Cutting wheels for grinders: the right choice for safe work

Types of cutting wheels

Classification by purpose

• Metal discs. Scope of application: cutting reinforcement, profile pipes, steel angles, channels, sheet steel.
• Circles on wood. Also used for cutting plastic pipes, window profiles, plasterboard and MDF boards. Made from high-strength steel, the outer edge of the disc is equipped with sharp teeth.
• Cutting discs for stone. Designed to work with products made of sand-lime brick, paving slabs, stone structures, paving stones, asbestos-cement sheets.

Classification by production technology

Abrasive discs

The base of the metal disc consists of at least two layers of fiberglass mesh, on top of which a mass of abrasive materials is applied:

• corundum;
• silicon carbide;
• electrocorundum.

The technology for manufacturing cutting wheels for metal involves heat treatment, after which the product becomes resistant to destruction. The disc is baked in an oven at a temperature of +2000C.

Depending on the shape, abrasive consumable tools are divided into two types:

• flat disks;
• circles with a concave sleeve.

Diamond wheels

Area of ​​application: cutting particularly durable materials:

• concrete,
• granite,
• marble,
• red brick,
• asphalt,
• stone

Made from steel. An abrasive mass containing diamond chips is applied to the end part of the circle. The width of the diamond-bearing layer varies from 1.5 to 3 mm.

In large-diameter circles intended for pass-through work, the width of the layer of diamond chips can reach 1-2 cm.

There are three types of diamond cutting discs on the market:

1. Solid. Designed for wet cutting of materials, it is a solid disc with a continuous diamond edge.
2. Segmented. Used for dry cutting. The cutting diamond edge is divided into separate segments.
3. Turbo disc. The diamond-bearing edge is made in the shape of a wave. The presence of inclined grooves reduces the contact area with the working material, resulting in natural cooling. The universal wheel is used for wet and dry cutting.

Application of cutting discs for metal

Certain wheels are used when cutting samples of varying degrees of hardness. It could be:

• brick;
• concrete;
• metal;
• granite, difficult to cut.

How to choose cutting discs for an angle grinder for metal
You can also perform grinding at any level, stripping metals, cleaning surfaces from paint, corrosion and adhesives.

Cutting discs can be selected for small, medium and large grinders. When choosing, the main attention should be paid to the selection of external and internal diameters. The depth of the cut will depend on the size of the circle.

Cutting wheels for metal

Also important is the number of teeth – cutting segments, which varies from 24 to 100 and is responsible for the cutting speed. The greater the number of teeth, the higher the speed.

When cutting metal, discs with a diameter of 200–300 mm are most often used. They are used for cutting aluminum and steel profiles, sheet steel, fittings and non-ferrous metals.

Characteristics of cutting wheels

Bundle type

The strength, productivity and quality of the cut depends on the type of bond. In the production of discs, organic and inorganic binders are used. The first type includes vulcanite and bakelite, the second - ceramic.

Vulcanite binder is a mass of rubber and sulfur that has undergone heat treatment. Discs based on it are characterized by a dense structure and elasticity.

The strength of the vulcanite bonded wheel allows for operating cutting speeds of 50,60 and 80 m/s.

The basis of the bakelite binder is powdered and liquid phenol-formaldehyde resins with fillers. Cryolite, alabaster, and pyrite are used as fillers.

Abrasive wheels on a bakelite bond are characterized by high bending and compressive strength, but they are not resistant to the effects of alkaline cooling water (the alkali content in the liquid should not exceed 1.5%).

The operating speed of circular rotation is over 80 m/s.

The disadvantage of bakelite binder is its low heat resistance: when heated to 2000C, it becomes brittle, and when the temperature rises to 250-3000C, it burns out.

The starting materials for creating a ceramic bond are:

• fire-clay;
• talc;
• liquid glass;
• chalk;
• quartz;
• feldspar.

The ceramic binder increases the water resistance of the abrasive tool; it is characterized by high fire resistance and resistance to chemicals. Disadvantages include sensitivity to impact loads and low bending strength.

