Airborne sound emission as a process monitoring tool in the cut-off grinding of concrete

A detailed analysis of the airborne sound emitted in the cut-off grinding of concrete with a diamond grinding disk is presented. It is shown that the frequency spectra of airborne sound emitted in the cutting process contain detailed information about the process conditions. As long as the machining parameters are appropriate for the work piece, the airborne sound spectra show statistically excited natural frequencies and turning frequencies. In this case the total signal level gives sufficient evidence of the work piece composition and machinability. The effects of inappropriate machining parameters, like tool deflection or very high friction forces acting on the tool, can be identified by means of distinct frequencies in the airborne sound spectra. In addition, the emitted airborne sound can be used to image the structure of the flat joint surface, which cannot be determined by another method. With regard to everyday applications, the results obtained by this procedure can be used to apply airborne sound analysis systems to machines and detect process parameters which are overstressing the cutting tool.