Surface grinder

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A surface grinder is a machine tool used to provide precision ground surfaces, either to a critical size or for the surface finish.

Surface Grinder with electromagnetic chuck, inset shows a Manual magnetic chuck
Surface Grinder with electromagnetic chuck, inset shows a Manual magnetic chuck

The typical precision of a surface grinder depends on the type and usage, however +/- 0.002 mm (+/- 0.0001") should be achievable on most surface grinders.

The machine consists of a table that traverses both longitudinally and across the face of the wheel. The longitudinal feed is usually powered by hydraulics, as may the cross feed, however any mixture of hand, electrical or hydraulic may be used depending on the ultimate usage of the machine (ie: production, workshop, cost). The grinding wheel rotates in the spindle head and is also adjustable for height, by any of the methods described previously. Modern surface grinders are semi-automated, depth of cut and spark-out may be preset as to the number of passes and once setup the machining process requires very little operator intervention.

Spark out is a term used when precision values are sought and literally means "until the sparks are out (no more)". It involves passing the workpiece under the wheel, without resetting the depth of cut, more than once and generally multiple times. This ensures that any inconsistencies in the machine or workpiece are eliminated.

As with any grinding operation, the condition of the wheel is extremely important. Diamond dressers are used to maintain the condition of the wheel, these may be table mounted or as the first image shows, mounted in the wheel head where they can be readily applied.

The machine has provision for the application of coolant as well as the extraction of metal dust (metal and grinding particles).

Depending on the workpiece material, the work is generally held by the use of a magnetic chuck. This may be either an electromagnetic chuck or a manually operated, both types are shown in the first image.

[edit] See also

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Grinding and lapping in metalworking
Grinding and lapping
Metalworking topics