3M shapes Cubitron II bonded grinding wheel grains for productivity

3M has introduced a range of Cubitron II bonded abrasive grinding wheels on to the European market that employ precision shaped grain technology, which says the company, means they cut faster, last longer and require significantly less pressure than conventional grinding wheels. The technology was introduced with 3M's Cubitron II abrasive belts and discs already on the market.

3M explains that conventional ceramic grain produces irregular results by 'ploughing' through metal, causing a build-up of heat and resulting in a slower cutting rate and also directly affects product durability. By contrast, Cubitron II bonded abrasive grinding wheels feature precisely-shaped, uniformly-sized and vertically-oriented triangles of ceramic abrasive. These self-sharpening structures fracture as they wear, forming new super-sharp points and edges, which slice cleanly through metal rather than gouging or ploughing. The result is that the grinding wheel stays cool and lasts longer. An additional benefit is that Cubitron II products reduce the amount of pressure an operator needs to apply compared with traditional grinding wheels made from aluminium oxide, zirconia and ceramic grain. This means more material can be removed for the same amount of effort from the operator. 3M Cubitron II grinding wheels are suitable for use on a wide range of metals and for heavy weld removal and numerous other grinding applications in metal fabrication, shipbuilding, structural steel, oil and gas, and agricultural and construction machinery.