Tech Talk
What are "Electroplated Wheels"?
Electroplated wheels consist of a single layer of diamond or CBN particles which have been bonded to the wheel surface in a nickel-electroplating bath. Nickel is the most commonly used metal because it has good plating qualities and provides a bond of excellent strength. This bonding process makes it relatively easy to produce wheels of any form or contour, depending on the shape and size of the steel core. Electroplated wheels are very free-cutting, making high stock removal rates possible. Electroplated wheels are especially valuable for grinding deep forms such as gear teeth, splines and deep grooves. Key characteristics of electroplated wheels are: lowest cost tool form; complex forms easily manufactured; good gorm holding capability; maximum abrasive particle exposure; highest stock removal capability; limited finish capabilites and shorter wheel life.