Coordinate grinding machine

Coordinate grinding machines for industrial production

How a coordinate grinding machine works

The CNC coordinate grinding machine, also known as a jig grinding machine, is a high-precision machine tool for fine and finish machining of complex workpieces with the tightest tolerances. It belongs to the category of grinding machines, but differs from conventional cylindrical or surface grinding machines in that it features precise control of the tool movement in space – hence the name "coordinate grinding machine."

In coordinate grinding, the machining principle is based on internal or external cylindrical grinding with rotating grinding wheels. The machine enables holes, fits, shoulders or complex contours to be machined with high dimensional and shape accuracy. The grinding spindle and workpiece move along precisely defined coordinate axes (typically X, Y, Z), which are controlled either manually or via a CNC control system.

Particularly noteworthy is the ability of the coordinate grinding machine to grind very small diameters in the micrometer range, such as those found in injection nozzles or precision molds. The feed movements are finely adjustable during coordinate grinding, and the coordinate grinding machines often work with high-speed grinding spindles that can reach speeds of over 100,000 rpm.

A major advantage is the ability to rework pre-machined or hardened workpieces with minimal material removal and very high surface quality. Coordinate grinding is often carried out in air-conditioned rooms to minimize thermal expansion.

Thanks to their high repeat accuracy, coordinate grinding machines are ideal for single parts, prototypes, and series production in precision manufacturing.

Design of a coordinate grinding machine

A coordinate grinding machine consists of several precisely coordinated components. The machine bed forms the stable foundation and is often made of gray cast iron to dampen vibrations. The axis systems (X, Y, Z) are equipped with high-precision ball screws and linear guides. The grinding spindle, usually air-bearing, enables extremely high speeds. A CNC control or manual operating unit ensures precise coordinate control. The workpiece table can often be rotated or swiveled. The system is supplemented by a coolant system, measuring systems and, if necessary, an extraction device for grinding dust. The combination of these components guarantees maximum precision and repeat accuracy.

The following search terms are frequently used for coordinate grinding machines: Grinding machine Metal Industry

Other types of grinding machines

At maschinenauswahl.de, we distinguish between the following types of grinding machines:

Manufacturing with the coordinate grinding machine

In the coordinate grinding process, a workpiece is machined with high precision by a rotating grinding wheel along precisely controlled coordinate axes. The machine moves either the tool or the workpiece – or both – in the X, Y, and Z directions, usually CNC-controlled. Minimal amounts of material are removed to produce fine bores, fits, or complex internal contours with maximum dimensional accuracy. Coordinate grinding is particularly suitable for hardened materials where conventional machining is no longer possible. An integrated cooling system ensures temperature stability and prevents thermal deformation during CNC coordinate grinding.

Coordinate grinding

Carbide profile grinding

Carbide profile grinding is a high-precision grinding process for machining carbides, which are difficult to machine using conventional methods due to their hardness. A specially shaped grinding wheel is used to precisely machine complex contours, profiles or functional surfaces in the workpiece. The grinding wheel is usually made of CBN or diamond in order to efficiently machine the extremely hard material. CNC control allows very tight tolerances and high repeat accuracy to be achieved. The process is often used in tool and mold making, for example for punches, dies, or cutting inserts, where maximum service life is required.

Coordinate grinding and carbide profile grinding differ primarily in their area of application and objectives. Coordinate grinding focuses on the precise machining of bores and contours based on exact position control – ideal for intricate internal geometries. It is often used for small workpieces with tight tolerances. Carbide profile grinding, on the other hand, focuses on the shape-bound machining of hard materials such as carbide. The aim is to apply complex external profiles and contours to highly wear-resistant components. While coordinate grinding usually uses smaller grinding pins, profile grinding uses shape-bound diamond or CBN wheels. Both processes require the highest precision and high-quality machine technology.

Application in industrial metalworking

Coordinate grinding machines are indispensable in many industries where maximum precision is required. They are particularly common in tool and mold making, fixture construction, the aerospace industry, medical technology, mechanical engineering, the automotive industry, precision engineering, and microsystem technology. The watchmaking and optical industries also use these machines because of their high precision requirements.

Typical workpieces that are manufactured or machined with coordinate grinding machines are:

Injection nozzles
Precision bores in mold inserts
Guide bushings
Punching and forming tools
Clamping devices
Injection molds
Microcomponents for medical devices
Turbine blades
Gears with internal contours
Measuring fixtures
Bearing housings with fitting bores

Thanks to their flexibility and accuracy, coordinate grinding machines are capable of economically producing complex contours and the tightest tolerances in hardened materials.

Tools for a coordinate grinding machine

Specially selected grinding tools designed for maximum precision and surface quality are used in coordinate grinding machines. The most common tools include:

CBN grinding wheels (cubic boron nitride)
Diamond grinding wheels
Ceramic-bonded grinding wheels
Resin-bonded grinding bodies
Pencil-shaped grinding bodies
Grinding pins with small diameters
Bore machining tools
Internal cylindrical grinding wheels
Profile grinding wheels
Dressing tools for shaping grinding wheels

These tools enable the machining of extremely hard materials with extreme dimensional accuracy.

Accessories and operating materials for a coordinate grinding machine

Special accessories are required for operating a coordinate grinding machine. These include high-precision clamping devices such as magnetic clamping plates or zero-point clamping systems, coolants and lubricants for temperature control and chip removal, as well as extraction systems for dust removal. Measuring systems for in-process control and optical measuring microscopes support quality assurance. In addition, dressing devices for the grinding wheels are essential. In addition to grinding tools, operating materials also include lubricants for the guides, cleaning agents, and, if necessary, air filters for the air-conditioned environment.

Leading manufacturers of coordinate grinding machines

In our manufacturers directory, you will find machine tool manufacturers who produce coordinate grinding machines for metalworking.

The following terms are frequently searched for: Hardinge coordinate grinding machine, Hardinge Hauser, Hauser coordinate grinding machine, Kehren coordinate grinding machine, Kellenberger coordinate grinding machine, Mikromat coordinate grinding machine, Moore coordinate grinding machine, Rüders coordinate grinding machine, grinding machine manufacturer Germany, CNC grinding machine manufacturer

Selecting the right coordinate grinding machine

If you want to buy a coordinate grinding machine, there are several important features and specifications to consider.

First and foremost are positioning accuracy and repeatability, ideally in the micrometer range.
Equally important is the rigidity and vibration damping of the machine bed, especially when machining hard materials.
The speed of the grinding spindle, often up to 120,000 rpm, determines the machining capabilities for fine contours.
Another focus is on the control system: it should offer intuitive operation, flexible programming and, optionally, a 3D simulation function.
The traverse of the X, Y, and Z axes as well as any B or C axes for swivel and rotary movements should also be checked.
In addition, attention should be paid to the availability of accessories such as measuring technology, dressing systems, and automation solutions.
Finally, service, ease of maintenance, and the quality of the grinding tools also play a major role in the decision.

Search maschinenauswahl.de now for the coordinate grinding machine that suits your production requirements.

Notes

This page answers the following questions, among others:

What is a coordinate grinding machine?
What types of grinding machines are there?
What is the definition of coordinate grinding, or what is the explanation for coordinate grinding?

All machines from the category Coordinate grinding machine