The Use of Focus-Variation Microscopy for the Assessment of Active Surfaces of a New Generation of Coated Abrasive Tools

In this paper, the selected results of measurements and analysis of the active surfaces of a new generation of coated abrasive tools obtained by the use of focus-variation microscopy (FVM) are presented and discussed. The origin of this technique, as well as its general metrological characteristics is briefly described. Additionally, information regarding the focus variation microscope used in the experiments - InfiniteFocus^® IF G4 produced by Alicona Imaging, is also given. The measurements were carried out on microfinishing films (IMFF), abrasive portable belts with Cubitron™ II grains, and single-layer abrasive discs with Trizact™ grains. The obtained results were processed and analyzed employing TalyMap 4.0 software in the form of maps and profiles, surface microtopographies, Abbott- Firestone curves, and calculated values of selected areal parameters. This allowed us to describe the active surfaces of the coated abrasive tools, as well as to assess the possibility of applying the FVM technique in such kinds of measurements.