We often use the terms wheel and disc interchangeably in the workplace. But do they really mean the same thing? No, the differences are vast, and we are here to help explain. From grinding wheels to grinding discs, flap wheels to flap discs and emery cloth, let’s dive into their differences and the best applications for each.
Grinding Wheels and Grinding Discs
While both serve similar functions, there are key differences that determine their suitability for various tasks. Understanding these differences and their applications can help improve efficiency and precision in your work.
A grinding wheel is a molded abrasive used for grinding or machining metal and other materials. The wheel is typically mounted on a machine like a bench grinder, surface grinder or a hand-held tool like an angle grinder. Its main purpose is to remove material from a workpiece through friction, using a combination of abrasive grit and the structure of the wheel itself.
Grinding discs are similar to grinding wheels but are typically constructed of a thin backing material coated with an abrasive grain. They are most often used with die grinders, angle grinders and pneumatic right-angle grinders. Their primary function is to cut or grind materials to smooth out surfaces or prepare for additional finishing steps. They are available in multiple grits for tasks from rough shaping to fine finishing.
Applications:
Flap Abrasives
Flap discs, wheels and bands might be more of an easy mix up, especially when in day-to-day conversation. The terms might flow more interchangeably than other categories. So, which is the right the right term and what is the best application for each?
Flap abrasives are a type of grinding tool made by layering pieces of abrasive cloth onto a base or core. The flaps overlap each other, and as the tool rotates, the individual flaps wear down, exposing fresh abrasive material. This provides consistent cutting action, leading to smooth finishes and a more controlled grinding process.
Flap discs are disc shaped and flat (Type 2) or sloped away from the center (Type 29) with overlapping flaps to provide grinding and finishing in the same run. They are one of the most popular and versatile abrasive tools. They are commonly used on angle grinders and are designed to be used on flat or contoured surfaces.
Flap wheels are similar to flap discs, but they are designed for use on straight die grinders and angle grinders. The flaps are mounted on a cylindrical core, creating a wheel shape and are ideal for working on irregular hard-to-reach surfaces such as the inside of pipes or tubes.
Flap bands are similar to flap wheels but are designed to fit over a mandrel or drum. They are cylindrical, but hollow, with hard backing material on the inner ring and are often used with hand tools or other machinery. They are typically used for smaller-scale, precision work.
Applications:
Emery Cloth
Emery cloth is a hand-held abrasive material that is not used with power tools. So, emery cloth is a type of abrasive material made by bonding abrasive particles onto a cloth backing. Unlike sandpaper, which typically has a paper backing, emery cloth's fabric base provides enhanced durability and flexibility.
This cloth is designed for hand sanding and polishing tasks, providing smooth, controlled abrasion for various materials. It is available in multiple grits, providing stock removal or finer finishing. The user can precisely control the amount of material removed.
Understanding the differences between grinding discs and wheels, flap discs, wheels and bands, as well as emery cloth and selecting the right one for each task is essential for ensuring efficiency, safety and quality in your work.
If you still have more questions on which options best fit your project and would like to learn more, contact your Kimball Midwest sales representative today. If you do not have a sales rep, we can help you