When it comes to getting that perfect finish on your projects, and prolonging the life of your abrasives, understanding how to handle and store your grinding wheels properly can make all the difference. So, let's get our safety glasses on and explore the dos and don'ts of grinding wheel storage and handling!
Why is proper grinding wheel handling important?
Grinding wheels are made from abrasive materials that can wear down over time. Proper handling ensures their structural integrity, making them more effective and safe to use. Grinding wheels are fragile and easily be chipped, cracked, or broken. Norton Abrasives grinding wheels are the highest quality grinding wheels available, and proper handling and storage can ensure their long life and optimal performance.
Basic grinding wheel handling tips:
- First things first, always wear protective gear such as safety gloves and safety glasses or goggles. Safety should always be our top priority!
- Before mounting a grinding wheel onto your machine, inspect it for any visible signs of damage or wear. Carefully inspect grinding wheels when unpacking a shipment as they are unpacked, and prior to each use. Discard any wheels that show signs of damage. Ring test each wheel (primarily applicable to vitrified products) 4 inches and larger before mounting. Run wheels in a protected area, with the machine guard in place, for at least one minute before grinding to check for non-visible damage.
- Use the proper tools, like flanges and mounting hardware, to securely attach the grinding wheel to the machine. Loose wheels can be dangerous.
ANSI B7.1 grinding wheel handling RecomMendations:
- Be careful when handing grinding wheels to prevent dropping or bumping. If a grinding wheel is dropped or suspected of being damaged, it shall not be mounted. Pay special attention to avoid damage to the arbor hole and inspect the arbor hole to ensure it is free from damage prior to each use.
- Do not roll wheels (hoop fashion).
- Use trucks or other suitable conveyances which provide support and protection in transporting all wheels which cannot be carried by hand.
- When storing grinding wheels, place the wheels on a shelf or rack or in bins, boxes, or drawers. Wheels shipped on pallets may remain stored on pallets until ready for use.
grinding wheel Storage do's And DoN'ts
- Grinding wheels should be stored in an area free from exposure to water or other solvents.
- Store grinding wheels in areas free from any temperature or humidity condition that causes condensation on the wheels.
- Grinding wheels should never be exposed to freezing temperatures or extreme variations in temperature. Store grinding wheels in a cool, dry environment.
- Avoid piling up grinding wheels on top of each other. Instead, use a rack or separate them with protective materials to prevent accidental damage.
Ask the Experts At A&M Industrial
Proper handling and storage not only prolongs the life of your abrasives, but also ensure your team's safety during machining applications. Contact the A&M Industrial Material Handling Team for tips on proper grinding wheel storage, drum handling solutions, and high density storage solutions that optimize the space in your facility.
A&M Industrial carries a wide range of Norton Abrasives. For assistance choosing the right abrasive solution for your application, please contact the A&M Industrial Metalworking Team.
