Flap Discs
Flap discs combine grinding and sanding in one tool — ideal for weld prep, metal shaping and surface cleaning. Designed for use with angle grinders, these discs are made from overlapping abrasive flaps that wear evenly to maintain cutting performance.
What Are Flap Discs Used For?
Flap discs are versatile sanding/grinding wheels used for:
- Weld Removal – Grind back and blend mild and stainless steel welds
- Rust & Paint Removal – Strip back coatings while preserving base metal
- Surface Smoothing – Shape metal parts or prep edges for painting
- Multi-Material Prep – Use on steel, alloy, plastic, wood and fibreglass
Used By:
- Fabricators, welders and engineers
- Builders and metalworkers doing finishing or rust repair
- Vehicle body repair and general fabrication
Choosing the Right Flap Disc
Key choices include disc grit, size and material type:
1. Grit Size
Coarse (40–60 grit) for heavy weld removal and stock shaping. Fine (80–120 grit) for smoothing and blending.
2. Abrasive Type
Zirconium is the standard — long life and fast cut on metal. Ceramic for tougher stainless steel jobs. Aluminium oxide for wood or paint removal.
3. Disc Size
Most use 115mm for standard grinders with 22.23mm bore. Also available in 125mm or 100mm.
Top Brands for Flap Discs
Pro abrasives trusted across trade and site use:
1. Bosch
Long-life zirconium flap discs for metalworking — excellent heat resistance and wear rate.
2. Makita
Reliable 115mm sanding discs for general grinder use — ideal for rust removal and prep.
3. Milwaukee
Cost-effective packs for rough grinding and filler shaping — great van stock option.
Flap Disc FAQs
What’s the difference between flap discs and grinding wheels?
Flap discs blend and smooth while grinding wheels remove more stock. Flaps wear down gradually, offering smoother results.
Can I use flap discs on stainless steel?
Yes — use zirconium or ceramic flap discs for stainless. Avoid aluminium oxide which may contaminate the surface.
Are flap discs suitable for wood?
Yes — but use finer grit and lower pressure. Ideal for stripping paint or shaping curves without gouging.
What speed are flap discs rated for?
Typically 13,000 RPM — always check the disc label and ensure it matches your grinder’s max speed.
