The cylindrical wheel is the most common type. Its cutting surface is located at the periphery of the wheel. Wheels of this shape are often mounted on a plate.

The straight cup wheel is designed to cut on the periphery and the side face at the same time. This type of wheel is often used to grind shoulders.

The dish wheel is a tool and cutter grinding wheel. It is typically used to regrind end mills and has a specific shape to accomplish that.

The flared cup wheel is also tool and cutter grinding wheel. There are several cup shapes available depending on the needs of the machinist.

Grinding wheels can be custom dressed with a diamond tool to achieve nearly any shape desired.