What is a bonded abrasive?

Main Components Of Resinoid Bonded Abrasives

Abrasive Grains

Abrasive grains, sometimes referred to as grit, are particles of man-made compounds. The chemical structure of the grains determines the physical properties such as the shape and sharpness of each particle along with its hardness and friability (the propensity to break down). Common grain types used in making bonded abrasives include:

A – Aluminum Oxide – A tough blocky shaped grain used for cutting metals and other high tensile strength materials without excessive fracturing

C – Silicon Carbide – A very hard and very sharp abrasive suited for non-metallic materials such as concrete

Z – Zirconium – A very fine, dense crystalline grain which can be used for rugged stock removal

SG – Ceramic – A unique ceramic aluminum oxide that is two or three times tougher than standard aluminum oxide

Bonding Agent

The bonding agent that holds the grains together determines the resistance of the wheel.

Reinforcement

The reinforcement material provides strength to operate the abrasive product at the marked maximum RPMs and to withstand lateral pressure that is applied during use. This critical element, unseen to the naked eye, determines the structural strength of the product.

Combining The Components

During the manufacturing process, these three components are combined to form an abrasive tool. The grains and bonding agents are measured, combined, and then pressed in an automated hydraulic press. The items are then cured in temperature controlled ovens.

As a wheel is grinding and/or cutting, some situations may occur with the application such as glazing or loading. Here is a description of each of these occurrences and some possible solutions.

This is an example of a label that can be found on United Abrasives’ wheels. We feel it is important to include as much information as possible on our labels so the end user has the pertinent information needed to operate the wheel. All of our labels are baked on the wheels during the manufacturing process so the label remains intact throughout the life of the wheel.

The following chart is an example of the ANSI standard marking system for identifying grinding wheels and other bonded abrasives.

Bonded abrasive wheels have different configurations depending upon the tool the wheel is used on and the desired end result. Below are the configurations that a wheel can have:

This chart should be used as a reference to match wheel to application. Following these steps will help you utilize this chart to choose the wheel that will best suit your needs.

1. Select the material you will be using based upon the choices at the top of the chart.

2. Determine what you want to do to this material?

    • Are you cutting?

    • Are you grinding?

    • Are you cutting and grinding?

    • Are you finishing?

3. What tools do you have available?

4. Once you have followed these steps, select the wheel that will best suit your needs and turn to that page to see more specifications on that product.