How to Choose the Right Angle Grinder Disc
Cutting discs, grinding discs, flap discs, and diamond blades all fit angle grinders, but they do very different jobs. Choosing the wrong type reduces cutting speed, wastes material, and creates a safety risk. Here is a straightforward guide to matching the disc to the task.
Cutting Discs (Cut-Off Wheels)
Cutting discs are thin — typically 1mm to 1.6mm thick — and are designed for slicing through steel, stainless steel, and metal sections. The thin profile minimises material loss and keeps cuts clean. They are not designed for side-grinding; putting lateral pressure on a cutting disc can cause it to shatter. Our 4.5 inch discs at £0.75 and 5 inch discs at £0.85 are sold in boxes of 600, suitable for sustained fabrication or site cutting work.
Flap Discs
Flap discs consist of overlapping abrasive flaps bonded to a backing plate. They are used for grinding and blending: removing weld spatter, shaping metal edges, smoothing rough cuts, and preparing surfaces for painting or coating. Our flap discs come in 40, 60, and 80 grit in boxes of 200 at £1.50 each. Choose lower grit (40) for aggressive metal removal, higher grit (80) for finer finishing. Flap discs last considerably longer than grinding wheels in most blending applications.
Diamond Blades
Diamond blades are used for cutting masonry — concrete, brick, block, stone, granite, and paving. They cannot be used for metal cutting. Diamond segment blades are rated to specific RPMs and must be matched to the tool speed. Our range covers 9 inch through 16 inch sizes, conforming to EN 13236. The 9 inch blade at £25 is suitable for hand-held angle grinders; the 12, 14 and 16 inch blades are for floor saws, table saws, and petrol-powered disc cutters.
Reciprocating Saw Blades
For demolition, pipe cutting, and work in confined spaces where an angle grinder won't fit, reciprocating saw blades offer a flexible alternative. Our 150mm blades are sold in packs of 5 at £7.50 per pack, 100 packs per box. High-quality hardened steel construction for general demolition, plumbing, and electrical rough-in work.
Matching Disc Size to Machine
- 4.5 inch (115mm) — standard small angle grinder
- 5 inch (125mm) — mid-size angle grinder
- 9 inch (230mm) — large angle grinder
- 12–16 inch — floor saws and petrol disc cutters only
Always check the disc's maximum RPM rating against your grinder's no-load speed. The disc's RPM must meet or exceed the tool's rating. Never use a disc rated below the tool's no-load speed.
Buying at Trade Volume
Our cutting discs are sold in boxes of 600 — the format used by steel fabricators, groundwork contractors, and tool hire depots. Free delivery on orders over £200 to any address in England. For regular supply, a trade account gives at least 10% off list. Call 07867 476304 for volume pricing.
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