A grinding machine or grinder is an industrial power tool that uses an abrasive wheel for cutting. There are various grinding machine types, each with a different purpose. Here's a look at some of the most common types of precision grinding machines.
A surface grinder consists of an abrasive wheel, a chuck (a workpiece holding device), and a rotary table. The chuck is used to hold the material in place while the wheel and object are rotated to produce a smooth finish.
A cylindrical grinder is used for shaping the outside of a workpiece. These machines accept workpieces in a variety of shapes as long as they can be rotated through a central axis. In a cylindrical grinder, both the workpiece and grinding wheel are simultaneously rotated. Outside diameter grinders, internal diameter grinders, and centreless grinders are all types of cylindrical grinders.
A centreless grinder is a type of cylindrical grinder which uses two rotary wheels to secure the workpiece in place. Unlike a centred grinder, a centreless grinder does not make use of a spindle. The speed of the rotation of the wheels determines at what rate the material is removed.
A tool and cutter grinder makes use of a CNC machine tool with up to 5 axes and multiple grinding wheels. These devices are used for sharpening and producing milling cutters such as drills, end mills, and step tools. It is also widely used for producing the tools needed in the woodworking and metal cutting industries.