ABSTRACT
Diamond and cubic boron nitride abrasives used in grinding applications are collectively referred to as superabrasives. Diamond is the hardest material known, and cubic boron nitride is the second hardest. The invention of the synthetic diamond caused the rapid growth of diamond in a wide variety of abrasive applications. In addition to its high hardness, diamond is an excellent heat conductor and has an extremely low coefficient of friction. In addition to its high hardness, diamond is an excellent heat conductor and has an extremely low coefficient of friction. Diamond abrasive belts are used in finishing of carbides, ceramics and glass, frequently in the ultra-precision finishing of electronic and ceramic components. Diamond abrasives are used in a wide variety of applications in the construction industry. The use of diamond abrasives in cutoff operations, and other surface generation needs is the basis for a variety of precision grinding applications.
