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Metal Grinding: Laying the foundation.
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Grinding is an essential process in metal fabrication, and 3M has the cutting-edge abrasive products you need for every type of grinding. Our fiber discs, flap discs, grinding wheels and belts make quick work of leveling welds, beveling edges, removing gates and more.
Partner with 3M to discover what industry-leading abrasive technologies can do for your operation.
Metal Grinding Applications and Processes
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After welding, you often need to level the weld and smooth the surface. To accomplish this, we recommend using a 3M™ Cubitron™ II fibre disc, flap disc, or depressed center grinding wheel. This allows you to quickly remove the weld and create a level surface.
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Beveling is done to shape edges of your workpiece prior to welding. This can be done using either a fibre disc, flap disc, depressed center grinding wheel, or even with an abrasive belt. Our selection of metalworking abrasives can help you take the edge off of any metal part or substrate.
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When precision is not only expected, but required, trust 3M abrasives to deliver. We have the products and expertise to support and improve your precision processes – including centerless grinding, creep-feed and surface grinding, gear grinding, microfinishing and more.
Quick tips for grinding metal.
Grinding seems simple, but doing it right will save you time — and money. These tips will help you get started.
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What 3M product should I use to grind steel?
Not all steel is created equal. For example, when grinding stainless steel, it’s important to find an abrasive designed for heat-sensitive metals. Select a disc with a grinding aid for cooler running temperatures, like the 3M™ Cubitron™ II Fibre Disc 987C. For grinding carbon steel, 3M™ Cubitron™ II Fibre Disc 982C delivers legendary cutting speed. If you’re looking for durability and long life, 3M™ Cubitron™ II Depressed Center Grinding Wheels are up to challenge.
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What PPE should be worn when grinding?
Personal protective equipment (PPE) should always be worn when performing grinding work. 3M recommends wearing a full face shield, respirator, eye protection, ear protection, gloves, body and skin protection, and foot protection while grinding. These measures help protect against sparks and flying debris, as well as damage to hearing. These safety measures are recommended when running right angle grinders, belt machines and all other grinding machines.
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What’s the difference between type 27 and type 29 wheels?
When selecting a flap disc, the two common types are type 27 and type 29. Type 27 flap discs are flat, and ideal for generating a smooth finish on flat areas and outside edges. Type 29 flap discs have a more conical shape with an angle that allows for more aggressive cutting action, making them ideal for stock removal. Type 27 grinding wheels feature a depressed center that allows the lock nut to be recessed and out of the way while grinding.
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What’s the correct angle for grinding?
When grinding welds, it’s important to get the right angle between the weld and the abrasive. When grinding with a fiber disc, the optimal grinding angle is about 10º. When using a grinding wheel, it’s best to grind at about a 30º angle. Grinding at that angle helps the wheel reduce in diameter as it wears — hold the wheel too flat and it can get thin and pose a safety risk. Flap discs should also be used at a 30º angle when grinding.
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We are interested in helping you decide which Industrial Abrasives product works best for your application. A 3M Abrasive Expert will contact you to ensure you're getting the product you need to get your job done right.
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