Outer and inner diameter of cutting wheels

The market offers cutting discs with outer diameters from 115 to 500 mm. The following are in demand in everyday life:

• diameter 115 mm – designed for small-sized grinders;
• diameters 125, 150 mm – used in angle grinders of medium power and size;
• diameters 180, 230 mm - intended for professional tools.

The diameter of the seat for household tools is most often 22 or 32 mm.

Grain

The characteristic displays the cutting ability of the cutting wheel. The fraction of the abrasive substance varies in the range from 100 to 2000 microns. The higher the grain size, the better the cutting quality.

But at the same time, large abrasive grains reduce the strength of the consumable tool.

Abrasive substance

The performance quality of cutting discs is influenced not only by the grain size, but also by the shape and characteristics of the abrasive substance.

The shape of electrocorundum particles is most suitable for cutting steel products; harder grains of silicon carbide are intended for working with non-metallic materials or alloys of non-ferrous metals.

An important parameter is the heat resistance of the abrasive. Corundum abrasives have the best heat resistance; the operating temperature range of the substance is from 1700 to 19000C.

Diamond abrasives and boron carbide are characterized by the lowest heat resistance - 700-8000C.

Thickness of cutting wheels

The thickness of household cutting discs ranges from 1-5 mm. It is rational to use thin wheels when working with low-power angle grinders.

The smaller the height of the disk, the easier and faster the cutting process occurs - due to the lower resistance of the material. Cutting with a thick wheel will require more effort.

Consumable tools with medium and small outer diameters can have any thickness, circles with large diameters can only have the maximum thickness.

Advantages

The main advantages of abrasive wheels:

• the porous structure ensures natural cooling of the consumable tool;
• the disc does not become dull during operation;
• affordable price;
• large selection of products.

Positive qualities of diamond cutting blades:

• high cutting precision;
• wear resistance;
• there is no strong burning smell;
• minimum number of sparks during operation.

Flaws

The negative qualities of abrasive consumables are:

• formation of a sheaf of sparks during operation;
• the appearance of a strong characteristic odor when cutting;
• rapid wear.

Disadvantages of diamond wheels:

• expensive;
• low heat resistance.

How to choose cutting wheels

The main designations influencing the choice of product are:

• type of compatible equipment (hand tools, stationary equipment);
• best before date;
• abrasive grain size (the smaller the numerical value of the grain size, the larger the grain fraction);
• outer diameter of the circle and seat size;
• thickness of consumable tool;
• maximum number of revolutions (the parameter should not exceed the rotational speed of the power tool);
• operating speed (indicated as a numerical value or marked with a transverse color stripe: yellow indicates speed up to 63 m/s, red – up to 80 m/s, green – up to 100 m/s);
• type of ligament, presence of a reinforcing element;
• purpose of the tool (the type of working material is indicated in the form of a graphic image or color designation).

Color designation of the type of working material

For abrasive wheels:

• green color - stone;
• blue color – steel.

Marking of diamond blades:

• green color – granite;
• blue color – marble, concrete;
• yellow color – tiles, alabaster;
• orange color – brick;
• gray color – granite, ceramics, tiles.

Rating of expensive products

FerrLine Expert 355*3.2*25.4 mm A-30/TBF

The model is not commercially available, but can be ordered from the manufacturer. The circle belongs to the cutting category. An exclusive recipe of resins and abrasives is used in its production. The diameter of the product is 355 millimeters, the landing is 22.2 millimeters. The thickness of the structure is 3.2 mm. Despite its Chinese origin, there are no complaints about the quality of the products. Everything is done conscientiously. The reviews are only positive. The shape of the consumable is straight. Will quickly and efficiently complete assigned tasks in a short period of time. Will cut metal products of any strength.

The average cost is 301 rubles.

cutting wheel FerrLine Expert 355*3.2*25.4 mm A-30/TBF

Advantages:

• exclusive composition;
• reliability;
• functionality;
• performance;
• quality of work;
• safety;
• wear resistance;
• value for money.

Flaws:

• not identified.

Bosch 2608623013, 125*22.2 mm

Straight cut-off universal nozzle. Belongs to the class of abrasive. Field of application: cutting wooden structures. Purchased for use with hand-held circular saws or angle grinders. Works quickly and efficiently on wooden and plastic surfaces. Produced by a Swiss company. Seat – 22 mm, disc size – 12.5 cm. Distinctive features include:

• rotation speed up to 80 m/s at a rotation speed of 12250 rpm;
• when used with an angle grinder, you must first study the instructions provided by the manufacturer;
• work only using personal protective equipment;
• During operation, strictly follow safety regulations.

