Machine shops use a variety of grinding processes to shape metals, giving them the ability to fabricate parts, components, and objects of almost any size and shape. Two of the most common methods, cylindrical and centerless grinding, share important similarities, but there are important differences that make each more appropriate for certain applications. Understanding the distinction can help ensure you choose a machine shop with the capabilities you need.

Cylindrical Grinding

There are several variations of cylindrical grinding methods, but all involve supporting the workpiece with chucks or centers. An interior motor rotates the object on an axis, with a large grinding wheel rotating at a high speed to remove metal from the object. Cylindrical grinding can produce extremely accurate results and is often used to produce camshafts, pistons, and other parts with a central axis of rotation.

Centerless Grinding

Like cylindrical grinding, centerless grinding also involves rotating a workpiece against a high-speed grinding wheel. However, in this method, the object is not secured with chucks or centers, making it more appropriate for solid parts that lack a hollow center.

Because parts don’t have to be affixed in place, centerless grinding can be much faster than other processes and can produce much more accurate results. Centerless grinding is best for high-precision applications that require exacting precision with very low margins for error.

With a broad array of capabilities and a reputation for producing excellent work on even the most demanding projects, R. A. Heller Co. is one of Cincinnati, OH’s leading machine shops. Their technicians have been serving businesses throughout the area for over 70 years; they offer a complete range of services, from hard plating to centerless grinding. Visit their website or call (513) 771-6100 to request a quote on your project and follow their Facebook for more tips and advice.