Outside Diameter Grinding: Custom Metal Manufacturing

Outside diameter grinding can be an important part of manufacturing metal products. With today's technological advances, outside diameter grinding can be used to create custom metal products to suit just about any type of manufacturer.

If you're interested in using outside-diameter grinding to make products for your business, here are a few steps to take:

Setting Up Shop 

An outside diameter grinding machine has a large physical footprint, requiring ample space to situate. When you set up your grinding machine and workspace, be sure to allow access from all sides, with room for a workbench and vise.

• Location: an outside-diameter grinding machine should always be situated in an open space. You will need to have access to a power outlet (check with the manufacturer for the power requirements). It also helps to house outside diameter grinding machines at waist height. An industrial vise can also help you secure the items you grind.
• Anchor Up: an outside diameter grinding machine generates ample torque. Depending on the size and shape of the workpiece, it may need to be secured with a vise. After securing the piece you're working on, securely anchored the outside diameter grinding machine to the workbench.

Selecting

Outside-diameter grinding machines can be outfitted with a variety of grinding wheels. When selecting a grinding wheel, you will also need to ensure that the wheel you select is just right.  

• Selecting: the appropriate grinding wheel for the material of the workpiece is one that is compatible with the material being worked on. Using the wrong type of wheel can result in poor surface finish and even damage to the workpiece. The type of grinding wheel to use can be determined by consulting the manufacturer's recommendations or by using a wheel selection chart.

Setting and Starting Your Grind

Now that you have your outside diameter grinding wheel and your product ready to work on, you need to adjust your machine to begin the grinding process.

• Setting: this includes selecting the appropriate feed rate, the speed at which the workpiece is moved past the grinding wheel, and the appropriate depth of cut, or the amount of material to be removed. These parameters will depend on the material of the workpiece, the desired finish, and the capabilities of the grinding machine.
• Let's Grind: with the grinding machine properly set up and the grinding parameters determined, it is time to begin the grinding process. The workpiece should be slowly fed into the grinding wheel, taking care to maintain a consistent feed rate and depth of cut. As the grinding process progresses, the operator should frequently check the workpiece for any abnormalities and make any necessary adjustments.