Grinding Stones are abrasive tools made from bonded grains that remove material, sharpen edges or finish surfaces by abrasion. They come in various shapes and compositions to suit different bench, pedestal or handheld grinding applications.
Key Characteristics:
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Abrasive Material: Typically aluminium oxide (for steel), silicon carbide (for non-ferrous metals and stone) or diamond (for hardest materials).
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Bond Types:
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Vitrified: Porous, rigid bond for high-precision sharpening and stock removal.
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Resin: More flexible bonds that resist glazing and are used for blending or light grinding.
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Rubber/Silicone: Mounted on mandrels for rotary tools, offering some compliance.
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Grit Size: Range from very coarse (e.g. 24–36 grit) for rapid material removal to fine (e.g. 100–220 grit) for honing and polishing.
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Shapes & Mounting:
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Wheels: Flat, cup or depressed-centre wheels mounted on bench or pedestal grinders.
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Sticks & Points: Cylindrical or conical stones for precision work in tool-and-cutter grinders or drill-press attachments.
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Mounted Stones: Small stones bonded to a shank or mandrel for use in die grinders and multi-tools.
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Hardness & Porosity: Varying hardness grades control how soon the stone wears away, while porosity affects coolant flow and chip clearance.
Common Uses:
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Sharpening Cutting Tools: Restoring edges on chisels, plane blades, drill bits and lathe tools on bench or tool-and-cutter grinders.
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Deburring & Profiling: Removing burrs from machined parts and forming contours on castings or welds.
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Surface Preparation: Smoothing cast surfaces or blending weld seams before finishing.
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Toolroom Work: Precision grinding of small parts, flats and angles to tight tolerances.
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On-Tool Grinding: Mounted stones in die grinders for in-situ touch-ups, porting engine heads or cleaning mould cavities.
