The story of superfinish

BOOK REVIEWS. T~E STORY OF SUPERFINISH, by Arthur M. Swigert, Jr. 672 pages, illustrations, plates, I6 X 24 cms. Detroit, Lynn Publishing Company. Everyone versed in the mechanic arts knows the value of a smooth surface When that surface periodically or continually comes in contact with another smooth surface. The total machinery losses, in the United States alone, due to friction, if they were known, would reach a figure beyond belief. This fact has been recognized for many years and successful efforts have been made through the application of physics, metallurgy and engineering to reduce these losses by developing a smoother metal finish which when properly lubricated will result in less wear. Superfinish is a late development along these lines. It is the removal from the surface of a dimensionally finished metal part the fragmented metal resulting from turning, grinding, honing and lapping, when dimension and finish are simultaneously produced. Mechanically the surface is metallurgically changed from a fragmented surface of ruptured metal to a surface of smooth, unworked, crystalline metal capable of carrying greater bearing loads per unit area with either total or practically total wear elimination when properly lubricated. Yet there is removed from this surface fragmented metal usually less than .oooi inch in depth. The conception of superfinish and the designing and building of superfinishing machinery was accomplished in the plants of the Chrysler Corporation. The author of this book is Director of Production Research for the Chrysler Corporation. He states that because there was no book devoted to the many aspects and applications of the finish of metallic surfaces, he has endeavored to develop his theme from elementary principles in order clearly to present the most advanced technical information. Accordingly, the book starts with the reasons for a surface finish, the measuring of such finishes, the tools and machines used. Every effort is made to give a thorough understanding of machining methods in sufficient detail before the superfinishing method is introduced. This subject covers considerable space and is presented in logical progression, giving the process, the technique, and results of both external surfaces and internal diameters. By discussing in detail the processing of cylinder bores in automotive engines, the entire field of bore work is included. The relation of lubrication to surface finish is another division of the book. Here there are simple explanations of the theory of lubrication as it pertains to the theme of this book: finer surface finishes as exemplified by superfinish. There are also special topics of material and design of bearings, manufacturing and engineering advantages of superfinishing, and superflnishing machines. The book is replete with illustrations which add tremendously to its value. Written in readily understandable language and impressive style, it is a helpful and informative means to the production of better work by the workman whether he be mechanic, technician, engineer or executive. R. H. OPPERMANN. ~96