Buffing-up your metal fabrication

From optimising operations to enhancing employee wellbeing, non-woven abrasives are an effective alternative to sandpaper, fibre discs and other traditional abrasives. So what makes them different?
 

Made 3D to do more

Non-woven abrasives consist of a web of nylon fibres, bound by resin and infused with abrasive grain, to create a three-dimensional material. This offers cushioning, flexibility, durability – and a longer-lasting abrasive that’s particularly suitable for buffing-up, cleaning, finishing and smoothing surfaces.

Many traditional abrasives become clogged, and lose their abrasiveness as a result. But the unique 3D design of non-woven products stops this from happening. As the non-woven product is used, the nylon fibres and grains which are abrading the metal surface are worn away. This means the product is continually sharpening itself, so it goes on performing consistently throughout its lifespan.

The non-woven construction also means greater versatility. You can achieve different results simply by applying different amounts of pressure, instead of having to use several different products. For typical metal fabrication processes on steel, stainless steel, aluminium and other metals, non-woven products will do the whole job.

And even if there’s a less experienced operator wielding the disc, the non-woven product will still be effective. It’s easy to use, it’s less likely to break – and also more forgiving – than grinding, flap and fibre discs.
 

Preparation, preparation, preparation

If you’re a welder or fabricator, you know that preparation is critical. It’s the only way to be sure you have a chance of achieving the result you’re looking for on any metal surface.

Before you can even start to think about welding or applying new surface coatings, any paint, surface coatings, rust or scale have to be completely removed. That’s not only time-consuming but – depending on the severity – you may need to use several abrasive products. It may even demand chemical scale and paint removers.

However, preparation doesn’t have to be that slow or that difficult.

Switching to non-woven products can save time, reduce the effort, and minimise the number of steps required for professional metal surface preparation and conditioning.

One example of a non-woven product that does the job fast and effectively is Norton Blaze Rapid Strip. Its high-quality ceramic grains not only give it a distinctive bright orange colour, but also help to make it more effective – and a best-seller in a range of industries.
 

A new angle on abrasion

Commonly used with an angle grinder, and working best at a 10-15° angle, Norton Blaze Rapid Strip discs are designed to remove surface contaminants without causing damage to the metal underneath.

While traditional abrasives can scratch and damage the metal surface, these discs allow for increased pressure for a more aggressive abrasive action, without causing damage or gouging.

Norton Blaze Rapid Strip lets you quickly remove paint, rust, scale, dirt, weld spatter, and other surface contaminants. In fact, it cleans and conditions the surface at the same time, to minimise rework and reduce your use of different abrasive products for different jobs. So you can streamline your fabrication workflow and achieve a higher-quality finish.

The cushioned material of the disc conforms to uneven surfaces and contours, while the sharp ceramic grain makes it highly effective for light deburring and refining. Even with added pressure, Blaze Rapid Strip minimises heat generation and prevents thermal damage (bluing) to the workpiece.

Along with improved surface preparation, these discs are comfortable to use. So angle grinder operators can expect easier control and handling, which helps to prevent fatigue and strain when grinding for prolonged periods.

If you want your metal fabrication to keep pace with the fast-evolving industry, why not weave non-woven abrasives into your processes? It could mean greater efficiency, better finishes, and a fully buffed-up business.
 

For more information, contact your local ERIKS Service Centre, who will be happy to discuss your options.

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