Understanding the Need for Exceptional Finishes

In manufacturing, getting the dimensions right is only part of the equation. The finish of a part can be just as critical, especially for mating surfaces, rotating shafts, or precision bores. In North Carolina’s competitive manufacturing landscape, companies know that selecting the right grinding process is the key to delivering reliable, high-quality components.

At Wilson Machine & Tool, we specialize in both OD/ID grinding and surface grinding—and we help our customers choose the right approach for every application.

What Sets OD/ID Grinding Apart?

OD (Outside Diameter) and ID (Inside Diameter) grinding target cylindrical parts. Using precision grinding wheels, machinists can achieve extremely tight tolerances on round surfaces—often in the range of ±0.0002″ or better.

This process is essential for parts like:

• Shafts that must run true and smooth in bearings.
• Hydraulic cylinder bores that need consistent internal dimensions.
• Sleeves and bushings requiring perfect fit.

At Wilson Machine & Tool, our OD/ID grinders maintain precise concentricity and surface finish, ensuring components perform flawlessly even in demanding mechanical systems.

When Surface Grinding Shines

Surface grinding, in contrast, is about achieving flatness and parallelism on planar surfaces. The part is fixed to a magnetic chuck or table, and an abrasive wheel removes small amounts of material evenly across its face.

Applications include:

• Mold bases and die plates requiring perfect mating surfaces.
• Precision shims and spacers.
• Tooling components that must maintain exact height and squareness.

Surface grinding delivers a consistent, smooth finish that enhances wear resistance, improves assembly fit, and supports critical sealing surfaces.

Why This Choice Matters in NC Manufacturing

In Raleigh, Sanford, Charlotte, and across NC, manufacturing spans industries as varied as aerospace, automotive, energy, and medical devices. Each industry has its own standards and requirements.

Choosing the right grinding approach isn’t just about aesthetics. It impacts functional performance, part lifespan, and customer satisfaction.

For example:

• A hydraulic shaft with poor OD finish can cause premature seal wear.
• A mold plate that isn’t truly flat can lead to flashing or part defects.

At Wilson Machine & Tool, our expertise ensures customers get the grinding process that truly fits their needs—not a one-size-fits-all approach.

Integrated Precision Machining and Grinding

What sets us apart is that grinding isn’t something we outsource or consider an afterthought. It’s integrated into our precision machining workflow.

Many of our customers rely on us for complete parts, moving from CNC milling or turning directly to grinding in-house. This streamlines lead times, reduces handling, and ensures tighter quality control.

Our ISO 9001:2015-certified processes include in-process inspections, first-piece approvals, and final inspections, including Aberlink CMM measurements for complex geometries.

Serving the Southeast with Confidence

While our facility is in Sanford, NC, we’re proud to serve customers across North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, and Georgia. Our grinding capabilities support industries with exacting standards and tight timelines, offering the local responsiveness and communication that overseas vendors simply can’t match.

Let’s Get Your Project Started

If you need precision OD/ID grinding, surface grinding, or a complete CNC-to-grinding solution:

• Begin a Quote to see how we can help.
• Contact us to discuss your specific requirements.

At Wilson Machine & Tool, precision is more than a promise—it’s our daily practice.