Product Overview
The Forney 71946 Strip and Finish Disk is designed for efficient cleaning and stripping of metal surfaces back to their bare form. This heavy-duty disk is constructed with purple non-woven fiber webbing adhered to a durable fiberglass backing. Its open web design facilitates cooler material removal, preventing clogging and maintaining consistent cutting effectiveness throughout the disk's lifespan. This design also aids in heat dispersion, which helps to reduce warp lines, burning, and discoloration on the workpiece. It is suitable for use on steel, stainless steel, and aluminum. The non-woven fibers offer a safer alternative to wire brushes by significantly reducing the risk of injury from loose flying material.
Image: The Forney 71946 Strip & Finish Disk, showing its purple abrasive material and central mounting hub. The disk is 4.5 inches in diameter.
Setup and Installation
Before installation, ensure your angle grinder is unplugged and powered off. Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety glasses, gloves, and hearing protection, when handling and installing abrasive disks.
- Compatibility Check: Verify that your angle grinder is compatible with a 4.5-inch diameter disk and has a 7/8-inch arbor. The Forney 71946 disk is designed for angle grinders.
- Inspect Disk: Before mounting, visually inspect the disk for any signs of damage, cracks, or deformities. Do not use a damaged disk.
- Mounting: Align the disk's arbor hole with the spindle of your angle grinder. Secure the disk firmly using the grinder's retaining nut and wrench. Ensure the disk is seated correctly and does not wobble.
- Guard Placement: Ensure the angle grinder's safety guard is properly installed and adjusted to provide maximum protection during operation.
Image: Top-down view of the Forney 71946 Strip & Finish Disk, illustrating its 4.5-inch by 4.5-inch dimensions and the central mounting area.
Operating Instructions
The Forney 71946 Strip and Finish Disk is intended for stripping and finishing applications on various metal surfaces. Always prioritize safety during operation.
- Safety First: Always wear appropriate PPE, including eye protection (safety glasses or face shield), hearing protection, and heavy-duty gloves. Ensure your work area is clear of obstructions and well-ventilated.
- Material Compatibility: This disk is effective on steel, stainless steel, and aluminum. Avoid using it on materials for which it is not designed, as this can damage the disk or the workpiece.
- Optimal Speed: Operate your angle grinder at or below the maximum rated RPM of 10,000 RPM for the disk. Exceeding this speed can lead to disk failure and serious injury.
- Application Technique: Apply light to moderate pressure, allowing the disk to do the work. Move the grinder consistently across the surface to ensure even material removal and prevent localized heat buildup. The open web design helps to disperse heat and prevent clogging.
- Stripping: For stripping paint, rust, or coatings, use a consistent motion to remove the unwanted layer. The aggressive nature of the purple heavy-duty grade will quickly strip surfaces.
- Finishing: For finishing applications, use lighter pressure and a more controlled motion to achieve the desired surface texture.
- Avoid Overheating: If the disk or workpiece becomes excessively hot, allow them to cool down before continuing.
Maintenance
Proper maintenance extends the life of your Forney Strip and Finish Disk and ensures safe operation.
- Cleaning: After use, gently brush off any accumulated debris or material from the disk. Avoid using harsh chemicals or solvents that could degrade the abrasive material or bonding agent.
- Storage: Store the disk in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight and moisture. Protect it from impacts that could cause cracks or damage.
- Inspection: Before each use, inspect the disk for wear, damage, or excessive material buildup. Replace the disk if it shows signs of significant wear, chipping, or any other damage.
Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues while using your Forney Strip and Finish Disk, consider the following common problems and solutions:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Reduced cutting effectiveness | Disk is worn out or clogged with material. | Clean the disk if clogged. If worn, replace with a new disk. |
| Excessive heat buildup on workpiece | Too much pressure applied or insufficient movement. | Reduce pressure and maintain a consistent, sweeping motion across the surface. Allow workpiece to cool. |
| Disk wobbles during operation | Disk not properly secured or damaged. | Ensure the disk is correctly mounted and the retaining nut is tightened. Inspect for damage and replace if necessary. |
Specifications
- Model: 71946
- Brand: Forney
- Size: 4-1/2 inches (4.5"L x 4.5"W)
- Arbor: 7/8 inches
- Wheel Type: Type 27
- Max RPM: 10,000 revolutions per minute (RPM)
- Grade: Purple (heavy-duty)
- Grit Material: Non-woven fiber webbing
- Compatible Devices: Angle Grinder
- Materials for Use: Steel, Stainless Steel, Aluminum
- Item Weight: 3.68 ounces
- Color: Purple
- Part Number: 71946
- UPC: 032277719460
Warranty Information
The Forney 71946 Strip & Finish Disk comes with a 30-day warranty from the date of purchase. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use. For specific details regarding warranty claims or returns, please refer to your purchase documentation or contact Forney customer support.
Support and Contact
For additional support, technical assistance, or inquiries regarding the Forney 71946 Strip & Finish Disk, please visit the official Forney website or contact their customer service department. Always refer to the product's packaging or the manufacturer's website for the most current contact information and support resources.
