High Performance Flap Discs for Aluminum Blending and Finishing

In Booth C-12160, Walter Surface Technologies (Windsor, CT) will introduce their new, innovative, and powerful abrasive for aluminum blending and finishing, the Enduro-Flex ALU™ flap disc, which was developed to overcome the challenges that come with working with heat-sensitive metals such as aluminum and other non-ferrous alloys. Aluminum’s high strength-to-weight ratio has long made it a smart choice due to the alloy’s lightweight properties, corrosion-resistance and other practical benefits. Yet when it comes to blending and finishing, there’s a different story for metalworkers on the shop floor. Enduro-Flex ALU flap discs are specially formulated to maximize performance and drive productivity. Iron-free, sulfur-free and chlorine-free, their superior zirconia alumina grain blend optimizes blending and finishing performance on virtually any aluminum surface. Backed by the highest removal rate in the industry and superior performance on non-ferrous alloys and heat-sensitive metals, they deliver a consistent finish without discoloration every time.

A special coating prevents load-up and glazing, key features that extend disc life and help cut shop floor costs. Metalworkers will also appreciate the proprietary Eco-Trim™ trimmable backing that can triple disc life for even greater savings. “The science and deep industry knowledge behind these flap discs is exceptional, with all of the same key features as the industry-leading Enduro-Flex flap disc,” explained Jonathan Douville, the senior product manager for Surfox, Finishing and Tooling. “Outstanding removal rates, longevity and resistance to glaze build-up make this the optimal choice for enhanced quality, safety and productivity when working with aluminum. Enduro-Flex ALU is simply a high performance, long lasting and productivity enhancing flap disc, the ultimate blending and finishing tool to help shops work better.”

These industry-optimized flap discs offer versatility and outstanding performance in automotive, aerospace, naval and other sector-specific applications. Enduro-Flex ALU discs are available in 4½ in, 5 in, 6 in and 7 in diameter sizes, with grit values of 40, 60 and 80 and rpm ratings that range from 8,600 to 13,300. Spend more time getting the job done and less time making trips to the tool crib with Enduro-Flex ALU, the longest lasting flap disc in the industry that removes more material than any competitive flap disc.

Also on display for demonstration will be the new and improved Surfox™ 305, a patented electrochemical MIG and TIG weld cleaning system that is now safer, faster, and more user-friendly. This system works fast to remove heat tint from the heat-affected zone of MIG, TIG, and spot welds on stainless steel and aluminum, making it the most versatile weld cleaning system to date. It cleans the surface without disrupting passivation on stainless steel or altering the surface finish, and its dynamic current control protects the surface against micro-pitting. With an integrated tank and flow-through system, the Surfox 305 delivers the electrolyte solution directly to the workpiece to minimize the risk of spillage or cross-contamination. “Resisting corrosion is a natural property of stainless steel due to the presence of the passive chromium oxide layer on the surface, but this layer is compromised from the heat caused by welding,” noted Douville. “The Surfox 305 can safely, quickly, and effectively remove the heat tints caused by welding to help restore the corrosion resistance of stainless steel.”

Designed to streamline weld cleaning operations and minimize downtime, the Surfox 305 offers unsurpassed ease of use and functionality. Its exclusive quick-change brush system allows users to change out accessories easily and its brushes are designed to clean large and hard-to-reach areas. Other industry-leading features of this system include an AC mode for cleaning and marking, a DC mode for polishing and etching, and a built-in vapor dispersion system. “This system combines the benefits of easy, efficient MIG, TIG, and spot cleaning on stainless steel and aluminum with multiple additional application such as electro polishing, marking and etching,” added Douville. “Whether they’re operating in small workshops or large production facilities, welders can improve productivity and cleaning results by using the Surfox 305.”

Walter Surface Technologies, 810 Day Hill Road, Windsor, CT 06095-1790, 860-298-1100, www.walter.com.