Kayson Green Talks: Slitting Discs
Slitting discs, also known as cutting discs, are thin sheets of abrasive wheels bound with resin. They are used to cut steel, both ordinary and stainless, as well as other non-metallic materials. Slitting discs are used with angle grinders and cutting machines in the production and blanking of steel and non-metal. Depending on the shape and type of material being cut, different discs can be used.
Here is our guide to cutting discs and what to look for when purchasing them.
Types of Cutting Wheels
There are two types of slitting wheels that can be fitted into an angle grinder. Depending on the shape being cut, these slitting discs can differ. The first is a flat-cutting wheel, which offers the most versatility when cutting profiles, corners, and multiple planes. The second type is a depressed centre cutting wheel that offers extra clearance space for tight corners and overhangs. While both types of cutting wheels have their benefits, most users will find more use in a flat cutting wheel. If you’d like more information on which slitting discs should be used then please feel free to book a site visit with our demonstration vehicle where we can help and advise.
Choosing the Grain
The most common grain for cutting discs is aluminium oxide due to it’s soft bond that is fast and smooth to operate. This type of grain can cuts through ordinary and stainless steel, which can be a harder type of steel to cut through. This cutting disc can also cut through other types of metal including aluminium, rebar, and other types of steel.
Choosing the Size
How much you need to cut will determine the size of the cutting disc you need. A smaller disc of around 115mm will not extend far from the angle grinder axle which makes this disc perfect for cutting small amounts of around 50mm or so. On the other hand, a larger disc of around 230mm may be ideal for large cuts but will be hard to use and even potentially risky for small cuts. So, you need to carefully consider the size of the disc for the amount you need to cut.
Choosing the Thickness
Depending on the type of material being cut, as well as its overall shape and thickness, you will need to choose on the right thickness of your cutting wheel. Between 1mm and 1.6mm is a good size for standard jobs involving ordinary and stainless steel, while a 0.8mm thickness is best for thin pieces of sheet metal. For significantly thicker pieces of metal, you may need to choose between a 1.6mm and 2.5mm thick wheel, although you should always lubricate these blades to avoid chipping.
Rubber Bonded Slitting Wheels
In our selection of precision cutting wheels, we have our rubber-bonded slitting wheels for a highly accurate precision cut. These cutting wheels come in sizes between 25mm to 350mm, with a thickness of 0.12mm to 10mm. We also offer different grain materials including aluminium oxide and silicon carbide. To find out more about our products, get in touch with us today!
View Products Call +44 (0)1206 751500 Email sales@kaysongreen.co.uk