The thickness of the product is 1 mm. Country of origin: Switzerland. The product form is straight. Narrow specialization - working with wood.

The purchase price is 674 rubles.

cutting wheel Bosch 2608623013, 125*22.2 mm

Advantages:

• long service life;
• performance;
• practicality;
• versatility;
• reliability;
• functionality;
• safety.

Flaws:

• none.

Bosch 2608623012, 115*22.2 mm

Products from a prestigious Swiss manufacturer. The price is high, but the product is worth it. When purchasing a batch worth up to 17,000 rubles, the manufacturer provides significant discounts. Belongs to the category of multifunctional segmented attachments for angle grinders. Product type – cut, shape – straight. Designed for woodworking. The coating is carbide, high quality. Features reliable cutting. It can handle not only wood of any strength, but also plastic and drywall.

The manufacturer equipped his brainchild with damping slots, which makes it possible to reduce the stress on the disc blade. This will help avoid surface deformation. The mounting hole is 22.23 mm, the diameter of the consumable is 11.5 cm, the thickness is 1 mm. The maximum permissible rotation speed is 13300 rpm. Suitable for all standard modern angle grinders.

Retailers are asking 945 rubles for the product.

cutting wheel Bosch 2608623012, 115*22.2 mm

Advantages:

• functionality;
• durability;
• great job;
• efficiency;
• ease of use;
• reliability;
• quality of materials used;
• safety.

Flaws:

• not installed.

Vira Rage, 125*22 mm

A convenient and functional cutting attachment is produced in the Middle Kingdom. Despite its Chinese origin, the quality and durability of the product are excellent. If you study the reviews of the masters, they are all only positive. Purchased for woodworking. Works great on plastic too. Thickness – 4 mm. The shape is straight. Quickly and efficiently cuts wood of any species. Rotation speed – 12200 rpm. It is not recommended to exceed it.

Purchase price – 385 rubles.

Vira Rage cutting wheel, 125*22 mm

Advantages:

• long service life;
• Suitable for all modern standard angle grinders;
• reliability;
• wear resistance;
• versatility;
• strength;
• makes a clear and even cut;
• efficiency.

Flaws:

• not found.

Vira Rage, 115*22 mm

The consumable is of Chinese origin, however, its price-quality ratio is excellent. It is extremely popular among domestic builders. Purchased for cutting wood and plastic. It goes on sale in individual packaging. The marriage does not come across. The product will serve faithfully for a long time with proper use. He will quickly and efficiently complete the tasks assigned to him. Disc thickness – 0.4 cm. Release form – straight. Belongs to the abrasive type.

Retailers offer products at a price of 327 rubles per unit.

cutting wheel Vira Rage, 115*22 mm

Advantages:

• efficiency;
• performance;
• versatility;
• wear resistance;
• durability;
• safety;
• reliability.

Flaws:

• none.

Which ones are better

The ideal cutting wheel is:

• Bakelite bonded product with a reinforcing element.
• Type of abrasive: for ferrous metals - simple electrocorundum, for stainless steel products - white electrocorundum.
• The average thickness of a cutting disc for metal is 1.6-2 mm.
• The universal outer diameter for a metal circle for household use is 125 mm.
• For cutting steel structures, it is better to use discs with a fine fraction of abrasive particles.

Diamond cutting

• For dry cutting of structures made of concrete, granite, brick, the ideal consumable tool would be a segmented diamond disc with an outer diameter of 230 mm and a diamond-bearing layer width of 2.5-3 mm.
• To organize furrows for the purpose of further laying utilities, it is better to choose a segmented circle with a diamond-bearing layer of 3.5 mm and a diameter of 350 mm.
• For working with ceramic tiles and marble, a solid diamond-coated cutting wheel is suitable. This cutting method requires mandatory cooling with water.
• For cutting reinforced concrete structures, it is better to use a diamond turbo disc.

