A grinding machine is a heavy-duty machine that’s used to remove material from the surface of a workpiece. While milling machines feature a rotating cutting tool that’s placed against a stationary workpiece, a grinding machine features a rotating grinding wheel, which is also placed against a stationary workpiece. There are several different types of grinding machines, however, each of which works in a different way.

Metal Grinding is used to finish off rough edges, deburr metal parts, smooth welds, create sharp edges and sometimes create unique finished looks like the jitterbug finish on a metal part. 

Types of Metal Grinders

·         Belt Grinder

·         Bench Grinder

·         Surface Grinder

·         Cylinder Grinder

·         Punch & Die Grinder

Belt Grinding Machine

Belt grinding machines are characterized by the use of a belt sander. Like other grinding machines, they are designed to remove material from workpieces, thereby making workpieces smaller and with a smoother and more desirable surface. With belt grinding, the belt is coated in an abrasive material, after which it’s run against the surface of a workpiece until the desired results are achieved. Belt grinding is most commonly performed on metal workpieces, though it supports workpieces made of other materials as well.

Bench Grinding Machine

Bench grinding machines are characterized by their bench-like shape. They usually feature two different grinding wheels: one for the removal of material and another for finishing processes. They are called “bench grinding machines” because their grinding wheels are secured to the top of a workbench. As a result, bench grinding machines are easy and convenient for manufacturing workers to use.

Surface Grinding Machine

A third type of grinding machine is a surface grinding machine. Surface grinding machines are unique because they feature an adjustable head. The head on a surface grinding machine can be lowered down to the workpiece. Once lowered, the head can then rotate back and forth under the machine’s grinding wheel.

While belt grinding machines are typically used for finishing processes, surface grinding machines are most commonly used for material removal. When compared to other grinding machines, surface grinding machines are able to remove significant amounts of material, making them desirable for such applications.

Cylindrical Grinding Machine

A cylindrical grinder is used for shaping the outside of a workpiece. These machines accept workpieces in a variety of shapes if 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 centerless grinders are all types of cylindrical grinders.

Punch and Die Grinding Machine

Punch and Die grinder enables sheet metal fabricators to maintain their punch press tooling by making it easy to sharpen punches and dies.

Manufacturing Solutions has a variety of New Grinders and Used Grinders to suit your Company's needs. Check out our Grinder pages or give us a call. We're here to help!