Surface grinder manufacturers

Types of surface grinder machines

Surface grinding machines are mainly divided into three types based on their working mechanism. Along with these three primary types, the machine also comes in various sizes and models to cater to different levels of demands and needs. Here are the primary three types of surface grinders:

• Horizontal spindle surface grinder: This is the traditional type of grinder, which is still pretty popular. It uses a horizontally mounted grinding wheel to level the surface. In a horizontal spindle surface grinder, the workpiece is fixed on a table that moves in the vertical and horizontal direction. After that, the horizontally mounted wheel levels up the workpiece. The horizontal spindle surface grinder is appreciated for its simple design and the easy-to-use nature. However, it doesn't work as effectively as its counterparts for more complex shapes and uneven surfaces.
• Vertical spindle surface grinder: The closer and more snugly mounted vertically grinding wheels on the workpiece provide a better clearance for grinding operations. Most vertical spindle grinders feature a table that moves in a vertical direction, making them a rather efficient choice for leveling surfaces with complex contours and uneven shapes. One great thing about vertical spindle grinders is that they can effectively grind flutes, cavities, and other features that are rather difficult to reach by horizontal grinders.
• Universal surface grinder: As the name suggests, universal grinders can perform many functions and work at multiple levels to cater to various needs and requirements. They are further equipped with both vertical and horizontal spindles that allow the machine to work at a more precise level with a better variety. This wide range of working mechanisms and features allows universal grinders to serve as milling and grinding machines.

Specifications and maintenance of surface grinders

Specifications of the surface grinder

Specifications may vary depending on the supplier, model, or type of surface grinder. However, here are some standard grinder surface specifications.

• Maximum table size: The maximum table size indicates the area of the surface that is supported and ground by the machine. The maximum table size of surface grinders usually 200~3000mm.
• Grinding wheel diameter: The grinding wheel diameter of surface grinders usually ranges from 200 mm to 510 mm. The surface grinder's grinding wheel diameter will affect the grinding range and efficiency of the machine.
• Grinding Accuracy: The grinding accuracy of surface grinders usually ranges from 0.01 mm to 0.005 mm, affecting the precision of the processed surface.
• Power: Surface grinders' power is usually measured in kilowatts (kW) or horsepower (HP). It indicates the power output of the grinding machine, typically ranging from 5 kW to 20 kW.
• Machine Dimension: The overall machine dimension gives buyers an idea of the size of the surface grinder. Its dimension is usually 1,000~3000mm in length, 1,000~2000mm in width, and 2,000~3000mm in height. It is helpful when considering the installation space and requirements.

Maintenance of surface grinders

Surface grinders are precision machines, and routine maintenance is essential for their accuracy, reliability, and extended lifespan. Following a scheduled maintenance program is the key to keeping the surface grinding machine in good working order. Here are some important surface grinder machine maintenance tips:

• Lubrication: Lubrication is the primary maintenance task to ensure the surface grinder works smoothly and minimize the wear of components. Regularly clean the lubrication points of the surface grinder, and apply lubricating oil or grease to the guide rails, rack, bearing points, and lubrication points to which the manufacturer specifies. Ensure enough lubricating oil to reduce friction and channel heat between parts.
• Cleaning: Routinely clean the grinding machine clean from dust and debris. This prevents the entry of foreign matter into the internal parts, which may cause abrasion and failure. Remove the dust and materials from the grinding wheel, table, guide rail, and other parts. Use a vacuum cleaner or an air blower gun to blow off the dust that is hard to reach, and then wipe the machine with a clean cloth.
• Check fasting: Simply surface grinder maintenance, but its effect on the operation of the machine is immeasurable. Regularly check all fasteners, such as screws, bolts, and nuts, to ensure they are not loose, and fasten them tightly. This prevents the surface grinder from sudden accidents, which are caused by loose fasteners, ensuring its operational safety.
• Replacement parts: After a period of use, some parts of the surface grinder may be damaged or deformed and need to be replaced. Regularly check the grinding wheel, bearings, belts, seals, and other parts for wear and tear, and replace them with new parts to ensure the stable and continuous operation of the machine.

