Abstract:The new magnetic-assisted abrasive polishing process for non-ferrous materials was proposed in order to increase the magnetic flux density which directly influences the contact force between the workpiece and the abrasives. The permanent magnets were installed under the workpiece and their effects were verified by the experiments. The effect of polishing factors on the improvement of surface roughness was evaluated based on the Taguchi experimental method, and the optimal conditions for polishing AISI316 stainless steel were determined. The predicting model for improving surface roughness was developed and the validity of the developed model was tested. The results show that the permanent magnets are very useful in improving the surface roughness in the magnetic-assisted abrasive polishing process.

Key words: nonferrous metals; surface analysis; magnetic-assisted abrasive polishing process; contact force