Fibre Discs

Ensure your abrasives and metalworking operations run smoothly with the use of fibre discs. Choose from a wide range of durable abrasive materials, grit levels, and sizes. Here at Cromwell, we have a wide range of fibre discs from leading brands such as 3M™, Sia Abrasives®, Norton®, and Cromwell's exclusive brands York® and Kennedy®.

What are fibre discs?

Fibre discs are a common abrasive consumable made of vulcanised fibre that has an abrasive grain attached using resin. These differ from coated discs which have a paper backing, offering more mechanical strength, and allowing for higher pressure to be applied.

When are fibre discs used?

Fibre discs are a great and powerful abrasive solution which, like most abrasive discs, needs to be used with a backing pad. They are great to be used for a range of applications ranging from rough machining, spatter cleaning, to finishing.

Considerations when choosing fibre discs

**Abrasive material** - the abrasive material is an important consideration when choosing a fibre disc with their different characteristics.
Aluminium Oxide a versatile, durable abrasive known for its hardness and long lifespan. Ideal for grinding, sanding, and polishing applications on both wood and metal.
Zirconia is known for its high material removal rate, it's commonly used in heavy grinding applications, especially on hard metals like stainless steel.
Ceramic is an advanced abrasive with exceptional hardness and heat resistance, making it ideal for high-performance applications on hard metals like carbon steel and stainless steel.
Silicon Carbide a sharp, brittle abrasive known for its excellent cutting action and ability to work on hard, non-metal materials like glass, stone, and ceramics.
Zirconia Alumina offering a balance of toughness, cutting efficiency, and heat resistance. Designed for high-pressure applications
Ceramic and Aluminium Oxide blend combines the cutting power and longevity of ceramic with the versatility of aluminium oxide. This blend is highly effective for high-pressure grinding on tough metals, offering both durability and a fast cut rate while maintaining a relatively smooth finish.

**Grit** - the grit is the roughness of the abrasive and should be considered when deciding the application the abrasive will be used for. The lower the grit, the rougher the abrasive, allowing for more stock removal per pass. Higher grit is finer, allowing for less stock removal but a finer finish.

**Diameter** - The larger the diameter, the more abrasive action can happen on a pass, but the disc has a lower maximum rpm.

**Bore** - The bore size must be compatible with the backing pad being used.

## Abrasive Operations Safety Guidelines
Safety guidelines provided here are indicative and not exhaustive. Procedures may vary based on equipment, operational speeds, materials in use, chosen abrasives, and other specific conditions.

**Safety Goggles**
Approved safety goggles or full-face shields are mandatory. Ensure that both operators and those in the vicinity wear protective eyewear with side shields.

**Speed Compliance**
Strictly adhere to speed limitations specified on the abrasive product, its packaging, and any accompanying documentation. "MAX RPM" signifies the maximum permissible revolutions per minute. Exceeding this rate is prohibited under any circumstance.

**Shank Security**
For abrasive tools or accessories with a shank, ensure the shank is firmly positioned in the chuck or collet with no more than 5mm of overhang. This precaution prevents dangerous instability during operation.

**Prevent Unsafe Conditions**
Do not permit operation under unsafe conditions. Examples include worn bearings, bent spindles, unbalanced machines, or misuse by the operator. These factors significantly increase the risk of abrasive failure and potential injury. With bonded abrasives, any hard impact may compromise the integrity of the product, so exercise caution and inspect for damage after any significant shock. Use bonded abrasives only within their expiration dates.

Take into consideration the risks for both operators and those nearby. To mitigate those risks, all individuals must wear appropriate safety gear, including safety goggles, face shields, protective clothing, and respiratory equipment. Check the recommendations on appropriate PPE from Safety Experts Guides

## FAQs
*What are fibre discs used for?*

Common applications for fibre discs include weld removal, spatter cleaning, bevelling, and slag removal. However, they are very versatile abrasive disc and can be used in other general applications other than the above.

*How do you use a fibre disc?*

Fibre discs are used just like all other abrasive discs, and require the user to be protected and a suitable backing pad to be used. Once you have fully prepared yourself with protective equipment, ensure your power tool and the backing pad are both compatible with each other. Finally ensure the workpiece is securely mounted before starting work on it.