Abstract: A grinding apparatus with electrolytic in-process dressing suitable for grinding a planar or spherical surface. An electrode is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the work holder such that a gap of a predetermined size is left between the electrode and the grinding surface of the grinder. A power supply is connected to apply a voltage between the electrode serving as a cathode and the grinder serving as an anode. A weak-electric coolant is supplied to the space between the grinder and the electrode.

Abstract: An apparatus and a method of machining optical components such as lens is disclosed. The apparatus comprises an optical raw stock or material, a rotatable holding shaft for holding the optical raw stock, a machining tool having a machining surface thereof held by a rotatable machining shaft and arranged opposite to a surface to be machined of the optical raw stock, an electrically conductive tool as the machining tool, an electrode arranged at a certain distance from the machining surface of the conductive tool, an electrolytic power supply source for applying a positive voltage to the conductive tool and a negative voltage therefrom to the electrode, respectively, and a coolant supplying unit having a nozzle and for spraying weakly conductive coolant between the conductive tool and the electrode, thereby performing the machining of the optical raw stock or material.