Flap Wheels
Abrasive flap wheels are the primary tool for surface preparation and graining on metal tubes. By utilizing multiple overlapping abrasive cloth flaps radiating from a central core, they provide a consistent finish and high conformability to curved surfaces.
Grit Range & Performance
Available in a wide spectrum from 60 to 1200 grit, these wheels cover the entire pre-finishing cycle:
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Coarse (60 – 120): Used for rapid stock removal, leveling weld seams, and removing deep mill scale.
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Medium (180 – 400): The standard range for “satin” or “hairline” finishes. This stage removes the scratches from coarse grits and prepares the tube for polishing.
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Fine (600 – 1200): Ultra-fine preparation steps. These grits create a smooth, pre-mirror surface, significantly reducing the time required when moving to sisal or cotton buffs.
Key Advantages
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Self-Sharpening: As the flaps wear down, fresh abrasive grain is constantly exposed, ensuring a uniform cut rate throughout the life of the wheel.
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Cool Running: The flap construction allows for air circulation, which prevents the metal from discoloring or warping due to friction heat.
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Flexibility: Unlike rigid grinding wheels, flap wheels slightly “give” under pressure, allowing them to follow the natural contours of the tube without creating flat spots.
Application Tip: For a seamless transition to a mirror finish, work sequentially through the grits (e.g., 120 → 220 → 400 → 600). Skipping too many steps will leave deep “ghost” scratches that even a 1200 grit wheel cannot easily hide.
