Grinding Wheel Dressing Method

Grinding wheel dressing is the process of reshaping or re-sharpening the cutting edges of a grinding wheel. This process is important to maintain the accuracy, consistency, and longevity of the grinding wheel. There are several methods for dressing a grinding wheel, including manual dressing and automated dressing.

1. Manual Dressing

Manual dressing is a simple and cost-effective method for dressing a grinding wheel. This method involves using a hand-held tool, such as a dressing stick or diamond roller, to reshape the cutting edges of the grinding wheel. This method is suitable for small-scale grinding operations and is commonly used to dress straight and simple grinding wheels.

2. Star Wheel Dressing

Star wheel dressing is an automated method for dressing a grinding wheel. This method uses a rotating star-shaped tool that is positioned in contact with the grinding wheel. As the star wheel rotates, it reshapes the cutting edges of the grinding wheel, creating a new and sharp grinding surface. Star wheel dressing is typically used for high-volume grinding operations and is especially suitable for dressing complex grinding wheels, such as those used for profile grinding.

3. Roll Dressers

Roll dressers are another type of automated grinding wheel dressing tool. This method uses a rotating roll that is covered with abrasive particles. The roll is positioned in contact with the grinding wheel, and as it rotates, it removes material from the cutting edges of the grinding wheel, reshaping the grinding surface. Roll dressers are commonly used for high-volume grinding operations and are suitable for dressing a wide range of grinding wheels.

4. Continuous Dressing

Continuous dressing is a method for continuously reshaping the cutting edges of a grinding wheel during the grinding process. This method uses a rotating diamond roll or abrasive brush that is positioned in contact with the grinding wheel. As the grinding wheel rotates, the diamond roll or abrasive brush removes material from the cutting edges of the wheel, maintaining a sharp and consistent grinding surface. Continuous dressing is typically used in high-volume grinding operations and is especially suitable for dressing complex grinding wheels.

5. Truing and Dressing

Truing and dressing is a combination of the above methods that involves both reshaping the cutting edges of the grinding wheel and ensuring that the grinding wheel is running true and concentric. This process typically involves using a combination of manual and automated methods, such as using a dressing stick to reshape the cutting edges of the grinding wheel and using a star wheel or roll dresser to ensure the wheel is running true and concentric.