The Basics of Industrial Abrasives

The Basics of Industrial Abrasives

Industrial abrasives are used to grind, blend, polish, sand, prep, cut, clean or repair surfaces. Abrasives are extremely commonplace and are used very extensively in a wide variety of industrial, domestic, and technological applications.

Grinding wheels are probably the most popular kind of abrasive. Grinding wheels are categorized by application, type, and size.


Wheel Applications

Cutting Wheels are designed for cutting and notching only. These should never be used for angle grinding.

Grinding Wheels are designed to remove stock. “Flat” grinding refers to grinding at a shallow angle – never truly flat.

Finishing Wheels will blend and finish surfaces. The extent to which they finish will be determined by their grit.

Conditioning / Cleaning Wheels are used to remove surface contaminants such as weld splatter, corrosion, rust, or paint, rather than the material itself. The desired aggressiveness and finish will guide product and grade selection.


Wheel Types

Type 1 Wheels are flat and are used for cutting.

Type 27 Wheels feature a depressed center that allows the grinder shaft and nut to be recessed in order to avoid contact with the workpiece. This is the most popular type of grinding wheel and should be used at an angle of 30-45 degrees. A Type 27 thin cut-off wheel allows for flush cutting.

Type 28 Wheels are saucer-shaped and allow a shallower grinding angle of 15 degrees. These reduce operator fatigue by keeping the operator’s elbow down. Type 28 wheels are preferred for broad surfaces.

Type 29 Wheels are turned slightly upward at the edge. Due to this built-in grinding angle, these wheels are better for finishing and are less likely to gouge a workpiece.

Hubbed Wheels feature a threaded attachment which is usually 5/8-11. These wheels can be mounted on a tool shaft without flanges or nuts.

Unhubbed Wheels have an arbor in the middle, which is secured with a flange and nut. These always cost less than hubbed wheels.


Tips

14” Cut-Off Wheels are not all the same!

• Chop Saw blades are designed for portable, tabletop chop saws
• Stationary Saw blades are designed for larger cut-off saws that are mounted to the floor
• High Speed Saw blades are designed for hand-held gas or electric saws

Max RPM’s should never be exceeded with an abrasive wheel at any time. Always make sure that the maximum RPM’s stated on your product exceeds the maximum RPM’s on your tool.

When cutting with a portable power tool, you should always cut in a straight line, and maintain constant and a 90 degree angle to the workpiece. You should slowly oscillate back and forth across the cut – letting the wheel do the cutting. This will result in a faster cut, better product performance and prevent twisting in the cut.


Safety Standards for Industrial Abrasives

The American National Standards Institute (ANSI ) and the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA ) have published standards concerning the proper use, handling, and storage of abrasive wheels. It is recommended that all personnel involved in the use, handling, and purchasing of abrasive wheels become familiar with these standards.

To see safety guidelines based on ANSI B7-1, “Safety Requirements for the Use, Care and Protection of Abrasive Wheels”, CLICK HERE.