The mathematical model of the grinding temperature is established. The grinding temperature and the cooling rate are measured in the grind-hardening process of 40Cr steel under different conditions. Moreover, the grind-hardening effects are investigated. Experimental results show that the calculated temperatures are comparatively close to the measured ones, and the required temperature and cooling rate can be achieved. Furthermore, the microstructure of the hardened zone is similar to that obtained through the high-frequency induction technique. The average hardness of the entirely hardened zone is HV670 and the thickness of the hardened layer is adjacent to 1.3 mm. It indicates that the hardening mechanism induced by the grinding heat and high-frequency heating is identical. Finally, the fine needlelike martensite is obtained.
