[ Fabrication ]
[ Fabrication ]
Cutting and grinding wheels that are labeled as contaminantfree or INOX boast a special formulation containing additives to ensure that they contain less than 0.1 % of certain elements , such as iron , sulfur and chlorine .
edges and surfaces , which is crucial for achieving precise dimensions and preparing the material for further finishing . Bonded grinding wheels are ideal for removing large amounts of material quickly . Their advanced bond formulation prevents uneven edge wear and chipping , enhancing both safety and longevity . The Metalynx 2.0 wheels from Weiler are designed with fiberglass cutback from the edge for aggressive grinding right out of the box . They also feature a QR code on each wheel so users can conveniently access crucial safety information where and when they need it . Flap discs are another abrasives option for grinding stainless steel . These discs combine grinding and finishing in a single step , eliminating the need for frequent product changeovers . This dual functionality saves time and money , making flap discs particularly valuable for less experienced users . Look for flap discs designed with different flap
Look for wheels labeled with the INOX designation to make sure they are designed for use with stainless steel . In addition , certain wheels , like Metalynx INOX 2.0 wheels from Weiler Abrasives , are engineered to minimize heat buildup to prevent the dreaded discoloration and maintain the integrity of the stainless steel . configurations for higher material removal rates , a smoother feeling and longer product life . QUICK TIPS : When using bonded grinding wheels , it ’ s crucial to start with a pullback motion rather than a push to reduce the risk of gouging the material . Let the wheel ’ s design facilitate material removal without applying excessive force . When using flap discs , maintain a smooth , consistent motion and use the correct angle and minimal pressure to optimize the performance and lifespan of the discs .
Finishing stainless steel : Achieving the perfect finish Finishing stainless steel to meet specific aesthetic and functional requirements is a meticulous process and a multistep journey . No one product does it all when it comes to finishing stainless steel . For example , it is common to start with a bonded abrasive for heavy stock removal , move to a flap disc to blend , and then use a resin-fiber disc to blend the parent material to the weld before finally ending with a polishing or buffing disc . It ’ s essential to start with the right abrasive based on the required finish , be it a non-directional , No . 4 finish or a mirror polish . Skipping steps in this process may save time initially , but it often leads to costly rework . Look for wheels that have an additional coating layer , which can help reduce heat buildup . This helps achieve a smoother finish and reduces the need for rework . QUICK TIP : Keep the wheel moving in a consistent pattern to avoid heat concentration and potential damage to the workpiece .
When finishing stainless steel , keep the wheel moving in a consistent pattern to avoid heat concentration and potential damage to the workpiece .
Cleaning stainless steel : Maintaining surface integrity Cleaning stainless steel surfaces and welds is essential to maintaining the integrity and appearance of the material . Wire brushes equipped with stainless steel wires effectively remove contaminants without damaging the base material . Look for a brush designed to minimize premature wire failure to ensure durability and longevity . Brushes that deliver consistent results contribute to overall operational efficiency . QUICK TIP : Brushes should always be operated at the highest practical speed with the lightest amount of pressure by the user . This allows the tips of the wires to do the work as the brush is designed .
Choosing products to maximize results with stainless steel New products designed specifically for stainless steel can help improve productivity and finish quality when working with the material — and can be game-changers in stainless steel fabrication . These products address the unique challenges posed by stainless steel and offer solutions that enhance efficiency , safety and quality across cutting , grinding and finishing applications . They can also help users achieve the best possible results with minimal effort and maximum safety . In addition to choosing a product designed for the specific application and the required finish , it ’ s also important to follow the steps of the finishing process and understand how stainless steel reacts . This will help reduce rework , save time and money , and get the best results with stainless steel .
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