The Different Shapes Of Flap Disc

Flap discs are essential abrasives for metal fabrication, and they consist of many layered, overlapping sections of abrasive material. These flaps are formed from a polycotton or polyester backing material to which abrasive particles adhere, which are then layered and bonded to a backing sheet.

Flap discs come in two shapes: conical or flat.

1. Conical shaped flap discs

The conical shape is ideal for working on the edges of flaps, and the smaller contact area helps increase grinding pressure for higher material removal rates. The conical discs are shaped at a perfect angle, therefore also reducing the chances of the angle grinder's hub hitting and damaging the workpiece.

2. Flat shaped flap discs

When it comes to operations that require lower grinding pressure and more control, you should choose the flat shape of the flap discs. Flat shaped flap discs are ideal for blending and finishing on flat and outer edges. However, since the hub of a grinder using flat shaped flap discs usually protrudes more than a round disc, increasing the likelihood of hitting your component with it, you will need to be aware of this when using it.

Flap discs are made of different materials, generally speaking, flap discs are made of plastic, nylon and fiberglass.

1. Flap discs made of plastic or nylon

The backing material for this type of flap disc gives them a degree of flexibility that helps reduce the level of vibration generated, making them ideal for use on uneven surfaces. Also, some plastic back panels are easy to trim and can be color coded for easy identification.

2. Flap discs made of fiberglass

Fiberglass is strong and lightweight and is the most commonly used material for support plates for flap discs. Its rigidity and shock-absorbing properties help operators better control them.

We now know that flap discs are made of different materials, and they also come in different shapes. As for which kind of flap discs you should choose, it depends on your actual application.