Grinding is a process in which small abrasive particles imbedded in a grinding wheel, belt, cylinder, or stone accomplish material removal. Grinding is ordinarily used only for removing small amounts of material at a time. Grinding permits very accurate tolerances of 0.001" or less, and allows for very smooth surface finishes.

Surface Grinding is used to produce high-quality flat surfaces on workpieces. Peripheral surface grinders with horizontal spindles use the periphery of the grinding wheel to impart a flat surface to the workpiece. Vertical-spindle grinders use the face of cup, cylinder, disc, or segmental wheels to produce a flat surface.