A cylindrical grinder finishes round parts by turning them between centres (or in a chuck) against a fast-spinning abrasive wheel. It brings shafts, pins and bores to very close diameters and roundness with a fine finish, often after heat treatment.
Quick facts
- Work
- Outside diameters (OD), and bores on universal machines (ID)
- Typical diameter tolerance
- About ±0.002–0.005 mm (±0.0001–0.0002 inch)
- Roundness
- Within a few microns
- Surface finish
- About Ra 0.1–0.4 µm
- Size
- Given as max grinding diameter × length between centres
- Types
- Plain, universal, CNC, angle-head
Types
| Type | What it does |
|---|---|
| Plain cylindrical | Outside diameters and shoulders, between centres |
| Universal | OD, tapers and, with an internal attachment, bores |
| CNC cylindrical | Several diameters and shoulders automatically, for batches |
| Angle-head | Diameter and shoulder face together, common for shafts |
Typical parts
- Shafts, spindles and axles at bearing seats
- Pins, rollers and plungers
- Hardened parts after heat treatment
- Bores of bushes and gears (on universal or internal grinders)
Limits
- Slow compared with turning; only the final few tenths of a millimetre are ground
- Long thin shafts need steady rests
- Part size is limited by swing and length between centres
Need work done on a Cylindrical grinder?
Post your requirement free. Workshops that take your kind of work see it and get in touch. You only talk to the ones that fit.
Get startedRelated
Related job work
Questions
- What is the difference between cylindrical and centreless grinding?
- A cylindrical grinder holds the part between centres or in a chuck, so it can grind shoulders and several diameters accurately. A centreless grinder supports the part on a blade between two wheels and is faster for large batches of plain round parts.
- How much is left on a part for cylindrical grinding?
- Usually about 0.2–0.4 mm (0.0079–0.0157 inch) on diameter after turning, more if the part distorts in heat treatment.
The figures on this page are typical values for guidance, written by Diemeco from standard engineering practice. They are not a specification: confirm grades and properties with the relevant standard or the supplier's mill test certificate, and tolerances with your workshop. Last checked 9 October 2026.