How We Hold Tolerances

Most grinding is done by abrasive wheels that rotate at high speed, or by power-driven cloth or paper belts coated with an abrasive. In precision grinding the same methods are used, but with extreme precision in the grinding process. Precision grinding means very close tolerances. 0.00002" can be achieved, but only if the proper machinery is used. What is the correct or proper machinery? The correct machinery needed for precision grinding must be constructed very accurately, with very heavy rigid frames to assure permanency of alignment. Two other important factors in achieving precise tolerances are to accurately balance rotating parts to avoid vibration and to mount spindles in very accurate bearings. Controls are also provided to insure that all movements of machine components used to determine critical dimensions are made with accuracy.

Blanchard Grinding

Blanchard grinding is very similar to rotary-type surface grinding, and for the most part the only difference between rotary-type surface grinding and Blanchard grinding is that Blanchard grinding is generally done on a larger scale. It is also common with Blanchard grinding for one to be able to reach more precise tolerances. Common applications for Blanchard grinding are with parts that are too large to be ground or machined by any other manner and require extremely precise tolerances.

Surface (Mattison) Grinding

Flat grinding, a.k.a. surface grinding, produces a smooth, accurate, flat surface on machine parts, tools, and dies. Flat grinding machines may have the axis of the wheel either horizontal or vertical to the surface of the work. With the horizontal type flat grinder, the workpiece is attached to a movable table and as that table is advanced across the flat grinding wheel, the part will automatically or manually be completely ground.

The vertical type flat grinder uses a cup-shaped wheel. These flat grinding machines often have a large rotating table to which the work is attached. As the table slowly rotates, the work piece is forced into the grinding wheel.

Call us to discuss your project. We would be happy to discuss your tolerance needs and exactly how we go about achieving it.