3D Printed Grinding Wheels: A Technological Breakthrough

Complex grinding requires innovative solutions. Armed with additive manufacturing technology, 3M has developed a groundbreaking new solution in precision internal diameter grinding. New 3M™ Precision Structured Vitrified CBN Grinding Wheels 1PVP are 3D printed, layer by layer, to help you reach higher dimensions of performance in cylindrical grinding.

New Precision Structured CBN Grinding Wheels.

3D printed for design freedom.

See these groundbreaking wheels in action:

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Precision Structured Wheels Overview

Dive deep into the science and technology behind these new precision structured superabrasives. See the 3D printing process, formulation options and more.
Wheel Dressing Demonstration

Watch as 3M™ Precision Structured Vitrified CBN Grinding Wheels are dressed prior to use at a leading manufacturer of precision grinding machines.

Customized for you. Printed by 3M.

For the first time, 3M is applying 3D printing technology to abrasive manufacturing. By 3D printing precision superabrasive wheels, we set a new standard for precision-structured internal diameter grinding tools, with unprecedented geometric flexibility and customizing capabilities. This inherent design freedom opens new possibilities for the most complex internal grinding applications.

The 3D Printing Process
3D printed structures are made by the addition of thousands of miniscule layers of media – in this case, cubic boron nitride. By harnessing this innovative technology, abrasive tools can be built layer by layer according to 3D modeling. This process ensures uniform distribution of grit and pores throughout the structure.

Proven to boost performance.

Boost performance in your ID grinding processes with 3M™ Precision Structured Vitrified CBN Grinding Wheels. We tested our patterned precision structured wheels against non-patterned wheels, and here’s what we found:

Application: Plunge ID grinding
Material: 100Cr6 – 60HRC +/- 2
Wheel sizes (mm): 25 x 10 x 20
Cutting fluid: Oil
Wheel speed: 45 m/s (~35000 rpm)
Workpiece speed: 0.75 m/s

Result: Compared to non-patterned wheels, our precision structured wheels achieved up to 40% higher removal rates and lower grinding forces. Contact us to learn how we can help boost your performance.

Ready for your real-world grinding challenges.

Prioritized Markets

Precision structured wheels are a breakthrough for manufacturers across the industrial landscape. They are especially effective in the powertrain and bearing markets where high-precision ID grinding is a common application.
A Breakthrough in ID Grinding

Precision structured grinding wheels are custom designed for detailed internal diameter grinding. They are proven to achieve higher removal rates compared to traditional CBN grinding wheels in ID grinding applications, lowering your cost per part.
Powered by Cubic Boron Nitride

We choose to print our precision structured grinding wheels with cubic boron nitride for its durability and geometric control. Second only to diamond in hardness, CBN is an ideal superabrasive for grinding hardened materials and superalloys.

Learn more about 3M superabrasives

Connect with a 3M Precision Grinding and Finishing expert.

Let’s talk grinding. If you’re curious about custom superabrasives solutions, we can help. Our abrasives experts can get you what you need, whether you want to learn more about new 3M™ Precision Structured Vitrified CBN Grinding Wheels or another precision grinding and finishing solution. Fill out our contact form, start a chat or call 1-866-279-1235.