Marking and Main Parameters of Cutting Abrasive Wheels
Cutting abrasive wheels are essential tools in various industrial processes, used to cut, grind, or shape hard materials such as metals, stones, and ceramics. These wheels are made from abrasive grains bonded together, providing excellent cutting performance. A proper understanding of the marking and main parameters of these wheels is crucial for selecting the right product for your specific needs.
INO, we are committed to delivering high-quality cutting wheels designed to meet the demands of various industries. Below, we provide an overview of how abrasive wheels are marked and explain the main parameters that determine their performance.
- Marking of Cutting Abrasive Wheels
The marking on a cutting abrasive wheel provides vital information about its specifications. Understanding these markings helps users select the correct wheel for their application. The markings typically include the following:
- Shape: Indicated by a number or code, such as 41 (flat cutting wheel) or 42 (depressed center wheel), the shape defines the profile of the cutting wheel and its appropriate use.
- Dimensions: The wheel's diameter, thickness, and bore size are indicated in millimeters, e.g., 125x1.0x22.23. This represents:
- 125 mm (Diameter)
- 0 mm (Thickness)
- 23 mm (Bore diameter)
- Abrasive Material: Common abrasive materials include:
- A (Aluminum Oxide) – suitable for cutting ferrous metals like steel.
- C (Silicon Carbide) – used for non-ferrous metals, concrete, and stone.
- Bond Type: The bond type indicates how the abrasive grains are held together. Common bond types are:
- BF: Resin-bonded with fiber reinforcement for strength and durability.
- Grade and Hardness: The grade is expressed through a combination of letters and numbers. The letter indicates hardness, ranging from A (softest) to Z (hardest). A hard wheel will cut slower but last longer, while a soft wheel cuts faster but wears out quicker.
- Grain Size (Grit): Expressed by a number, such as 24, 36, 60, etc., this represents the size of the abrasive grains. Smaller numbers correspond to coarse grains, which remove more material but leave a rougher finish, while larger numbers indicate fine grains for precision work.
- Maximum Operating Speed: Indicated in meters per second (m/s) or revolutions per minute (RPM), this shows the maximum safe speed at which the wheel can operate. For example, "80 m/s" ensures the wheel can safely be used on high-speed machines.
- Standard Compliance: Markings like "EN 12413" indicate that the wheel complies with European safety standards, ensuring high-quality and safe products for industrial use.
- Main Parameters of Cutting Abrasive Wheels
Several key parameters determine the performance of a cutting abrasive wheel:
A. Abrasive Material
The choice of abrasive material is critical to the performance of the wheel. Different materials are designed for specific applications:
- Aluminum Oxide (A): Ideal for cutting ferrous metals like steel, carbon steel, and cast iron.
- Silicon Carbide (C): Suitable for cutting non-ferrous metals such as aluminum, copper, and brass, as well as materials like stone, concrete, and ceramics.
- Zirconia Alumina (ZA): Provides excellent performance for heavy-duty applications and stainless steel cutting.
B. Grain Size (Grit)
Grain size affects the cutting speed and surface finish:
- Coarse Grain (e.g., 24-36 Grit): Used for rough cuts and quickly removing large amounts of material.
- Medium Grain (e.g., 46-60 Grit): Provides a balance between material removal and finish.
- Fine Grain (e.g., 80-120 Grit): Suitable for precise cuts and a smoother finish.
C. Wheel Hardness
The hardness of the wheel defines its wear rate and the quality of the cut:
- Soft Wheels: Cut more aggressively but wear out quickly. Ideal for softer materials and applications where fast material removal is needed.
- Hard Wheels: Have a longer lifespan but cut more slowly. These are suited for harder materials and applications requiring extended use.
D. Bond Type
The bond material influences the wheel's cutting ability, durability, and safety:
- Resinoid Bond (BF): Commonly used in cutting and grinding wheels due to its flexibility, toughness, and resistance to impact. Reinforced with fibers, these bonds ensure that the wheels maintain their strength during high-speed operations.
E. Wheel Speed
The operating speed of the cutting wheel is critical for safe and effective performance:
- Max RPM: This value ensures the wheel is operated within safe speed limits. Always check that the cutting tool's speed does not exceed the maximum rated RPM of the wheel.
- Peripheral Speed (m/s): Specifies the maximum linear speed at which the outer edge of the wheel can safely operate, typically ranging from 60 to 80 m/s.
F. Thickness
The thickness of the wheel impacts the cutting speed and finish quality:
- Thin Wheels (e.g., 1.0-1.6 mm)**: Provide fast cutting speeds and are ideal for precision work.
- Thicker Wheels (e.g., 2.5 mm and above)**: Designed for heavy-duty applications where durability and longevity are key.
- Selecting the Right Cutting Wheel
When selecting a cutting abrasive wheel, consider the following factors:
- Material to be cut: Choose the abrasive material based on the hardness and type of material you are working with.
- Desired Cut Quality: Select the appropriate grit size for the finish required. For rough cuts, opt for coarser grains; for smoother cuts, finer grains are preferable.
- Machine Compatibility: Ensure that the wheel's dimensions, maximum operating speed, and bore size are compatible with the machine you are using.
- Safety: Always select wheels that comply with safety standards (e.g., EN 12413) and adhere to the maximum operating speed indicated on the wheel.
Conclusion
Marking and understanding the main parameters of cutting abrasive wheels are crucial for ensuring optimal performance and safety during operation. At INO, we manufacture high-quality cutting wheels designed to meet rigorous industry standards, ensuring safety, precision, and efficiency. Whether you're cutting metal, stone, or other materials, understanding the specifications of your cutting wheels will help you choose the right product for your needs.
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