A Guide to CBN Wheels
CBN Wheels from Workblades & Formers are made using Cubic Boron Nitride, a superabrasive material that is second only to diamond in hardness. These wheels are typically electroplated onto steel or aluminium cores, giving them strength and stability for demanding grinding tasks. Because of their superabrasive properties, CBN wheels are widely used for grinding ferrous metals such as hardened steel, high-speed steel (HSS) and cast iron.
Unlike traditional abrasive grinding wheels, CBN wheels do not require dressing, run true and offer a much longer working life. This makes them a dependable choice for reducing downtime while maintaining consistent grinding performance. Their ability to hold form also supports applications where tight tolerances and accurate geometry matter.
CBN wheels are frequently used for sharpening tools such as woodturning tools, chisels and plane blades. They are also used in industrial grinding across aerospace, automotive and tooling industries, where hardened steels, nickel alloys and superalloys need precise and controlled grinding. For precision components such as camshafts, crankshafts and turbine blades, these wheels deliver stable results without losing shape.
Because they withstand high temperatures, CBN wheels offer thermal stability and cool grinding, helping prevent overheating or temper loss. Their durability ensures long service life, steady performance and consistent accuracy across repeated grinding operations.

