The main advantage of centerless grinding machines over other grinding machines is their ability to grind components of diverse shapes and sizes. You can use a centerless grinder to grind an automobile silencer pipe or even an air-conditioning duct.

Some of the other benefits offered by a centerless grinding machine are faster material removal rate, high feed rates, constant surface finish, cooler grinding operation and short set-up time. Some of the important parameters you must consider before purchasing a centerless grinding machine are:

1. Material and weight of the component
2. Range of dimensions and tolerance requirement
3. Floor space available for the centerless grinder

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Buy a suitable centerless grinder from a manufacturer

Centerless grinding machine manufacturers offer machines suitable for various types of centerless grinding (or grind) such as through-feed grind, in-feed grind and end-feed grind. As the shape of the component determines the type of centerless grind operation, make sure you select the appropriate machine that is compatible with the shape of the component and the grinding operation.

I recommend: Ganesh Machinery manufactures centerless grinding machines with manual as well as CNC controls. Stephen Bader & Co. offers industrial centerless grinders and their accessories. Koyo Machinery offers centerless grinders suitable for medical equipment manufacturers.

Use standard accessories and parts for the centerless grinding machine

For efficient and smooth functioning of a centerless grinder, use standard centerless grinder parts and accessories. Commonly used centerless grinding machine accessories are grinding briefs, abrasive discs and abrasive belts.

I recommend: Workblades offers high quality centerless grinding blades. 3M is a reputable manufacturer of abrasive belts suitable for all types of grinding operations including centerless grinding. Greenhill Supply is a distributor of different grinding wheels including centerless grinding wheels.

Buy a used centerless grinder to reduce costs

You can buy a used centerless grinder for a cost-effective solution.

I recommend: Cincinnati Machines offers both new and used centerless grinding machines. Sterling Machinery Exchange is another source from which you can buy used centerless grinders. Additionally, Advanced Machinery Companies is another resource to purchase used centerless grinders at attractive prices.

Rebuild an existing centerless grinder

In case you already own a used centerless grinding machine, you can rebuild it to fit new requirements. Various servicing companies offer rebuilding of machines.

I recommend: Allways Precision rebuilds and repairs precision centerless grinding machines. Downey Grinding Company provides rebuilt services with a one-year warranty.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Keep an inventory of grinding wheels and blades compatible with the centerless grinder.
• •  Use proper coolant and additives to avoid overheating of the grinding wheels and components.