Yet turnkey automated centerless technology is producing higher-precision parts faster and with less operator input. High-precision spindles, granite and composite bases, linear guideways, and automatic wheel balancing systems are reducing vibration and improving the grinding process—key features when part tolerances are within millionths of an inch.  Vice President of Engineering, Robert Gleason adds that Glebar often recommends double-gantry systems, which position parts in the grinder at the same time they position parts in the gages. “For example, we recently developed a turnkey package to grind a thin-wall tool steel cup. The workpiece is measured prior to grinding, ground, re-measured and inspected after grinding. That automation worked perfectly; the challenge was the grinding wheel. The tool steel cup was very springy, so without the right grinding wheel, we would have deformed the material. We found a wheel to cut the product cleanly and provide the required surface finish. As a result, our customer is making millions of parts per year at a rate of two parts per second.”

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