What Is the Difference Between Flap Discs & Flap Wheels?
When it comes to your abrasive jobs, you must choose the right tool depending on your job requirements. If you fail to use the correct tool, you may be left with a finish you’re unhappy with, it may even hinder the progress of your project. Flap discs and flap wheels are two of the most common abrasive tools, but, what is the difference between the two?
What Are Flap Discs & When to Use Them?
Flap discs are an abrasive product which is primarily used to shape and contour metals by grinding, blending and finishing. Flap Discs consist of overlapping abrasive flaps which are bonded to a backing plate, this provides stability to the flap disc. Available in a range of abrasive grains and grit sizes, the most common types of flap discs are:
- Zirconium Flap Discs
- Ceramic Flap Discs
- Aluminium Oxide Flap Discs
When Are Flap Discs Used?
When working with metals, flap discs are the recommended abrasive tool because of their versatility and flexibility. Flap discs have several different uses including grinding & smoothing, deburring & edge work, blending & finishing, stock removal and conforming to curves and contours. There’s also a range of different benefits when using flap discs, including:
- Safety - Flap discs are less likely to shatter and throw sparks when used correctly.
- Precision and Control - The flexibility that comes with flap discs allows for more controlled finishing.
- Versatility - One disc can be used for multiple tasks to save effort and time. For example, for finishing, you should apply light pressure whereas for grinding, you should apply heavy pressure.
- Reduced Vibrations - Flap discs run smoother making them more comfortable to use.
- Cooler operation - Flap discs are less prone to heat building up, which minimises metal burning.
Engineering Utilities supplies a range of flap discs to help complete your project.
How Engineering Utilities Can Help You
Here at Engineering Utilities, we have a large range of different abrasive products to ensure your project gets completed in the fastest and most efficient way possible. Our extensive range also consists of grinding discs, polishing discs and sanding discs. To see our full range of abrasive tools, visit our website or contact our team today.