What is lapping?

Lapping is a machining process used to produce a smooth, flat surface on a workpiece by rubbing it against a flat surface with a fine abrasive grit and a liquid or paste called a lapping compound. This process is often used to improve the accuracy and finish of a workpiece, as well as to remove surface imperfections such as scratches or corrosion.

The lapping process is typically performed on a lapping machine, which consists of a rotating plate or disc covered with the abrasive compound. The workpiece is pressed against the rotating plate and moved back and forth in a circular motion, which allows the abrasive particles to remove material from the workpiece's surface.

Lapping is commonly used in the manufacturing of precision components such as valves, gears, and optical components, as well as in the finishing of metal parts that require a high degree of flatness and parallelism. It can also be used to improve the fit and finish of mating surfaces in assemblies.

One of the key advantages of lapping is its ability to produce extremely flat and smooth surfaces with tight tolerances. Additionally, lapping can be used to remove very small amounts of material from a workpiece without causing distortion or warping, making it ideal for finishing delicate or thin-walled parts.

Overall, lapping is a versatile and effective machining process that can help improve the quality and performance of a wide range of precision components.