Abrasives are designed to withstand demanding applications, but how they are handled and stored before use can have a major impact on safety, product life and performance.
Bonded abrasive wheels can be damaged by improper handling, impacts or poor storage conditions, while coated abrasives can be affected by changes in temperature and humidity. Following a few basic storage practices can help protect your abrasive products and ensure they perform as intended when it’s time to put them to work.
Handling & Storing Bonded Abrasives
Bonded abrasive wheels are breakable and should always be handled with care. Even damage that isn’t immediately obvious can affect the integrity of a wheel.
- Handle wheels carefully.
- Avoid dropping, bumping or rolling abrasive wheels.
- Wheels that cannot be safely carried by hand should be transported using a cart, truck or other suitable equipment that provides proper support and protection.
- Use appropriate storage.
- Store bonded abrasives on suitable racks or in bins, drawers or boxes designed to protect them from accidental damage.
- Storage areas should also be positioned away from passing vehicles, cranes, material-handling equipment and sources of excessive vibration.
- Keep them dry and protected from temperature extremes.
- Bonded abrasives should be stored in a dry location that is not subject to significant temperature fluctuations. Excessive humidity and changing temperatures can affect certain bonding systems and potentially impact wheel performance.
The goal is simple: protect the wheel from the time it enters your facility until the time it reaches the machine.
Proper Storage of Coated Abrasives
Temperature and humidity are especially important when storing coated abrasives. Paper, cloth, film and other backing materials can respond to environmental changes, potentially affecting the shape, flexibility and performance of the product.
For best results, maintain a stockroom environment of approximately 35–50% relative humidity and 60–80°F.
Keep cartons away from damp or cold walls and floors where packaging may absorb moisture, and avoid storing coated abrasives near heaters or other heat sources. Whenever possible, products should remain in their original packaging until needed. This provides additional protection while also making products easier to identify, handle and stack.
Special Considerations for Flap Wheels and Fiber Discs
Some abrasive products require additional care after being removed from their original packaging.
Flap wheels should be spread out on a clean shelf and stored face down. They should never be stored resting on their edge, which can affect their shape.
Fiber discs removed from their original packaging should be placed in a suitable disc holder and kept under pressure. Proper storage helps prevent the discs from curling or becoming distorted before use.
A Little Care Goes a Long Way
Proper abrasive storage isn't complicated, but it can make a meaningful difference. Protecting abrasives from impact, moisture, temperature extremes, vibration and improper positioning helps maintain product condition and supports consistent performance.
Just as important, good storage practices help ensure that the abrasive reaching your machine is in the condition it was designed to be in.
Safe storage. Better performance. Better results.
For additional information on proper handling, storage and use of KLINGSPOR abrasive products, refer to the Safety Guide accompanying the product or contact your local KLINGSPOR Factory Sales Representative.