step 5) 30 minutes at 235° F. The material is then rolled up and cured in a post cure oven for 12 hours at 250° F.
Upon removing the roll from the post cure oven the backing is flexed and re-moisturized by application of water.
Each of the coated abrasive samples were tested according to the conditions summarized below in Table 8.
All values, ratios, percentages and/or quantified data provided herein with respect to an abrasive particle of any embodiment, can also be an average derived from a random and statistically relevant sample size of representative abrasive particles. For example, with respect to the percent coverage of the plurality of abrasive particles on the body, such percentages can also be calculated from a random and statistically relevant sample size of a batch of abrasive particles. The size of the sample may differ depending upon the size of the batch.
Notably, reference herein to a composition that is “free of” another material (e.g., material Z) may be interpreted as a composition that may have traces or impurity contents of material Z, but such contents do not materially affect the properties of the composition. For example, a material may be “free of” a particular species and such species may be present in an amount of not greater than 0.1% or not greater than 0.01% or not greater than 0.001%. This paragraph is not to be interpreted to narrow any other disclosure in the foregoing embodiments and is intended only to define those instances using the term “free of.” Moreover, in instances where a particular species is not expressly identified, Applicants reserve the right to further define the material as being free of said particular species. However, unless the terminology “free of” is expressly recited, such a term cannot be interpreted to narrow those embodiments or claims using inclusive terms, such as “including,” “having,” “comprising,” and the like.
The above-disclosed subject matter is to be considered illustrative, and not restrictive, and the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications, enhancements, and other embodiments, which fall within the true scope of the present invention. Thus, to the maximum extent allowed by law, the scope of the present invention is to be determined by the broadest permissible interpretation of the following claims and their equivalents, and shall not be restricted or limited by the foregoing detailed description.
The Abstract of the Disclosure is provided to comply with Patent Law and is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. In addition, in the foregoing Detailed Description, various features may be grouped together or described in a single embodiment for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure. This disclosure is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed embodiments require more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive subject matter may be directed to less than all features of any of the disclosed embodiments. Thus, the following claims are incorporated into the Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as defining separately claimed subject matter.
This application is a Continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/757,688, entitled “SHAPED ABRASIVE PARTICLES AND METHOD OF FORMING SAME,” by Frederic Josseaux and David F. Louapre, filed Dec. 23, 2015, which is a Continuation-in-Part to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/581,220, entitled “COMPOSITE SHAPED ABRASIVE PARTICLES AND METHOD OF FORMING SAME,” by Frederic Josseaux, filed Dec. 23, 2014, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,707,529, and claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/141,181 entitled “SHAPED ABRASIVE PARTICLES AND METHOD OF FORMING SAME,” by Frederic Josseaux and David F. Louapre, filed Mar. 31, 2015, which are assigned to the current assignee hereof and incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.
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| Number | Date | Country | |
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| 20180155592 A1 | Jun 2018 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
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| Number | Date | Country | |
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| Parent | 14757688 | Dec 2015 | US |
| Child | 15887466 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parent | 14581220 | Dec 2014 | US |
| Child | 14757688 | US |
