Grinding wheel speed calculator
Check a wheel’s surface speed at your spindle speed, or the highest RPM allowed for the speed marked on the wheel.
Safety: never run a wheel faster than the maximum speed or RPM marked on it or its blotter. Check the spindle speed, ring-test vitrified wheels before fitting, use the correct mounting plates and blotters, set the tool rest within about 3 mm of the wheel, keep the guard on and stand to one side for the first minute. In the UK, wheel mounting should be done by a trained person (see HSE guidance on abrasive wheels; wheels are made to BS EN 12413).
How it works, guides and notes
How it works
Surface speed v = π × D × n ÷ 60,000 gives metres per second from the diameter in mm and the speed in rev/min. Reversing it gives the highest safe RPM for a wheel’s marked speed. A smaller, worn wheel runs slower at the same RPM, so it may cut less well, but never speed a machine up to compensate unless the wheel and machine are both rated for it.
Sources: HSE, Safety in the use of abrasive wheels (HSG17); BS EN 12413. Values are for reference only.
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