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First use of patented AVOS technology for bonded abrasive products

A new line of grinding wheels that use the innovative AVOS® design, which gives operators a complete view of the work surface while grinding, has been introduced by Norton Company.

The use of the patented AVOS – Allows View of Surface – design brings all the benefits of "see through" grinding, including better surface finish and longer product life, to a wide range of light grinding and blending applications on ferrous and non-ferrous materials.

The first products in the new AVOS line are depressed center wheels. These products, also known as raised hub wheels, are commonly used for light to medium portable grinding jobs. They take their name from the area near the arbor hole, which is offset to accommodate the mounting nut and flange.

AVOS depressed center wheels are manufactured with a unique silhouette featuring three "notches" along the wheel's periphery. When the wheel spins, it provides a complete vision of the grinding surface.

Because the new wheels offer a view of the entire work surface while grinding, operators can approach the work piece at the lowest possible angle (5° - 15°), which allows them to grind a larger contact area and produce a smoother, flatter surface in less time. Operators can grind more quickly and accurately, while generating more consistent quality finishes with less rework required (typically, due to gouging).

AVOS depressed center wheels cut cooler and faster than conventional products. The AVOS shape and wheel face allow a greater amount of air to circulate, reducing heat in the grinding zone. The design also expels the swarf produced by grinding, which otherwise can load a wheel and reduce its ability to grind.

Guy Timm, manager of process and product engineering for Norton Company, said the new product line marks the first time the company has used its patented AVOS design for bonded abrasives (grinding wheels). Previously, the design concept was used only on coated abrasive discs.

"In designing a bonded abrasive version of the AVOS wheel, we found that the notched periphery design worked best, both from a manufacturing and a performance standpoint," Timm said. "While the coated and bonded versions of AVOS look slightly different, they both provide a complete view of the work surface and a highly effective method of reducing heat and loading in the grinding zone."

The new line of AVOS wheels features durable, tough aluminum oxide abrasive. AVOS depressed center wheels will be available initially in two types: 36 and 60 grit sizes for grinding ferrous materials, and a 46 grit product for use with aluminum and other non-ferrous materials. The wheels feature a resin bond reinforced with fiberglass for added strength.

AVOS depressed center wheels are available in two sizes: 4-1/2 x 1/8 x 7/8 in. and 5 x 1/8 x 7/8 in.

All AVOS depressed center wheels are designed for use only on right-angle grinders. Standard procedures are used for mounting the new wheels.

For more information on AVOS depressed center wheels, contact Barry Cole, Marketing Communications Manager, Norton Company, One New Bond Street, Box 15008, Worcester, MA 01615-0008. Tel: 508-795-5709; or, Barry.D.Cole@saint-gobain.com.

A leading supplier of abrasives since 1885, Norton Company provides a full line of coated, bonded, superabrasives and Bear-Tex® non-woven products. Norton Company is part of the Saint-Gobain Abrasives Group. Saint-Gobain is one of the world's 100 largest industrial companies. Founded in 1665, Saint-Gobain is a $26.6 billion world leader in engineered materials. Headquartered in Paris, Saint-Gobain employs approximately 171,000 people and has manufacturing operations in more than 45 countries.

Source: Norton Company