In machining, grinding is one type of finishing. In turn, grinding falls into several different types. Among the more common are outside diameter (OD) and interior or internal diameter (ID) grinding. One other major type, which can be ID or OD is centerless grinding.
Purpose and Distinctions
Like all forms of grinding, this type is a finishing process. Its purpose is to remove small amounts of metal from a workpiece. A form of cylindrical grinding, the centerless option utilizes abrasive cutting and friction to produce a smooth surface on cylindrical (tubular) pieces. Operators turn to this machine when the workpieces are long and/or narrow. They may also employ it when the item they are asked to finish has different diameters.
However, a centerless grinder is different from other types of grinders. It eliminates two necessary requirements found in other grinding machines. These are:
1. The need for center holes
2. The necessity of using a holding device for the workpiece
Instead, when it comes to centerless grinding process, the operator rests the workpiece on the work-rest blade. The smaller regulating wheel is often comprised of a rubber-bonded abrasive or plastic. It backs up the actions of the larger grinding wheel while controlling the feed of the work. The two wheels rotate in the same direction, however, in order to control the rate of workpiece spin, the regulating wheel travels slower than the normal speed of the grinding wheel.
Applications of Centerless Grinding
Grinders employ a centerless grinder in various applications. Grinders employ it to finish off:
* Bearing races
* Bearing rings
* Drill rod
* Steel mill rolls
* Centerless Grinding
Centerless grinding is one means through which companies can achieve a finished product. A relatively inexpensive method, it is adaptable to automation, including CNC. When employed properly, it can help to improve production in various ways including capability, quality, and volume.
