Grinding processes are classified into different types based on the surface being machined and the method used. Common types of grinding include surface grinding, cylindrical grinding, centerless grinding, and tool and cutter grinding, each suited for specific applications.
In this article:
Types of Grinding
Grinding is a precision machining process used to achieve high surface finish and accuracy. Depending on the workpiece shape, size, and application, there are several types of grinding operations. Below is a detailed explanation of the main types of grinding.
1. Surface Grinding
Description:
- Produces flat surfaces on a workpiece.
- Workpiece is held on a magnetic chuck or table.
- Grinding wheel moves parallel to the surface.
Features:
- Produces accurate flat surfaces.
- High surface finish.
- Can be horizontal or vertical wheel orientation.
Applications:
- Flat machine parts (plates, tools, dies).
- Finishing of hardened steel surfaces.
2. Cylindrical Grinding
Description:
- Produces external or internal cylindrical surfaces.
- Workpiece rotates on centers, and the grinding wheel rotates in the opposite direction.
Types:
- Outside diameter (OD) grinding – grinding outer surface.
- Inside diameter (ID) grinding – grinding holes or bores.
- Plunge grinding – wheel moves only radially, not along axis.
- Traverse grinding – wheel moves along the workpiece axis.
Applications:
- Shafts, rods, pins, bearing journals.
- Automotive and aerospace components.
3. Centerless Grinding
Description:
- Workpiece is supported between two wheels and a guide; no centers needed.
- One wheel rotates faster than the workpiece; the other controls position.
Features:
- High production rate.
- Continuous operation.
- Very precise diameter control.
Applications:
- Mass production of cylindrical parts.
- Automotive pins, bolts, and rods.
4. Internal Grinding
Description:
- Used to grind the inside diameter of holes.
- Small grinding wheel rotates inside the hole.
- Workpiece rotates or is stationary.
Applications:
- Bearing bores.
- Cylindrical cavities.
- Precision machine parts.
5. Tool and Cutter Grinding
Description:
- Used to sharpen, shape, or manufacture cutting tools.
- Examples: drills, taps, end mills, lathe tools.
- Wheel shape matches the tool geometry.
Applications:
- Manufacturing of cutting tools.
- Resharpening worn tools.
6. Form Grinding
Description:
- Grinding wheel is shaped to produce irregular profiles.
- Wheel shape matches final workpiece contour.
Applications:
- Gears.
- Camshafts.
- Special dies and molds.
7. Profile Grinding
Description:
- A form of precision grinding to produce complex contours or shapes.
- Often done with CNC grinders.
Applications:
- Aerospace components.
- Automotive parts.
- Tooling dies.
8. Creep-Feed Grinding
Description:
- Deep cuts in a single pass at low speed.
- Produces high material removal while maintaining accuracy.
- Wheel moves slowly relative to the workpiece.
Applications:
- Aerospace titanium parts.
- Heavy-duty steel components.
9. Double-Disc Grinding
Description:
- Workpiece passes between two grinding wheels.
- Used to grind both sides simultaneously.
Applications:
- Cutting tools.
- Precision flat components.
10. Surface Creep-Feed Grinding
Description:
- Combines surface grinding with deep material removal in one pass.
- Produces complex, hardened surfaces.
Applications:
- Die and mold surfaces.
- Hardened steel parts.
Comparison Table of Grinding Types
| Grinding Type | Workpiece Shape | Features | Applications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Surface | Flat | High surface finish | Plates, dies, tools |
| Cylindrical | Round | OD or ID grinding | Shafts, rods, bearings |
| Centerless | Cylindrical | No centers, high production | Pins, bolts |
| Internal | Hollow | Grind holes | Bearings, bores |
| Tool & Cutter | Any | Tool shaping/sharpening | Drills, end mills |
| Form | Irregular | Wheel matches profile | Gears, cams |
| Profile | Complex | CNC-controlled | Aerospace parts |
| Creep-Feed | Flat or cylindrical | Deep cut, slow | Titanium, steel parts |
| Double-Disc | Flat | Both sides at once | Tools, flat plates |
Conclusion:
Grinding can flatten surfaces, finish cylinders, sharpen tools, or create complex shapes using rotating abrasive wheels tailored to the workpiece.
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