Wood cutting wheel

• The best consumable tools for cutting wooden products are carbide discs reinforced with soldering with a high content of tungsten or cobalt carbides.
• The typical thickness of a wood disc is 3.2 mm.
• The universal size of the outer diameter is 130-250 mm.
• The ideal number of teeth for a cross cut is 80-90 cutters, for a longitudinal cut - no more than 60 cutters.
• The optimal angle of inclination of the teeth: for longitudinal cutting - 15-200, for cross cutting - 5-150.

The optimal cutting speed is selected depending on the type of wood:

• for soft rocks – from 50 to 90 m/s;
• for hard rocks – from 50 to 80 m/s;
• joinery wood – 60-80 m/s;
• exotic breeds - 80-85 m/s.

Rating of quality products from 10 rubles

Metabo, 125*1*22 mm

The cutting attachment is produced in the Celestial Empire. Stainless steel is used in production. Will handle high-alloy steels: acid-resistant, heat-resistant and stainless steel. Bore diameter – 22.2 mm, outer diameter – 125 mm. To prevent the circle from splitting or scattering during operation, the manufacturer uses a special bakelite bond in the manufacture of products, which reduces the possibility of injury to nothing. When choosing a product, you need to pay special attention to the speed of rotation to prevent destruction of the disk. The maximum rotation speed is 12250 rpm. Type – abrasive, shape – straight. The reviews are only positive.

You can purchase the product for 50 rubles.

Metabo cutting wheel, 125*1*22 mm

Advantages:

• reliability;
• wear resistance;
• practicality;
• long service life;
• safety.

Flaws:

• not identified.

Dexter, 125*1*22 mm

The product from the Polish manufacturer is very popular among domestic craftsmen. Available in stainless steel. Suitable for working with high-alloy heat-resistant, acid-resistant steels and stainless steel. Suitable for all modern angle grinders. The maximum permissible rotation speed is 12250 rpm. Straight abrasive nozzle. The quality of the product is controlled by the manufacturer at every stage of production.

The average cost is 38 rubles.

Dexter cutting wheel, 125*1*22 mm

Advantages:

• performance;
• quality;
• strength;
• safety;
• wear resistance;
• value for money.

Flaws:

• none.

Dexter, 125*1.6*22 mm

The product is manufactured by a Polish company. There were no complaints about quality. Defects are not found on sale. It’s difficult to classify them as new. For a long time it has been the most sold product in this segment. Quantity per package – 1 piece. Will strengthen interaction with acid-resistant and heat-resistant steel, as well as stainless steel. The main component is aluminum oxide. Outer diameter – 12.5 cm. Suitable for all modern grinding machines. Disk of increased thickness – 1.6 mm, straight shape. Belongs to the category of abrasive. You can purchase it at specialized retail outlets or place an order in an online store.

Purchase price – 46 rubles.

Dexter cutting wheel, 125*1.6*22 mm

Advantages:

• strength;
• wear resistance;
• performance;
• reliability.

Flaws:

• not installed.

Bosch, 125*1*22.23 mm

The circle can easily and simply cope with metal structures. The product is straight-shaped, 1 mm thick. Outer diameter – 12.5 cm, landing – 22.23 mm. Can be purchased for any modern grinder. The surface is made of stainless steel. Rotation speed – 12250 rpm. Produced at Chinese production facilities. The reviews are only positive.

The purchase price is 70 rubles.

Bosch cutting wheel, 125*1*22.23 mm

Advantages:

• strength of the raw materials used;
• durability;
• practicality;
• reliability;
• safety.

Flaws:

• not found.

Dexter, 125*1.6*22 mm

A Polish manufacturer has launched the production of cutting discs for aluminum. They are distinguished by reliability, strength and durability. Completely exhaust the established working resource. Rotation speed – 12250 rpm. Belongs to the specialized category. Used to work with products made of aluminum and its alloys. The main material of manufacture is aluminum oxide. There are practically no foreign impurities, which significantly affects the quality of cutting. Can be used with any grinder with a bore diameter of 22.2 millimeters (standard parameters). To adapt a consumable to an outdated tool, you need to use the services of adapter rings. Type – abrasive, shape – straight. The reviews are only positive. Sold in individual packaging.

