May 12, 2020 - Innovative precision grinding machine solution provider Glebar Company, Ramsey, New Jersey, recently delivered a solution to thrufeed grind steel tubes while also decreasing downtime and maintaining a high-quality part.

Manufacturers use grinding machines with narrow work wheels requiring several passes to reduce the diameter and achieve acceptable surface finish. This process creates longer cycle times and can deform thin walled tubing causing burns. These machines are also difficult to adjust for setup and changeovers requiring highly skilled technicians.

Glebar was challenged to deliver a process with a small footprint that can grind steel tubes while keeping a high-quality part. The process also had to decrease downtime related to maintenance, troubleshooting, and complicated changeovers.

To solve these challenges, Glebar delivered its TF-9DHD Infeed/Thrufeed Centerless Grinder which features an 8-5/8" work wheel combined with a 15HP main spindle motor. This combination removes more material per pass than larger machines, improving cycle times and providing a better surface finish. It has the capability to grind both hard and soft materials, specializing in parts from 1” diameter down to 0.002” diameter. The available in-line gauge provides real-time feedback of ground parts ensuring tube roundness.

In a recent test, Glebar ground 12’ stainless steel tubes with a 0.191” diameter. The TF-9DHD removed 0.006”, while maintaining 0.0001” roundness, 0.0004” straightness, and an 8 Ra finish with a cycle time of 2.35 minutes per tube.

The TF-9DHD’s 8-5/8" work wheel is the widest on the market in its class. Combined with a gradual regulating wheel angle it reduces the pressure on the tubing increasing accuracy and maintaining roundness.

The operator-friendly touchscreen controls are configured specifically for the customer by Glebar’s in-house programmers. Part of the HMI includes remote connectivity allowing Glebar’s technicians to quickly troubleshoot any issues reducing machine downtime.