Non-Woven Discs

Ensure smooth and efficient metalworking and surface preparation with non-woven discs. Choose from a variety of durable, high-performance options in different grit grades and diameters. At Cromwell, we offer an extensive selection of non-woven discs from top brands, including 3M™, SIA Abrasives®, Norton®, and Cromwell's exclusive brands York® and Kennedy®. Find more details and helpful links below to help you shop our range.

What are non-woven discs?

Non-woven discs are abrasive tools made from synthetic fibres and abrasive grains, bonded together in an open-web structure. Unlike coated abrasive discs with paper backings, non-woven discs offer flexibility and are clog-resistant, allowing for smoother, consistent finishes and excellent performance in surface conditioning applications. The quick-change system allows one to perform fast and efficient work in demanding conditions.

When are non-woven discs used?

Non-woven discs are versatile and highly effective for surface preparation, blending, and finishing. Common applications include deburring, rust removal, and polishing. They can be used for both light finishing and more aggressive cleaning tasks, depending on the grit grade and abrasive material.

Considerations when choosing non-woven discs

** Grit grade ** is an important factor to consider when choosing non-woven discs, as it directly affects the finish and level of material removal. Selecting the appropriate grit grade ensures optimal results and prolongs the disc's lifespan. Grit size affects the roughness and finish of the abrasive. Choose the grit according to the finish you need:
• Extra Coarse grade provides aggressive cutting power, making it ideal for heavy material removal and surface preparation tasks.
• Coarse grit is suitable for blending and light deburring, offering a balance between cutting power and control.
• Medium grit is commonly used for general-purpose applications, providing an even finish and smooth blending.
• Fine grit is designed for surface finishing, offering a delicate touch to create a smooth, refined finish.
• Very Fine grit is perfect for polishing and final finishing, achieving an exceptionally smooth surface while preserving detail.

** Abrasive Material ** is essential, as each type has unique characteristics:
• Aluminium Oxide a versatile and durable option, ideal for general-purpose applications on metals and wood, offering long life and consistent results.
• Ceramic known for its sharpness, it provides a fast cut-rate and is suitable for hard materials like glass, stone, and ceramic.
• Silicon Carbide a tough, heat-resistant material suited for high-pressure applications on hard metals, such as stainless steel, offering excellent durability and cutting power.

** Diameter ** - larger diameters provide a broader area for finishing but may have lower maximum rpm limitations.

** Attachment Type ** - Ensure that the attachment type (hook-and-loop or quick-change) is compatible with the chosen power tool and backing pad.

Abrasive Operations Safety Guidelines

These safety guidelines serve as general recommendations. Procedures may vary based on equipment, operational speeds, materials, and chosen abrasives.
** Safety Goggles ** - Always wear approved safety goggles or a full-face shield to protect against debris. Anyone in the vicinity should also wear protective eyewear with side shields.
** Safety gloves ** - wear the safety gloves designed to protect against all kinds of workplace hazards, including mechanical hazards and extreme heat
** Speed Compliance ** - adhere to the speed limitations indicated on the abrasive product and packaging. "MAX RPM" denotes the maximum allowed revolutions per minute. Never exceed this speed.
** Attachment Security ** ensure secure attachment of the disc to the tool with appropriate backing pads to prevent slippage or instability during use.

Consider safety measures for everyone in the workspace. Wearing appropriate protective equipment, including face shields, protective clothing, and respiratory protection may significantly reduce the risks. For more information on PPE, consult the Safety Experts Guides.

FAQs

• What are non-woven discs used for? *
  Common uses include cleaning, surface blending, rust removal, and finishing. These discs are highly versatile, making them suitable for various applications beyond these core tasks.
  
  
• How do you use a non-woven disc? *
  To use a non-woven disc, ensure you are wearing the correct PPE and have selected a compatible power tool and backing pad. Secure the workpiece before beginning, and confirm that both the power tool and backing pad align with the disc for safe, effective operation.