Short notes on Flap Discs used for grinding application

Almost all major abrasives companies manufacture “Flap Disc” grinding wheel because of versatile use. Flap discs are produced from multiple overlapping pieces of coated abrasive grains that are adhered to a backing cloth which could be Polycotton or polyester. The cloth is then cut into smaller flaps that are layered in a circular pattern to form the flap disc. The three primary abrasive grains used in flap disc are aluminium oxide, zirconia alumina and ceramic alumina. Aluminium oxide is the traditional low-cost abrasive and is still used for softer metals like iron and other applications, but the most common grain used today is zirconia alumina. This grain provides the most versatility for the best price and performance and is used in the majority of applications. The benefits of ceramic alumina grains include self-sharpening to provide continuous sharp edges and more heat resistance, which both provide longer life. Ceramic grains, however, are the most expensive option.

Advantages of Flap Discs:

1.      Flap discs are ideal for grinding and finishing in one step.

2.      Flap discs are available in a range of grit sizes, which means that customers can easily find the disc they need to achieve the finish they’re looking for,”

3.      Flap discs remove metal dramatically faster than a hard grinding wheel,”

4.      Polycotton vs polyester. The Polycotton provides increased grain retention and better flexibility than a polyester backing.

5.      A Polycotton backing is much more advantageous for flap discs that are used at higher speeds.

Source for complete article: https://modernabrasivesdeburring.com/flap-discs/1460-time-matters