Abrasives · Buying Guide · Canada Three discs, one 4.5 inch grinder, and a shop full of opinions. Here is how to sort out which abrasive belongs on which job, how to read the markings on the label, and what a Canadian fabrication shop should keep on the shelf. The short answer A cut-off wheel severs material. It is thin, usually 0.045 inch to 1/8 inch, and it works with the edge of the wheel only. A grinding wheel removes heavy metal fast. It is thick, usually 1/4 inch, and it …