n auto manufacturer needed better performing ceramic quick-change discs. Previously, the ceramic disc’s material would fail to withstand the extreme grinding temperatures. The disc’s material also would become too hot and glaze over, causing the disc to shell and deteriorate. This meant frequent disc changeovers and poor efficiency.
The automaker turned to ARC Abrasives in Troy, Ohio, to conduct a performance test using Predator Resin Fiber Quick-Loks and the manufacturer’s current ceramic quick-change discs. Both discs were tested in a typical workday scenario using a right-angle grinder to deburr aluminum automotive door trim frames. The long life and aggressive cut of Predator Quick-Loks resulted in saving an hour of labor a day.
ARC Abrasives helped determine a solution for reducing quick-change disc changeover for operators while improving production efficiency. The solution also included an abrasive material that can withstand extreme grinding temperatures and doesn’t deteriorate while in use.
After studying their metalworking process, current material and challenges, ARC application engineers found Predator Resin Fiber Quick-Loks to be a suitable solution.
Operators tested Predator Resin Fiber Quick-Loks and their current ceramic quick-change discs in a typical application using a right-angle grinder to deburr aluminum automotive door frames. Each disc was tested in the exact same scenario using the same tool, metal work surface and grinding methods.
Multiple time tests were conducted to measure how many door frames each disc could complete and how long each disc would last while in use.
Operators were able to complete each door frame faster and more door frames with the Predator Quick-Loks. Operators stated the Predator Quick-Loks showed a noticeable improvement on stock removal and deburring and did not shell or deteriorate while in use.
On average, the life of one ceramic disc could complete half of one door frame while the life of one Predator disc could complete two door frames. The end of the test resulted with 18 ceramic discs completing nine door frames and 10 Predator discs completing 41 door frames.
Predator’s integrated grinding aids help lower grinding temperatures and minimizes loading, preventing the material from shelling or deterioration. The faster and more aggressive cuts from Predator’s self-sharpening grains resulted in 30 percent longer disc life. One Predator disc completes the work of four current ceramic discs, according to these tests.
The reduced disc changeover of Predator resulted in an overall 69 percent increase in production and efficiency, which ultimately saved over one hour of labor compared with previous methods and products.
ARC reconstructed its proprietary blend of Predator grains in resin fiber form, achieving top-tier gram removal ratios for aggressive grinding applications. Predator Resin Fiber material features self-sharpening grains that provide a long-lasting, aggressive cut and integrated grinding aids that reduce heat and grinding temperatures.
Extremely stiff, vulcanized fiber backing provides firm support for the grain, helping transfer pressure to the work piece for maximum stock removal.
800-888-4885, www.arcabrasives.com.