Study on the effects of ball burnishing parameters and initial surface roughness on the core roughness characteristics of Copper cylindrical parts

Parameters of core roughness are important in the determination of contact area and performance of engaged surfaces which can be modified using finishing processes. Burnishing is a mechanical behavior on the surface to enhance surface characteristics and work hardening which can change core roughness parameters. In this research, a comprehensive study on the surface roughness parameters especially, peak and valley core roughness, before and after of ball burnishing process is presented on the copper cylindrical parts. Initial surface roughness and a tool with different balls are important inputs of the current research which are studied besides other parameters such as burnishing force and feed. Results showed that the burnishing process has reduced surface roughness by about 90 to 96 percent. Also, ball diameter of 20 mm decreased Ra about 20% in comparison to ball diameter of 12 mm. Peak core roughness (Rpk) and valley core roughness (Rvk) presented decreasing of 80% to 90% and 20% to 80%, respectively which prove lower effectiveness of burnishing process on the Rvk. Hence, an initial condition especially the initial surface roughness has a great effect on the Rvk. Considering other parameters, initial surfaces prepared using sandpaper with a grit size of 60 and turning with a feed of 0.24 mm/rev which associated with the highest surface roughness, presented a significant reduction of roughness parameters after the ball burnishing process.