The average cost is 55 rubles.

Dexter cutting wheel, 125*1.6*22 mm

Advantages:

• smooth and clean cut;
• the presence of a bakelite binder helps reduce the level of temperature effects on the metal surface;
• interacts well with viscous materials;
• does not break;
• reliability;
• strength;
• safety.

Flaws:

• not identified.

Exploitation

Working with abrasive cutting equipment involves high rotation speeds and requires compliance with safety measures. Before starting work, read the safety precautions specified by the manufacturer.

• Minors and people in a state of intoxication are not allowed to work with cutting devices. The presence of children and animals is not allowed near the work site.
• Carry out cutting work away from flammable materials.
• Use cutting discs only for their intended purpose.
• Before starting the operation, inspect the disc; do not use consumable tools with signs of damage (chips, cracks).
• Do not use expired wheels.
• Follow the rules for storing consumable tools.
• When working with power tools, use personal protective equipment.

Operating rules:

• Before starting cutting work, securely secure the wheel in the power tool.
• Use a tool that has a protective casing that can withstand the impact of a wheel break and catch any splinters.
• When cutting metal, secure the metal structure on only one side; this will help prevent excessive heating and deformation of the material, and, as a result, jamming of the abrasive disc.
• When cutting, keep the wheel straight, applying only radial pressure.
• If intense sparking occurs, cutting work should be stopped for 10-15 seconds, after the specified time has elapsed, continue working at a lower cutting speed.

Installing a cutting wheel into an angle grinder:

• Unplug the power tool.
• Using the special button, lock the rotation shaft.
• Install the disk into the seat.
• Tighten the lock nut and secure with a wrench.
• Before starting cutting work, check the functionality of the disc for 1 minute.

Manufacturers of cutting wheels

Bosch

The company occupies a leading position in the market of power tools and related products. The range includes abrasive cutting discs for wood, metal and stone, diamond wheels and universal models.

The quality of the company's products meets international quality standards.

Dremel

American brand products are sold in more than 60 countries around the world. The company's product range includes not only high-quality power tools, but also a wide selection of attachments.

Dremel produces cutting wheels for cutting wood, plastic, and metal. Diamond-coated discs can handle concrete, ceramics, marble, and porcelain.

FIT

The Canadian company specializes in the production of tools for household and professional use. The product range includes a wide selection of cutting disc models for metal and stone for household power tools.

FUBAG

The main direction of the German company is the production of high-quality professional equipment for repair and construction work.

The brand's production bases are located in Germany and Switzerland, the company's operating experience is more than 40 years. The catalog offers the consumer high-quality diamond blades for wet and dry cutting.

Husqvarna

Consumable tools from a Swiss manufacturer are characterized by high performance and durability. The company's product range includes a large selection of cutting diamond blades, as well as abrasive products for cutting metal.

The disadvantage of the Husqvarna brand is its rather high cost.

Makita

The company offers a large range of high-quality abrasive discs and segmented diamond-coated wheels. In the catalog you can find both budget models and products belonging to the middle and high price categories.

Master

The company has been supplying construction equipment for 15 years. The product catalog includes consumable tools for cutting metal and wood.

MESSER

The company's catalog includes many models of consumable tools with a wide range of applications:

• segmented diamond blades for cutting concrete and asphalt;
• circles with a continuous edge for cutting ceramic products, marble, porcelain stoneware;
• carbide blades for cutting high carbon steel;
• turbo rims.

Metabo

The German brand specializes in the production of professional power tools and cutting equipment.

The range of consumable tools includes a wide variety of abrasive and diamond discs for angle grinders, as well as saw wheels for wood.

Rating of mid-price segment products

Dexter 230*1.9*22 mm

The cutting wheel is produced by a Polish manufacturer, which is responsible for the quality and reliability of its products. It is considered a specialized device. Quickly and efficiently cuts workpieces made of aluminum and aluminum-based alloys. Compares favorably with cutting wheels for working with ferrous metals. Made from aluminum oxide. The content of foreign impurities is minimal. Purchased for installation on any modern type angle grinder. If there is a need to use an old tool, then you can install the attachments on adapter rings. Outer diameter – 230 millimeters, seat – 22.2 millimeters. The maximum set rotation speed is 6650 rpm. You should not exceed it. The circle belongs to the category of abrasive. Available in straight form. It is extremely popular among domestic builders.

