What Are the Two Types of Cylindrical Grinding?

Cylindrical grinding is a common precision machining process used to shape and finish cylindrical workpieces. It involves the use of a grinding wheel to remove material from the workpiece's surface and create the desired shape or finish. There are two primary types of cylindrical grinding: plunge grinding and traverse grinding. Let's explore each type in more detail.

Plunge Grinding:

Plunge grinding, also known as infeed grinding, is a cylindrical grinding process where the grinding wheel plunges into the workpiece to remove material. This type of grinding is commonly used for machining operations that require precise dimensions, such as creating cylindrical or tapered features. Here are some key characteristics of plunge grinding:

a. Single or Multiple Plunges: Plunge grinding can involve a single plunge or multiple plunges depending on the desired outcome. In single plunge grinding, the wheel is fed into the workpiece to remove a specific amount of material in one pass. Multiple plunge grinding involves retracting the wheel after each plunge and re-engaging it to remove additional material.

b. Precise Depth Control: Plunge grinding allows for precise control over the depth of cut. This makes it suitable for applications where specific depths or dimensional tolerances need to be achieved.

c. Efficient Material Removal: Plunge grinding is efficient for removing large amounts of material in a short amount of time. It is commonly used for roughing operations where the goal is to remove material quickly before applying finishing processes.

d. Suitable for Long Workpieces: Plunge grinding is well-suited for long workpieces that require grinding along their entire length. The workpiece is typically rotated while the grinding wheel plunges radially into it.

CNC Cylindrical Grinding Machine MP1820/MA1820

Traverse Grinding:

Traverse grinding, also referred to as cylindrical traverse grinding or longitudinal grinding, involves the continuous feeding of the workpiece past the rotating grinding wheel. Unlike plunge grinding, the wheel does not plunge into the workpiece. Instead, it moves across the workpiece's surface to remove material gradually. Here are some key characteristics of traverse grinding:

a. Continuous Feeding: In traverse grinding, the workpiece is fed longitudinally while the grinding wheel remains stationary or reciprocates. This feeding motion allows for consistent material removal along the length of the workpiece.

b. Surface Finish and Form Accuracy: Traverse grinding is often used for achieving precise surface finishes and maintaining the desired form of the workpiece. It is commonly employed for finishing operations where material removal is minimal.

c. Versatility: Traverse grinding can be applied to a wide range of workpiece shapes and sizes. It is particularly suitable for cylindrical components that require uniform grinding across their entire length.

d. Reduced Heat Build-up: Compared to plunge grinding, traverse grinding generates less heat. The continuous feeding motion helps dissipate heat, making it suitable for heat-sensitive materials or components that require minimal thermal distortion.

It's worth noting that plunge and traverse grinding can be used in combination or as separate operations, depending on the specific machining requirements. Machinists and engineers select the appropriate type of cylindrical grinding based on factors such as the workpiece material, size, shape, dimensional tolerances, and surface finish requirements.

In conclusion, plunge grinding and traverse grinding are the two primary types of cylindrical grinding. Plunge grinding involves the grinding wheel plunging into the workpiece to remove material, while traverse grinding feeds the workpiece past the grinding wheel. Both methods have their unique advantages and applications, allowing for precise machining and achieving desired surface finishes on cylindrical workpieces. For more information, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.