Wire Wheels

Wire wheels are indispensable tools for various applications, particularly when it comes to removing rust, wire brushing, edge blending, and handling heavy-duty tasks. Designed to be used with an angle grinder, an angle grinder wire wheel consists of a circular assembly of wire bristles that are firmly attached to a central hub.

The primary purpose of wire wheels is to efficiently and effectively remove rust and other stubborn contaminants from various surfaces. Equipped with sturdy wire bristles, they scrape away the layers of rust, paint, or grime, revealing the clean metal underneath. This process not only restores the aesthetic appeal of the surface but also prepares it for further treatments like painting or refinishing.

Wire wheels are also ideal for wire brushing applications. The wire bristles, in combination with the rotating motion of the angle grinder, help in the removal of loose debris, weld spatter, or old coatings. By brushing away these unwanted materials, wire wheels ensure a smooth and clean surface, ready for subsequent processes or applications.

Moreover, wire wheels are highly effective in edge blending, which involves softening or blending the sharp edges of a material. The wire bristles of the wheel gently remove the sharpness, creating a smoother transition between surfaces. This process is particularly useful in applications such as metal fabrication, woodworking, or even automotive repairs.

When it comes to heavy-duty tasks, wire wheels are up to the challenge. With their robust construction and durable wire bristles, they can withstand rigorous use and tackle tough materials without compromising performance. Whether you need to remove thick layers of rust from metal surfaces or clean stubborn grime from concrete, wire wheels excel in handling demanding applications.

Types of Wire Wheels

  • Stringer Bead Wire Wheel: This type of wire wheel is characterized by tightly spaced wire bristles that are aligned in a straight pattern. It is commonly used for weld cleaning and blending, particularly in tight or hard-to-reach areas. The stringer bead wire wheel is effective in removing weld spatter and excess material while providing a consistent finish.

  • Crimped Wire Wheel: Crimped wire wheels feature wire bristles that have a wavy or crimped pattern. This design allows for increased flexibility and a gentler touch on the work surface. Crimped wire wheels are ideal for light to medium-duty tasks such as paint and rust removal, surface preparation, and general cleaning. They provide a balance between aggressiveness and finesse.

  • Expansion Joint Wire Wheel: This type of wire wheel consists of wire bristles that are densely packed and specially designed to fit into expansion joints. Expansion joint wire wheels are primarily used for cleaning and preparing expansion joints in concrete surfaces. They effectively remove debris, old sealants, and other contaminants from these joints, ensuring a proper seal and longevity.

  • Twist Knot Wire Wheel: Twist knot wire wheels are recognized by their tightly twisted wire bristles that form a dense and robust brush surface. They are known for their aggressive cutting action and are suitable for heavy-duty applications. Twist knot wire wheels are commonly used for heavy rust and scale removal, weld cleaning, and deburring of metal surfaces.

These different types of wire wheels offer versatility and cater to specific needs across various industries and applications. Whether you require precision cleaning, gentle surface preparation, or heavy-duty material removal, selecting the appropriate wire wheel type will ensure optimal results.

Whether you're restoring a vintage car, refining metalwork, or working on construction projects, wire wheels are indispensable tools that provide reliable and effective results. Diameters range from 2-3/4" up to 15". AFT Fasteners offers top brands including: Mercer Abrasives, 3M, Anchor Products, and more.