Abstract In grinding, the contact zone temperature is a decisive factor influencing the achievable surface quality and the grinding tool wear. In contrast to other grinding processes, only few information regarding double face grinding with planetary kinematics when processing steel is known up to date. Since the successive substitution of industrial double-sided lapping processes by double-sided grinding, it has become necessary to the conducted research in order to provide deeper understanding of the process and factors that influence it. To determine the workpiece temperature during grinding of C45 components, silicon temperature sensors were integrated into the workpiece holders and technological investigations were carried out. The influences and interactions of the mean cutting speed, cooling lubricant flow rate and cutting ability of the grinding wheels on the resulting workpiece temperature were analysed. Subsequently, modelling enabled an empirical estimation of the resulting workpiece temperature for processes in the investigated test area. With regard to the design and optimization of processes for machining plane-parallel workpiece surfaces, this model is a helpful tool for avoiding thermally induced workpiece damage and reduction of tool wear. Furthermore, the method can be used to conduct further examinations on the grinding process and to reduce the amount of cooling lubricant used, to improve life cycle assessment.