Final answer:
Blotters on both sides of a grinding wheel are essential for cushioning, distributing clamping force evenly, preventing damage, absorbing vibrations, and providing a secure fit, ensuring the safety and effectiveness of grinding operations.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question 'Why is it necessary to have blotters on both sides of the wheel?' seems to pertain to the installation of grinding wheels in an engineering or shop context. Blotters are typically used in this setting as cushioning layers between a grinding wheel and the flanges that hold it in place on a grinding machine. The primary purpose of blotters is to ensure an even distribution of the clamping force and to protect the wheel from direct metal-to-metal contact, which can lead to damage or uneven wear. They also help absorb vibrations, provide a degree of friction, and help conform to the shape of the flange to promote a secure fit. Because the forces acting on a grinding wheel during operation are substantial and evenly distributed stress is critical for both safety and effectiveness, blotters are necessary on both sides of the wheel to maintain wheel integrity and the safety of the operation.