Thread Grinding
Thread grinding is a process of removing metal from a workpiece by passing a threaded grinding wheel over its surface. It is a component manufacturing process used for achieving very precise dimensions and shapes in difficult to machine materials like hard steels. This process is used for producing components with triangular, square and other non-circular cross-sectional shapes. The process is used for machining requirements that are difficult to meet with the conventional cutting processes available.
Thread grinding operations are carried out on a specialized type of grinding machine called a thread grinder. It is usually a cylindrical or columnar machine that uses abrasive grinding wheels to grind the thread surface. This type of machine is usually operated by a process control system which will deliver the feed rate and other parameters necessary to produce a precise finished component.
The process involves the use of a threaded grinding wheel which is usually made of synthetic diamond or CBN, a wheel cradle and a wheel head. The wheel is mounted on the wheel cradle, which provides the axis of rotation for the wheel. The wheel head is designed to provide a support to the wheel and is also used to make adjustments to the grinding pressure.
The wheel is used to grind the entire thread profile and the wheel is also guided by a grinding wheel dresser. This dresser is specially designed to provide the exact shape and size of the wheel that is required by the workpiece. It is used to ensure a consistent and accurate cutting action.
The grinding wheel is then moved over the workpiece in a circular motion. As the wheel passes over the workpiece the wheel will cut a series of overlapping grooves and ridges that form the thread. This process is highly precise and the grinding wheel is always moved in a consistent and even fashion over the work piece.
One of the advantages of thread grinding is the ability of the wheel to remove material without leaving burrs or sharp edges on the part. This makes the finished product much more accurate. It also allows the wheel to cut in tighter tolerances then is possible with other machining processes.
Thread grinding is used to produce components with very high dimensional accuracy, surface finish and tolerance requirements. In addition, it can be used to achieve very specific geometric shapes in difficult to machine materials such as hard steels, stainless steel, aluminum and exotic alloys.
Thread grinding is a process that is used in industries such as aerospace, automotive, medical, electronic and defense. The process is used to produce components for engines, valves and pumps, aircraft components, surgical tools and medical instruments, automotive bearings and shafts, and fasteners and fittings. The process is also used to produce threaded dies for nuts, bolts and screws.
