Abstract: A grinding machine for grinding workpieces, such as ingots and billets, is provided which, in combination, includes a movable table for supporting the workpiece, a base arranged adjacent to the movable table, and a pair of arms pivotally mounted on the base. A holder supports a grinding wheel, and the holder is pivotally connected to the pair of arms at a pivot so that the contact force of the grinding wheel with the workpiece is caused by the turning moment of the holder about the pivot. A hydraulic cylinder is connected to the holder for pivoting the holder and the grinding wheel about the pivot so that the contact force of the grinding wheel may be balanced and controlled. In addition, the hydraulic cylinder is supported on a movable carriage and is connected to the pivot so that the hydraulic cylinder is movable with the holder and the grinding wheel as the holder moves about the pivot.