Rough Grinding and Cutting
The main goal of rough grinding and cutting off is to remove as much material (stock) as possible. Surface finish is of minor importance. This process involves leveling or smoothing edges and shaping cast, forged, or welded pieces. It can also involve removing material to form or enlarge a cavity. Typical tasks include fettling castings, trimming welding joints, or cutting off. Read more
Choosing the Tool
Several factors determine the choice of tool, including the type of grinding work, the workpiece material, shape, location, the abrasive used, and the power required. More power enables more material to be removed over time.
Choosing Wheel Diameter and Thickness
Key considerations when choosing wheel diameter include ease of use, machine speed, and economy: - Many operators prefer the smallest wheel possible as it is lighter and generates less torque - Machine speed (rpm) is crucial. Safety codes restrict maximum speeds; larger wheels have lower max speeds - Wheel thickness is also a matter of cost-effectiveness. Thicker wheels offer more abrasive material for the same price, but thinner wheels may be necessary for precision control or confined spaces
Technique - Part 1
When using grinders, the material removal pattern is unpredictable, unlike stationary machines. Each grain on the abrasive acts as a tiny cutting tool, removing small chips of material. Over time, these grains become blunt, but the right abrasive will cause blunt grains to break off, exposing new, sharp grains, which is essential for effective grinding.
Technique - Part 2
Self-sharpening is crucial for effective grinding. Grinding with a rocking movement helps different parts of the abrasive touch the workpiece, aiding the self-sharpening process. When cutting off material, this rocking motion should follow the wheel's rotation direction.
