A small centerless grinder is a precision grinding machine designed for high-precision cylindrical grinding of small parts without the need for centers or chucks. Instead of holding the workpiece between centers, centerless grinding uses a regulating wheel, a grinding wheel, and a work rest blade to support and rotate the workpiece.
Key Features of a Small Centerless Grinder:
1. Compact Size – Designed for small-diameter workpieces (typically under 1″ or 25mm).
2. High Precision – Achieves tight tolerances (±0.0001″ or better) for roundness and surface finish.
3. Through-Feed or In-Feed Grinding:
– Through-feed: Used for long, straight parts (e.g., pins, shafts).
– In-feed: Used for parts with multiple diameters or shoulders.
4. Automation-Ready – Some models support automation for high-volume production.
5. Variable Speed Control – Adjustable grinding and regulating wheel speeds.
Common Applications:
– Medical components (hypodermic needles, bone screws)
– Automotive parts (fuel injectors, valve stems)
– Aerospace components (small shafts, bushings)
– Electronics (connector pins, micro-precision rods)
Popular Small Centerless Grinder Models:
– Royal Master TG12x4 – Compact through-feed grinder.
– Cincinnati Milacron 220-8 – Classic small centerless grinder.
– Koyo KCL-100 – High-precision in-feed grinder.
– Monza 410 – Italian-made micro-grinding machine.
Advantages Over Conventional Grinding:
✔ No need for centering fixtures
✔ Faster cycle times
✔ Better concentricity & surface finish
✔ Ideal for mass production
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