In the centerless grinding process, the workpiece is on a work-rest blade with the regulating wheel (a second wheel) support. When the wheel rotates, the workpiece pushes the work-rest edge down, and against the regulating wheel.
The regulating wheel rotates in the same direction as the grinding wheel to control the longitudinal feed of the workpiece, which is at a slight angle. The degree of the angle and the speed of the wheel influence the workpiece feed rate in this process. Hence, center holes are not required for operations or to secure the workpiece in place for centerless grinding.

Cylindrical grinding is designed for machining the external surfaces of round components such as shafts, rollers, and bearings. It offers excellent dimensional accuracy and is widely used in automotive and commercial aerospace industries. CNC cylindrical grinders are preferred when working with parts that require concentricity and uniform diameter along the length.

Internal grinding, on the other hand, is used for finishing the inner diameters of components like bushings, gears, and bearing races. It enables high precision in confined spaces where external tools cannot reach. This type is essential for applications requiring tight internal tolerances and superior surface finishes.

Primarily, these grinders sharpen machining tool cutters such as milling cutters, taps, and reamers. Various special tool attachments are available to sharpen these cutting tools. The general-purpose cutter grinder is one of the most versatile and preferred grinders.