The average cost is 122 rubles.

cutting wheel Dexter 230*1.9*22 mm

Advantages:

• performance;
• functionality;
• ease of use;
• reliability;
• durability;
• safety;
• makes a clean and even cut;
• handles sticky surfaces easily and simply, while remaining valuable and undamaged.

Flaws:

• not found.

Norton, type 41, 230*2.5*22.2 mm

The metal nozzle is manufactured at a Polish plant. Belongs to the cutting category. Sold in individual packaging. You can purchase it in specialized stores or place an order online on the Internet. Thickness – 0.25 cm, outer diameter – 23 cm. Purchased for cutting metal and stainless steel products. Will cope with the task quickly and efficiently. A distinctive feature is high performance. It is advisable to use the maximum permissible speed - 6650 rpm. The abrasive is based on electrocorundum and bakelite bond. The shape of the nozzle is straight.

Purchase price – 215 rubles.

Norton cutting wheel, type 41, 230*2.5*22.2 mm

Advantages:

• value for money;
• versatility;
• reliability;
• practicality;
• functionality;
• ease of storage and transportation;
• long service life;
• safety.

Flaws:

• not found.

Bosch, 125*3*22.23 mm

A special cutting consumable for angle grinders is produced in the Middle Kingdom. Designed for cutting stone. It is distinguished by high quality and long service life. Suitable for all standard angle grinders. Purchased for dry cutting of natural stone, granite, ceramic tiles and other hard surfaces. The mounting hole is standard - 22.2 millimeters. The nozzle has a diameter of 12.5 cm and reaches a speed of up to 12,250 rpm. The shape of the product is straight. There is a segmented cutting edge. The thickness of the cutting layer is 1 cm.

Durable silicon carbide is used to make the cutting surface. The significant height of the contact surface makes it possible to operate the equipment for quite a long time, in compliance with certain recommendations from the manufacturer. The product is of the abrasive type. Sold in any specialized store. Defects are not found on sale. Packaging is durable and individual.

The average cost is 101 rubles.

Bosch cutting wheel, 125*3*22.23 mm

Advantages:

• quickly and efficiently cope with reinforced concrete and stone;
• clean cut;
• practicality;
• functionality;
• quality of materials used;
• high rotation speed;
• reliability;
• durability.

Flaws:

• not identified.

Hikoki, A-300*2.6*25.4 mm

The straight abrasive cutting disc is produced at Chinese production facilities. Designed for cutting metal. There were no complaints about the strength and quality of the cut. It is in great demand among domestic craftsmen. Demonstrated its effectiveness and performance. With proper use, it will last a long time, professionally performing the assigned tasks. The product can be found at any specialized retail outlet or ordered online in an online store.

Purchase price – 251 rubles.

Hikoki cutting wheel, A-300*2.6*25.4 mm

Advantages:

• strength;
• functionality;
• wear resistance;
• smooth and clean cut;
• safety;
• ease of operation.

Flaws:

• none.

Hilti AC/D-SP, 230*2.5 mm

The company has been on the market for a long time and has proven itself on the positive side. The products produced cost a lot of money, but the quality is also high. There are no defects on store shelves. Serves faithfully for many years with active use. The cutting discs produced are also extremely popular. They are purchased by craftsmen for plumbing, installation, construction and repair work. Often purchased in cases where you need to carry out abrasive cutting of metal parts or deal with stainless steel or other durable alloys.

Installed on angle grinders in which the shaft rotation speed does not exceed 6650 rpm. The nozzle is 23 cm in diameter and 2.5 mm thick. The diameter of the seat is 22.2 mm. Products from a domestic manufacturer. The reviews are only positive.

Retailers are asking 194 rubles for their products.

cutting wheel Hilti AC/D-SP, 230*2.5 mm

Advantages:

• straight shape;
• ease of use;
• quality factor;
• strength;
• quality of the material used;
• long service life;
• defective products are not found;
• reliability;
• functionality.

Flaws:

• not installed.