This is a computer numerically controlled (CNC) grinding machine that is utilized to finish grind flat workpieces to a final configuration, automatically. The workpiece is typically mounted to the horizontal worktable and held down by either a magnetic chucking device or a workpiece specific clamping fixture. The worktable can be programmed to move both laterally and in a cross feed direction either front to back or vice versa. The wheel spindle is also mounted horizontally and its downfeed can be programmed as well. On this type of machine, all three motions; lateral and crossfeed table movements and wheel downfeed movement can be programmed to move either simultaneously or in sequence to finish grind a workpiece to the required configuration.

As with most types of CNC grinding machines, the wheel dressing sub- routine can also be programmed to automatically dress (recondition) the grinding wheel and readjust its location to compensate for wheel wear and wheel dressing amounts.

The entire grinding and dressing program can be saved on the machine's storage system or offloaded onto a disk for permanent storage and for future use. This machine is usually best suited for small lot sizes and production lot sizes of repeat grinding jobs.