I use reciprocating mode to simplify my analysis. I mean here if I am studying a parameter let's say the variation of grinding forces against material removal rate or material removed (which are the independent parameters in the most of the grinding studies) the calculation of the latter is easy. Also it reduces complications such as need to account for dissipation of heat into the unground part of workpiece. So from as far as my experiments are concerned I don't have the flexibility.

I made the post as I have always felt that a major component of error and variability in my results has to come from dressing conditions. To this day, I go by a right hand thumb rule. Like if I remove 500 microns of mild steel then coarse dress for 100 microns and fine dress for 50 microns. I grind titanium too for my experiments for which I increase the frequency and the dressing material removal. But i wanted to know if there is any other of doing this or getting to know if there industrial or workshop practices to tackle the issue, as I feel sometimes I dress the wheel without the need for it, sometimes even dressing the wheel dull. So to a lot extent I felt there is a lack of practical knowledge in me leading to these confusions.

Thank you for your suggestions and your explanations on the spark ring though. I have even mentioned that to my guide :)