Scenarios of surface grinder machines

A surface grinder machine is used for different purposes in the industry, hence maximizing productivity. Here are some surface grinder applications and uses for manufacturers and others in the industry.

• Surface grinders are used to level out and refine any surfaces and add corresponding angles needed for mounting other components like gaskets.
• Precision grinding is done using surface grinders on metallic surfaces. The tolerances can be refinished to accuracies of up to thousands of an inch.
• When working with complex components that need easy access to flat and perpendicular surfaces, an industrial-grade surface grinder is perfect for tackling this task. One can use them to grind through impurities like rust or tool marks.
• A surface grinder is usually a skilled and straightforward job-granting procedure that can be done with a machine or manually, making it adaptable to any work routine.
• Surface grinding machines are mainly used in manufacturing industries to achieve a perfect flatness or superior finish on the ground surface of workpieces. Such workpieces may include fixture plates, precision machine bases, and steel plates, to name a few.
• Surface grinders are also popular in tool rooms. They serve to grind various tools, jigs, and fixtures, as well as the production of flat gauges.
• The horizontal surface of a grinder can also be used on non-ferrous metals by applying a wax-based material to the target area. This will help create a protective coating while minimizing heat build-up during operation, thereby prolonging tool life.
• Grinding machines with hydraulic controls are commonly sought after by large-scale industries because they can be set at high speeds. However, those containing manual controls are typically used in small workshops where automated systems may not be feasible, thereby allowing for more hands-on approach to work processes.
• Surface grinders work excellently with different forms of metals, including hard metal alloys. By running them through this equipment, it becomes easy to reshape, resize, and remold any form into one desired, no matter how thick, even such areas may be.

How to Choose Surface Grinder Manufacturers

• Grinder Size:

  The overall size of the surface grinders, including their control interfaces and any relevant software systems, should match employees' capabilities to ensure efficient operation without unnecessary delays or bottlenecks.

• Grinding Wheel:

  The key components are the grinding wheels. They should be varied to meet different processing needs, including size, shape, materials, and customizations for specific applications. Moreover, surface grinder manufacturers often have a brief wheel change time, which is important for ensuring production efficiency.

• Grinder Types:

  Surface grinders come in a variety models, such as ones that use magnetic tables, clamping devices, or specialized fixtures to hold workpieces. They're also distinguished by their driving methods, which include manual and hydraulic, as well as wheel feeding methods, whether horizontal or vertical. Modern surface grinders may even adopt fully automated processes, with wheels and tables providing the only manual input.

• Safety:

  Surface grinder buyers will certainly examine the manufacturers' safety features, which include emergency stop buttons, protective covers, and dust collection systems. Maintenance and repair manuals, along with other relevant documentation, should be readily available to facilitate proper equipment care and servicing when required. Manufacturers of surface grinders always emphasize safety as an important selling point.

• Quality:

  The grinders' quality and the manufacturers' reliability are assessed according to customers' reviews and experience in the industry. Additionally, surface grinder buyers are looking for surface grinder manufacturers who offer warranties and a proven track record in manufacturing surface grinders.

Q&A

Q: Which surfaces can a grinder surface?

A: Typically, grinders are complex and can handle various flat surfaces, including molded plates, sheets, discs, dies, flanged, balls, and other irregular shapes. Some high-end grinders can restore the original flat surfaces of metal castings and hydraulic manifolds.

Q: What industries use surface grinders?

A: The grinder machine comes in different models and specifications to meet various precision machining needs. The machine is used in the electrical, automotive, machinery, and die-making industries, among others.

Q: Do grinders have CNC surfaces?

A: Yes, surface grinders can be computer numerically controlled. A CNC surface grinder uses a computer to control its grinding movement and feed, ensuring high-precision grinding operations.