precisionground

Precision ground is a manufacturing term describing surfaces or components that have been produced by precision grinding to achieve tight dimensional tolerances and fine surface finishes. It is typically performed after rough machining to bring parts into final geometry before assembly or use. Precision grinding is used across sectors where repeatable accuracy and smooth finishes are critical.

Process and equipment: Uses abrasive wheels (diamond or cubic boron nitride), controlled feeds, and coolant to manage heat. Techniques include surface grinding for flat faces, cylindrical and profile grinding for round or complex shapes, and jig or form grinding for precise forms. CNC grinding systems enable high repeatability and automated inspection alignment with CAM data.

Tolerances and surface finish: Typical tolerances range from a few micrometers for small parts to tens of micrometers on larger components. Surface roughness targets commonly fall in the Ra 0.1–1.6 μm range depending on function. Measurement relies on CMM, profilometers, roundness and cylindricity checks, and scratch/delamination checks.

Applications: Precision-ground components appear in aerospace hardware, medical implants, automotive systems, tooling, bearings and races, gears, optical flats, and high-precision guideways. The goal is reliable mating, reduced wear, and consistent performance.

Quality and standards: The process emphasizes process control, documentation, and metrology. Parts are gauged with CMMs or fixed gauges; lot traceability and statistical process control are common. Standards may reference ISO 9001 quality management and industry-specific specifications for tolerances and surface finishes.