These machines are designed to utilize either a computer numerical control (CNC) or a dedicated production style, microprocessor control. These machines are designed to finish grind two sides of a flat component at the same time to an overall width dimension using two separate grinding wheels.

Depending on the workpiece configuration, the workpiece can either be ground utilizing two horizontally opposed grinding wheels or two vertically opposed grinding wheels.

These machines are usually set-up to run large lot sizes of one workpiece type or a family of similar workpieces. However, utilizing the flexibility built into a CNC controlled machine, a machine can be configured to grind various, dissimilar parts in smaller lot sizes.

Automatic loading and unloading systems are often applied to double disc grinding machines with workpiece sorting and stacking devices allowing for an operator-free production station and high levels of output.