What are flap discs?
Flap discs are a versatile abrasive disc used on angle grinders for metal fabrication. They are made up of multiple overlapping layers of abrasive material referred to as ‘flaps’, which is how they get their name. Flap discs do both the job of grinding and finishing and are known for their consistent finish compared to grinding discs.
There are a few different options you need to be aware of when shopping for flap discs.
Zirconia, ceramic and aluminium oxide are the different types of abrasive grit to choose from. Ceramic flap discs are the most efficient; they cut fast and last approximately 3x as long as zirconia flap discs.
You may come across different backing plates when looking for flap discs. Backing plates hold the flaps together. Fibreglass is the most common option but plastic backing plates are also available.
There are two flap disc shapes to be aware of. Conical flap discs (or type 29 flap discs as they are also known) are more suited for heavy stock removal whilst flat flap discs (type 27 flap discs) are more suited to blending and finishing. But whether you choose conical or flat flap discs is entirely personal preference.
You then have the choice of grit and diameter. We stock flap discs in 40, 60, 80 and 120 grits and our diameters range from 100mm to 180mm.
How long do flap discs last?
The multiple sections flap discs offer ensures extra longevity compared to other grinding discs. Ceramic flap discs are designed to last even longer. Lifespan will depend on use but if you are looking for flap discs that will last the longest, our ceramic products are the ones to shop.
Which flap disc should I choose?
Cibo offer a number of flap disc options:
FSC / FSF Industrial INOX range of flap discs: A cotton cloth backed zirconium oxide range designed for low pressure grinding. FSC discs are particularly good for grinding stainless steel and aluminium at low pressure.
FNC / FNF Industrial Steel flap disc line: Designed for the heavy duty steel fabricator, the FNC flap discs have a stronger poly cotton zirconium cloth which cuts really quickly when grinding at high pressure.
FHCC / FHCF Cibo Performance range of flap discs: Developed by AFS in partnership with Cibo we believe that Cibo Ceramics are the future for flap disc grinding and our customers seem to agree. If you want ceramic performance without breaking the bank, then the FHCC range is right for you. The Cibo Performance flap discs are excellent when you want high performance grinding of steel & stainless steel on your angle grinder.
FTC / FTF premium ceramic flap discs: Top of the range and top performance when grinding steel, stainless steel and aluminium. If you can measure flap disc performance then the FTC range will be the first choice every time.
FOV premium ceramic flap discs: Made with the same high perfromance Cibo Ceramic abrasive cloth as the FTC discs but with an extended flexible edge to the flap disc. The FOV discs are ideal for grinding mig welded fillet welds.
Helpful Guides
How To Choose The Right Flap Disc
Detailed guide looking at the types of flap disc available.
What are ceramic flap discs and are they really the best option.
Which are the best abrasive discs for metal work?
A look at how flap discs work on wood.
A look at the best types of flap discs for metal.