Bondes abrasive grinding wheels are manufactured in a variety of shapes and specifications to suit a wide diversity of grinding wheel uses. Standard wheel shapes and specifications are readily available to suit the most common applications and custom-made grinding wheels are manufactured to handle more specialised and technical applications.

A uniformed system of grinding wheel markings permits the easy identification of the elements and characteristics that have been built into a wheel. Each element or charachteristic is capable of modification to meet specific grinding conditions or to convert specifications to those of the various abrasive wheel manufacturers.

The most important components in any grinding wheel are the abrasive type, grit size, grade and bond.

The manufacture of modern synthetic abrasives allow accurate control of the physical properties of abrasive grain types so ensuring that grinding wheels can be manufactured with consistent cutting ability.

This is important in determining a wheel's ability to remove stock.

As a general rule:

• Coarser grits for rapid stock removal where surface finish is not important and on areas of large contact
• Medium grits for medium stock removal and commercial finishes
• Fine/Very fine on applications where stock removal is low and better finishes are required

Grade is a measure of the bond strength or hardness of a grinding wheel. Measured on an alphabetical scale from A to Z, with A at the softer end of the scale.

The optimum wheel grade depends on the application. The wheel should be hard enough to give good wheel life with maximum parts per dress but soft enough to prevent dulling and glazing of the wheels.

• Softer grades of wheel are normally used on hard materials such as high speed steels, for large contact areas or for rapid stock removal.
• Harder grades are used on soft materials, small or narrow areas of contact, for longer wheel life and on high horse power machines.

The type of bond in a wheel is generally chosen based on the application and speed of the wheel.

• Vitrified bonds are used mainly for precision grinding where high accuracy and tolerances are required. Unaffected by water, oil, caustic solutions and grinding solutions because of their vitreous construction, they are subject to breakage if abused or damaged through misuse. Maximum operating speeds for most vitrified wheels range from 33 metres to 43 metres per second, depending on the vitrified bond type.
• Resinoid bonds are tougher and less rigid than vitrified wheels. They are ideal for use in rough grinding and heavy-duty applications. They can also be used to achieve fine finishes. For extra strength they are often fitted with steel rings or fibreglass reinforcement. Maximum operating speed 45 metres per second but can be higher with reinforced products

Australian Industrial Abrasives Pty. Ltd. is a specialist supplier with experienced technical personnel who can assist you to determine the best grinding wheel for your application. Contact us now for more information!