Fast Magnetic Abrasive Finishing with Diffusionally Alloyed Powder

General information is presented regarding magnetic abrasive finishing (MAF) and the abrasive powders employed. This technology proves most effective in the finishing of complex components and also in machining internal surfaces components that are largely inaccessible by traditional wheel grinding. The requirements on the ferromagnetic abrasives employed are noted. Such powders are characterized by great surface hardness and good magnetic properties. Data are presented regarding the types of powder employed, their production, and their advantages and disadvantages. New ferromagnetic abrasives produced by diffusional alloying of iron-based powder are proposed. The new diffusionally alloyed powders decrease surface roughness by a factor of 4–5: machined surfaces of roughness R a = 0.01 µm are possible. The properties and structure of powder produced by differential boriding of iron (Fe) powder of diameter 25–50 µm are inve-stigated.