SMART CUT® Fine Grinding
(Fixed Abrasive) Plates & Double Disc Grinding Wheels

Fine Grinding Plates are commonly used for applications that require high parallelism, close dimensional control, and fine surface finishes. Typical applications include optics, ceramics, metals, semiconductor wafers, and precision components.

Selecting the right plate involves considering factors such as workpiece material, required surface finish, plate type, grit size, bond type, and plate diameter. Consult with the manufacturer or supplier for guidance.

Fine Grinding Plates are available in various types to suit specific applications and material requirements. Some common types include:

• Diamond Plates: Ideal for grinding hard and brittle materials like ceramics, silicon carbide, and diamond.
• CBN Plates: Suitable for grinding hard and tough materials like tool steels and carbides.
• Aluminum Oxide Plates: Used for general-purpose grinding on a wide range of materials, including metals, plastics, and composites.
• Silicon Carbide Plates: Effective for grinding softer materials like glass, ceramics, and composites.

Fine Grinding Plates are available in a range of grit sizes, from coarse to fine, to achieve different surface finishes. The choice of grit size depends on the desired surface finish and the material being ground.

• Coarse Grit (60-120): Used for rough grinding to remove large amounts of material and create a preliminary surface finish.
• Medium Grit (180-320): Suitable for intermediate grinding to refine the surface finish and prepare for finer polishing.
• Fine Grit (400-600): Used for precision grinding to achieve a high-quality surface finish with minimal material removal.
• Ultrafine Grit (800-1200): Ideal for optical-grade polishing, creating a mirror-like surface finish.

Fine Grinding Plates employ various bonding types to adhere the abrasive grains to the plate’s surface. Each bonding type offers distinct characteristics and is suitable for specific applications.

• Vitrified Bond: A strong and durable bond commonly used for general-purpose grinding and applications requiring high wear resistance.
• Resin Bond: A flexible bond suitable for precision grinding and applications where minimal workpiece distortion is critical.
• Metal Bond: A highly durable bond ideal for grinding hard and abrasive materials, providing exceptional wear resistance.

The optimal operating parameters for Fine Grinding Plates depend on the specific application, material being ground, and desired surface finish. However, some general guidelines include:

• Rotational Speed: Typically ranging from 50 to 1000 RPM, depending on the plate size and workpiece dimensions.
• Grinding Pressure: Typically ranging from 1 to 100 psi, depending on the material hardness and surface finish requirements.
• Coolant: Coolant is often used to prevent overheating and maintain abrasive sharpness.

Always follow proper safety precautions when using Fine Grinding Plates:

• Wear appropriate safety gear: Wear safety glasses, gloves, and respiratory protection when operating grinding machines.
• Securely mount the plate: Ensure the plate is properly mounted to the grinding machine to prevent vibration and accidents.
• Use proper grinding techniques: Follow recommended grinding techniques to avoid workpiece damage and ensure operator safety.
• Maintain the machine and plates: Regularly inspect and maintain the grinding machine and plates to ensure optimal performance and safety.

Fine Grinding Plates offer several environmental advantages over traditional grinding methods:

• Reduced Coolant Consumption: Fixed abrasive technology requires less coolant compared to loose abrasive methods, minimizing wastewater generation.
• Extended Abrasive Life: Longer-lasting abrasive bonds reduce the frequency of abrasive replacements, minimizing waste disposal.
• Energy Efficiency: Efficient grinding processes minimize energy consumption, contributing to a smaller environmental footprint.

Fine Grinding Plates are generally used for precision and fine finishing applications. For high material removal rates and aggressive grinding, other abrasive methods may be more suitable.