An abrasive flap disc is used for metal fabrication. They
provide grinding, blending, and finishing with just a one tool attachment, and
at a lower cost. Over the last ten years, they have been the fastest growing
category in the abrasives industry. Essentially, they work well to reduce
gouging and burning since they cut cooler. This makes them a preferred choice
among metal fabricators, and for good reason. Not only are flap discs lighter
in weight and easier to control, but they also have less downtime for product
changes.This reduces vibration, noise,
and even fatigue.

Flap Disc Types

Flap discs are mostly used on right-angle grinders, so they
are specially designed with a hub that allows metalwork to be done on the face.
And the flaps can be used at both an angle and flat. Choosing the right flap
disc shape is vital to your finished product. 

There are two primary shapes of
flap discs: Type 29 Conical and Type 27 Flat. Each flap disc shape provides
different performance features, so it is important to choose the proper one for
your metalworking project. Review the differences below to learn the
recommended applications for each.

Type 29 Conical flap discs are recommended for removing
heavy layers of stock. Since they have angled flaps, they can be used for both
edge and contour work. Angled flaps allow for greater surface area contact,
making them the perfect choice for stock removal on flat surfaces. When you are
in need of speed, and stock removal, Type 29 flap discs are the way to go.

Type 27 Flat flap discs are recommended for finishing metal
on flat surfaces. Although they can be used for simple edge work. When you are
just looking to blend, smooth, and finish metal, Type 27 Flat flap discs will
be your best option.

Abrasives for Metal Work

With an abrasive flap disc, you’ll need the proper grit
sandpaper. As for metal work, there are three recommended types of abrasives to
use: 1) Aluminum Oxide, 2) Ceramic Alumina, and 3) Zirconia Alumina. These
abrasives are designed to shape and smooth metal. Use aluminum oxide sandpaper
for smaller projects, ceramic alumina for stainless steel or high-alloy
materials, and zirconia alumina for carbon and mild steel applications.

Are you ready to stock up on some new metalworking
materials? Contact
Sandpaper America at 1-800-860-7263 (SAND) to buy high-quality metalworking
products like Cloth
X-Weight Belts, Flexible
J-Weight Belts, and several other kinds of cloth
metalworking wide belts. We offer custom orders, bulk orders, reoccurring
orders, invoicing, and much more!

Related Posts:

Which
Sandpaper Grit Do I Use on Metal?
How
to Use Steel Brushes to Finish Metal
The
Correct Sandpaper Grits for Sanding Car Paint