Diamond-turning HP-21 beryllium to achieve an optical surface

Technical Report · Thu Sep 25 04:00:00 EDT 1975

DOI:https://doi.org/10.2172/4145509· OSTI ID:4145509

Allen, D K; Hauschildt, H W; Bryan, J B

Investigation of diamond turning on beryllium was made in anticipation of obtaining an optical finish. Although results of past experiences were poor, it was decided to continue diamond turning on beryllium beyond initial failures. By changing speed and using coolant, partial success was achieved. Tool wear was the major problem. Tests were made to establish and plot wear as a function of cutting speed and time. Slower speeds did cause lower wear rates, but at no time did wear reach an acceptable level. The machine, tools, and procedure used were chosen based on the results of preliminary attempts and on previous experience. It was unnecessary to use an air-bearing spindle because tool failure governed the best finish that could be expected. All tools of diamond composition, whether single crystal or polycrystalline, wore at unacceptable rates. Based on present technology, it must be concluded that beryllium cannot be feasibly diamond turned to achieve an optical finish. (22 fig.) (auth)

• Research Organization: California Univ., Livermore (USA). Lawrence Livermore Lab.
• DOE Contract Number: W-7405-ENG-48
• NSA Number: NSA-33-007795
• OSTI ID: 4145509
• Report Number(s): UCRL--51916
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

*BERYLLIUM-- SURFACE FINISHING
*CUTTING TOOLS-- WEAR
*DIAMONDS-- WEAR
360101* --Materials--Metals & Alloys--Preparation & Fabrication
N50220* --Metals
Ceramics
& Other Materials--Metals & Alloys--Preparation & Fabrication