In cam grinding process, the grinding force changes with the change of cam contour, and its change leads to create the error of X-C linkage servo-tracking position, all of the factors reduce the cam the contour accuracy. To improve the accuracy of the cam profile, and research the effect of X-C axis servo tracking, the key vector of grinding force to the position is proposed, in which the factors have been considered including the grinding depth, curvature change, cam width, length and other effects. According to the mechanical analysis of cam and grinding wheel, a cam grinding XC-axis grinding force model is established. With the flat-bottomed follower cam as an example, the grinding force of X axis and C axis is calculated. The cam grinding experiment was conducted in the grinding machine, the tangential grinding force and normal grinding force were obtained and the model was verified. The grinding force mathematical model of X-C linkage provides the theoretical basis for the servo tracking position of X-C linkage grinding. © 2016 Trans Tech Publications, Switzerland.