grinding wheel type

The type of the wheel is marked as an ISO number and signifies the wheel’s shape. For example, ISO Type 52 is a spindle-mounted wheel.

The size of the grinding wheel is marked as dimensions in mm. For example, 100x6x16mm. This represents the wheel’s diameter x thickness x hole size.

The specification of the grinding wheel is marked as a series of letters and numbers. For example, WA 60 K 7 V. This represents the type of abrasive material, the grit size, the grade, the structure, and the bond type. A general guide to specification marking can be seen in the table here:

The range of material markings, grit sizes, grades, structures and bonds depends on the product and the manufacturer, but the table above gives a general outline of common markings seen on abrasive wheels.

The maximum operating speed grinding wheel

is marked on every large grinding wheel (above 80mm in diameter) in two ways:

1. The peripheral surface speed, given in metres per second. For example, 80m/s.
2. The rotational speed, given in revolutions per minute. For example, 8500rpm.

For smaller grinding wheels (below 80mm in diameter), the maximum operating speed is provided on a separate notice which must be stored alongside the wheel.

For high speeds, colour-coded stripes are also marked across the centre of the wheel. The colours are:

• 50m/s – Blue
• 60m/s – Yellow
• 80m/s – Red
• 100m/s – Green
• 125m/s – Blue/Yellow

The restrictions for use are marked on the grinding wheel using a code and, in some cases, a corresponding graphic. The markings used to show restrictions are as follows:

• The manufacturer’s trademark/name.
• The test record number, indicates it meets the standards for safety.
• The expiry date if it’s an organic bonded wheel (this will be 3 years from the date of manufacture).
• A traceable code number, indicates the source and manufacturing details of the wheel.
• A mounting arrow, indicating the heaviest point of the wheel. The arrow should point downwards when the wheel is mounted.