The NexGen of Abrasives: Exploring Innovative Grinding Solutions

Manufacturing industries across the world are embracing new technologies and solutions to improve productivity while reducing costs. In this changing landscape, exploring innovative grinding solutions has become more essential than ever.

Grinding services and abrasives find applications in a wide range of industries—such as aerospace, automotive, or electronics which are critical for creating high-quality parts. 

Let’s take a closer look at how some of the latest innovations in the field enhance operations.

New Research in Superabrasives

Superabrasives refer to a class of tools used for precision grinding.

They are made of some of the world’s hardest materials including diamond, or cubic boron nitride (CBN), the second hardest cutting tool material.

As the abrasives market witnesses tremendous growth over the next decade, superabrasives are expected to be the fastest-growing segment.

Among other areas, research into superabrasives is expected to focus on “hard to grind” materials, making processes faster and more efficient. Some of the advantages offered by superabrasives include better material removal rates, lower costs, and higher speeds.

A few of the breakthroughs anticipated in superabrasives have already arrived. The company 3M, for instance, has developed a 3D-printed superabrasive wheel that offers unprecedented flexibility and customization.

This is in addition to other cutting-edge 3M precision products, such as the Cubitron II Fibre Disc 982C, a ceramic grinding disc that offers up to twice the cutting speed of other fiber discs. Meanwhile, the Cubitron II Grinding Wheel is faster and lasts much longer than older wheels.

Smart Grinding Machines

Industry 4.0 has had an impact on almost every sector, and fabrication is no exception. 

While Computer Numerical Control (CNC) grinding machines have been around since the 1960s, they are constantly evolving with newer technologies that improve productivity and optimize processes.

The latest trends in automation and artificial intelligence are slowly making their way into CNC grinding machines, enabling professionals to collect vast amounts of data from various sensors and make real-time decisions.

Smart grinding machines ensure consistent accuracy and aid in diagnostics, eliminating the need for time-consuming inspections. The increased automation of these processes also helps with the rising shortage of skilled professionals. 

Advanced Grinding Solutions

As industries continue to grow and companies find ways to remain competitive, several grinding techniques are being employed to improve the efficiency and quality of output.

These solutions are especially relevant in precision grinding processes.

Some non-conventional techniques that are increasingly being adopted include electrochemical grinding. The process combines electrical and chemical energy to remove material while offering smoother surfaces. 

Innovations in techniques, like high-efficiency deep grinding and peel grinding, are also being explored to improve the quality of finished products. 

New abrasive tools are also maximizing the efficiency of processes, with long-lasting discs that support sustainability.

Norton’s Merit High Performance Unmounted Flap Wheel, for example, is just one example of how manufacturers are creating abrasive tools that last longer and offer faster cut rates than conventional products. 

Meanwhile, as the demand for miniaturized precision grinding grows in the electronics and biomedical devices sectors, we can also expect to see further breakthroughs in nano-grinding and micro-grinding techniques. 

Forge Forward With nexAir’s KnowHow 

As industries explore innovative abrasive and grinding solutions, nexAir is proud to be at the forefront. For over 80 years, nexAir has been one of the leading suppliers of welding equipment and supplies across the Southeast.

Not only do we provide high-quality abrasives so that industries can Forge Forward in their welding processes, but we’re also committed to sharing our KnowHow so customers can stay ahead of the curve. 

Explore our range of abrasive tools for a glimpse of what we offer.