How does crushing affect the shape of abrasive grains?

The process of crushing is essential for preparing abrasive grains, and the specific methods used significantly influence the resulting shape and performance of the material.1

• Heavy Crushing Pressures: Applying high pressure during the crushing process tends to produce grains that are splintery, sharp, and relatively weak. These characteristics allow the grains to penetrate materials easily and remove them at a fast rate; furthermore, their sharp edges break down readily, which facilitates self-sharpening. This specific grain shape is often preferred for various coated abrasive products.1
• Regular Shaping: When an application requires grinding large amounts of material under heavy pressure, a more regularly shaped and stronger abrasive grain is required. In these instances, extreme sharpness is less critical because the high operating pressures force the abrasive to penetrate the material being ground, and a stronger grain ensures the tool lasts longer.1