Short Answer:

Grinding machines are used in workshops to perform finishing operations by removing small amounts of material using abrasive wheels. These machines provide high precision and smooth surface finish, and are especially useful for hard materials. Different types of grinding machines are available, each designed for specific shapes and surfaces.

The main types of grinding machines include surface grinder, cylindrical grinder, centerless grinder, tool and cutter grinder, internal grinder, and special purpose grinders. Each type serves different applications like grinding flat surfaces, round objects, holes, and tools. Choosing the correct grinding machine depends on the job size, shape, and material.

Detailed Explanation:

Types of Grinding Machines

Grinding machines are essential in mechanical workshops for performing precision finishing operations. Unlike other cutting machines, grinding machines remove very small amounts of material to achieve a smooth and accurate finish. They are commonly used after processes like turning and milling to meet final dimensional tolerances and surface quality requirements.

The type of grinding machine used depends on the shape of the workpiece, the accuracy required, and the surface to be finished. Below are the most commonly used grinding machines in industry and workshops:

1. Surface Grinding Machine

This machine is used to grind flat surfaces. It has a rotating abrasive wheel that moves over the surface of the workpiece placed on a flat table.

Features:

• Produces very smooth finishes
• Used for grinding metal plates, machine parts, and tools
• High accuracy in vertical and horizontal grinding

Applications:

• Finishing die blocks, flat tools, and base plates

2. Cylindrical Grinding Machine

This type is used to grind the outer surface of a cylindrical workpiece. The workpiece is rotated and moved against the grinding wheel.

Types:

• External cylindrical grinding: For outer surfaces
• Internal cylindrical grinding: For inner holes

Applications:

• Shafts, rods, bearings, sleeves

3. Centerless Grinding Machine

In centerless grinding, the workpiece is held without centers. It rests between a grinding wheel and a regulating wheel, which controls the rotation and feed.

Features:

• High production rate
• No need to clamp the job
• Best for long and thin parts

Applications:

• Grinding rods, pipes, tubes, and bars

4. Tool and Cutter Grinding Machine

This machine is used to sharpen tools and cutters such as drills, reamers, and milling cutters. It has precise control for shaping and resharpening.

Features:

• Multi-functional
• Used in tool rooms and manufacturing units
• Supports complex cutting tool geometries

Applications:

• Making and resharpening cutting tools for machines

5. Internal Grinding Machine

This machine is designed for internal surface finishing, i.e., grinding inside a hole. It uses a small grinding wheel fitted into a spindle.

Features:

• High precision
• Suitable for small bores and inner surfaces

Applications:

• Bushes, engine cylinder holes, bearing races

6. Bench Grinding Machine

A bench grinder is a small, manually operated machine fixed on a bench. It has two wheels used for general-purpose grinding, sharpening, and polishing.

Applications:

• Sharpening tools like chisels, drill bits
• Light grinding tasks in workshops

7. Special Purpose Grinding Machines

These machines are built for specific jobs such as crankshaft grinding, gear grinding, or cam grinding. They are highly customized for unique industrial needs.

Applications:

• Grinding automotive components
• Precision parts in aerospace and defense

Choosing the Right Grinding Machine

• Surface needed → Use a surface grinder for flat surfaces
• Shape of part → Use cylindrical or centerless grinder
• Inner hole → Use an internal grinder
• Tool sharpening → Use a tool and cutter grinder
• Basic workshop use → Use a bench grinder

Conclusion

Grinding machines come in different types to meet specific finishing needs in the workshop or industry. From surface and cylindrical grinders to tool and internal grinders, each type serves a unique purpose. Using the correct machine ensures high accuracy, better surface quality, and increased part performance. Grinding machines are essential for final finishing operations in tool rooms, production units, and repair shops.