Classification of Glass Edging Machines

Glass Edge Grinding Machines: Types, Features, and Purchasing Guide

The glass edge grinding machine is one of the earliest and most widely used machines in the glass deep processing industry. With the continuous development and growth of the glass deep processing industry, the variety and specifications of glass edge grinding machines have increased significantly. Today, we will delve into the types and features of edge grinding machines, as well as how to choose the right one.

1. Main Types and Features of Glass Edge Grinding Machines

To choose the right edge grinding machine, it is essential to understand the different types and their features. Currently, the following are the main types:

1.1 Single-Arm Shaped Edge Grinding Machine (Shaped Machine or Single-Arm Machine)
The primary feature of the shaped edge grinding machine is its wide range of applications and low cost. It can grind straight edges, curved edges, duckbill edges, and beveled edges. It is also suitable for processing round, oval, and irregularly shaped workpieces. By attaching a jig to the independent suction cup, the shaped machine can grind workpieces of irregular shapes. The structure of the shaped machine is simple, and its manufacturing cost is relatively low, making it more affordable. Domestic models generally cost around 20,000 RMB.

1.2 Straight Edge Grinding Machine
Straight edge grinding machines have three key features:

• They are designed for a single purpose: to grind various types of straight edges.

• They can perform continuous grinding, which makes them highly efficient.

• They can grind large flat glass sheets.
  Straight edge grinding machines come in many models and specifications. They are typically categorized into the following types based on the type of straight edges they can grind:

• Straight Edge Grinding Machine (Straight Edge Machine)
  This machine is used to grind flat edges and two corners of glass. It comes in various configurations with different numbers of grinding heads (3, 5, 8, 9, 10, 13, 14 heads, etc.). In general, the more grinding heads, the higher the precision and efficiency, but the cost also increases. Computer-controlled models (usually with 10 or more grinding heads) are even more expensive. In recent years, a two-in-one model has appeared that can grind both flat edges and 45° bottom edges, which has become quite popular. Additionally, multi-stage machines can grind one or two sets of edges at different angles, which also require computer control and are typically more expensive.

• Straight Round Edge Grinding Machine (Round Edge Machine)
  This machine is used for grinding round edges, duckbill edges, and is commonly used in furniture and glass processing. It also comes with various configurations such as 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, or 9 grinding heads.

• Straight Bevel Edge Grinding Machine (Bevel Edge Machine)
  This machine is used to grind bevels with angles between 3° and 20° on glass. Some newer models can also grind bevels up to 45°. Bevel edge machines come in various configurations with 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, or 14 grinding heads. Recently, a wave bevel grinding machine has been introduced, which can create various wave patterns on bevel edges.

1.3 Template Edge Grinding Machine (Template or Profiling Machine)
The template edge grinding machine uses a template to precisely position and grind straight edges, round edges, duckbill edges, and bevels on circular or irregularly shaped glass. The advantage of this machine is that it produces accurate shapes and consistent sizes with high production efficiency. However, it requires the creation of specialized templates, which can be costly and cumbersome to manage, especially for diverse production needs. Therefore, this type of machine is best suited for high-volume, single-type production.

Template grinding machines come in single-head, double-head, four-head, and six-head models.

1.4 Internal Circle Edge Grinding Machine (Internal Circle Machine)
This machine is simple in structure and inexpensive, but its application is more limited as it primarily processes circular edges (either perfect circles, ellipses, or irregular circles). Some domestic models feature longer arms, which allow for a larger range of motion for the grinding heads. These machines are sometimes called internal and external circular edge grinding machines when they can also process outer circular edges.

1.5 Double-Side Straight Edge Grinding Machine (Double-Side Grinding Machine)
Double-side grinding machines can grind two opposing edges of glass simultaneously, offering good accuracy and high production efficiency. They are ideal for large-scale glass edge grinding. Depending on the width of glass it can process, it can be categorized into small/medium-sized and large double-side grinding machines. Small/medium-sized models typically have 4, 6, 8, or 12 grinding heads, and can process glass up to 2 meters wide. Large models, which can process glass larger than 2 meters, may have 16, 20, or 22 grinding heads and are typically computer-controlled with higher automation, making them more expensive.

1.6 Other Edge Grinding Machines and Special-Purpose Grinding Machines
In addition to the types mentioned above, there are also simpler machines for specific applications, such as chamfering machines, small round piece grinders, and polishing machines. Additionally, some specialized grinding machines are designed for processing particular products, such as rearview mirror grinding machines or washbasin grinding machines.