How to choose a cut-off wheel

Match the cutting wheel to your angle grinder, guard size, and workpiece material before making a cut. Every ANSI B7.1 compliant wheel is stamped with four critical specifications: diameter, thickness, arbor size, and maximum operating speed (RPM).

1. Diameter and arbor size

The wheel diameter must never exceed the size your angle grinder guard is rated for. Common handheld angle grinders take 4-1/2 in., 5 in., or 6 in. wheels with a 7/8 in. (22.23 mm) arbor hole.

2. Maximum RPM rating

Compare the maximum RPM printed on the wheel blotter against the no-load RPM on your grinder nameplate. A 4-1/2 in. wheel is typically rated for 13,300 RPM, a 5 in. wheel for 12,200 RPM, and a 6 in. wheel for 10,200 RPM.

3. Wheel thickness (.040 in. vs .045 in. vs 1/16 in.)

Thin .045 in. Type 1 wheels slice through steel, rebar, angle iron, and stainless tubing with minimal burr and low heat buildup.