Why Grit Size Matters in Glass Grinding

Grinding wheel grit size is one of the most important parameters affecting glass edge quality. In glass processing, edge appearance and strength are directly influenced by how much material is removed and how smooth the grinding process is. Choosing the wrong grit size often results in edge chipping, poor finish, or even surface cracks.

For glass manufacturers, understanding grit size is not just a technical detail—it determines whether the final product meets customer standards.

What Grit Size Means

Grit size refers to the abrasive particle size embedded in the grinding wheel. Generally:

• Smaller grit number = larger abrasive particles

• Larger grit number = smaller abrasive particles

Larger particles remove more material quickly but leave deeper scratches. Smaller particles create smoother surfaces but remove material slower.

Coarse Grit (Low Grit Number): Fast but Rough

Typical Applications

Coarse grit wheels are often used in rough grinding and heavy material removal, especially for thick or tempered glass.

Advantages

• High material removal rate

• Shorter processing time

• Suitable for heavy-duty operations

Disadvantages

• Rougher edge finish

• Higher risk of micro-cracks

• Requires additional polishing steps

In short, coarse grit is efficient but not ideal for final edge quality.

Medium Grit: Balanced Performance

Typical Applications

Medium grit wheels are commonly used for general glass grinding, where both efficiency and edge quality matter.

Advantages

• Balanced material removal

• Acceptable edge finish

• Lower risk of chipping than coarse grit

Disadvantages

• May still require polishing for premium finishes

Medium grit is often the default choice for many glass factories because it offers stable results under various conditions.

Fine Grit (High Grit Number): Smooth but Slower

Typical Applications

Fine grit wheels are used in fine grinding and polishing, especially for decorative glass, furniture glass, and high-end applications.

Advantages

• Smooth edge finish

• Lower surface scratches

• Reduced edge stress

Disadvantages

• Slower material removal

• Higher production time

• Higher tool cost per unit

Fine grit is ideal when quality is more important than speed.

How to Choose the Right Grit Size

The selection depends on:

• Glass thickness

• Desired edge finish

• Production volume

• Machine type and speed

For example:

• Thick glass often starts with coarse grit for rough grinding, then transitions to fine grit for finishing.

• Thin glass usually requires fine grit to avoid chipping and cracking.

The Role of Manufacturer Expertise

A high-quality grinding wheel manufacturer like Jiangxi Jinlong New Materials Co., Ltd. offers both diamond and resin grinding wheel series with precise grit control. This ensures consistent performance across batches, which is essential for large glass factories.

Choosing the right grit size is not just about performance; it’s about long-term stability and cost efficiency.