What is G-Ratio? Grinding Operations Explained

What is G-ratio, and what does it mean for your grinding operations?

The G-ratio is the formula to determine the ability of a grinding wheel to remove stock from a workpiece. A wheel that can grind efficiently on an easy to grind material with minimal wheel wear will have a higher G-ratio. By definition, the G-ratio is the total volume of material removed from the workpiece divided by the total amount of wheel wear.

The formula for G-ratio is as follows:

G = Vw/Vs

Vw = volume of material removed from the workpiece.

Vs = Volume of total wheel wear.

Both figures are measured in cubic inches. When the grinding wheel removes a large amount of material from the workpiece with little wheel wear, the G-ratio will be high. If the wheel is soft and does not remove a lot of material but the wheel wear is high, the wheel will have a G-ratio that is low. This is common with difficult-to-grind (DTG materials). For example, when the abrasive wheel wears too slowly and becomes glazed, machining forces are increased. This leads to poor shape holding, vibrations, and low-quality surface texture.

Eagle’s engineers bring to you years of experience and understand the intricacies involved in formulating the right wheel for the job. If you are looking for assistance with a grinding wheel that isn’t performing, or you are needing more support than you are currently receiving, reach out to us! No pressure– just answers.