DeWalt Stainless Steel Cutting Stationary and Chop Saw Wheels Type 1

When I first got my hands on the DeWalt DW8015 cutting wheels, I was eager to see how they would perform in various cutting applications, especially since they are touted for their efficiency with stainless steel. These wheels are designed for stationary and chop saws, promising durability and consistent performance. With a size of 12" x 7/64" x 1", they seemed ideal for a range of metal cutting tasks.

First Impressions and Build Quality

The construction of the DeWalt cutting wheels immediately stood out. Featuring an aluminum oxide grain, these wheels are built to last and aim to provide effective material removal. The high grain concentration is supposed to ensure efficient cutting, particularly in stainless steel, which can be a challenging material to work with. Additionally, the double reinforcement with fiberglass adds an extra layer of strength and safety, which is always a welcome feature when dealing with high-speed cutting tools.

One aspect that I appreciated right off the bat was the fact that these wheels are free from iron, sulfur, and chlorine. This is crucial because it prevents contamination during cutting, which can be a significant issue when working with sensitive metals like stainless steel.

Performance on Stainless Steel

I started by using the DeWalt cutting wheels on some stainless steel tubing. The wheels cut through the material with relative ease, and the cuts were clean and precise. The aluminum oxide grain seemed to live up to its promise of extended use and effective material removal. The high grain concentration did indeed make the cutting process efficient, and I noticed that the wheels did not wear down as quickly as some other brands I've used in the past.

However, when moving on to thicker pieces of stainless steel, the performance was not as stellar. The wheels struggled a bit and required more effort to complete the cuts. While they eventually got the job done, it was clear that they are better suited for thinner materials.

Performance on Other Metals

Curious about their versatility, I also tested the DeWalt wheels on aluminum and mild steel. The results were mixed. For aluminum, the wheels performed adequately but not exceptionally. The cuts were not as clean as I had hoped, and the wheels seemed to struggle more than I expected. It felt like the wheels were more melting the aluminum than cutting through it, which was a bit disappointing.

On mild steel, the performance was better. The wheels cut through with less resistance, and the edges were cleaner. However, I did notice that the wheels wore down faster than they did with stainless steel, which was a bit surprising given that mild steel is generally easier to cut.

Durability and Longevity

Durability is a key factor when it comes to cutting wheels, and the DeWalt DW8015 did not disappoint in this regard. The double fiberglass reinforcement really does add to the longevity of the wheels. They held up well over multiple cutting sessions, and I did not experience any significant chipping or breaking, which can be a common issue with lower-quality wheels.

That said, the wheels did show signs of wear after extensive use, particularly when cutting thicker materials. While they lasted longer than some other brands I've tried, they are not indestructible and will need to be replaced eventually, especially if used frequently on tougher materials.

Safety Considerations

Safety is always a top priority when using cutting tools, and the DeWalt cutting wheels excel in this area. The double reinforcement with fiberglass provides an added layer of security, reducing the risk of the wheels shattering during use. Additionally, the absence of iron, sulfur, and chlorine means that there's less risk of contamination, which can be a serious safety hazard when working with certain metals.

Overall Impression

The DeWalt DW8015 cutting wheels are a solid choice for anyone needing to cut stainless steel and other metals. They offer a good balance of durability, safety, and performance. While they excel with thinner materials, they can struggle with thicker pieces, so it's essential to keep that in mind depending on your specific needs.

Recommendation

Would I recommend the DeWalt DW8015 cutting wheels? Yes, but with some reservations. If your primary need is to cut thin to medium-thickness stainless steel, these wheels are an excellent choice. They offer clean cuts, durability, and a good level of safety. However, if you frequently work with thicker metals or need to cut a lot of aluminum, you might want to consider other options that are better suited for those specific tasks.

In summary, the DeWalt DW8015 cutting wheels are a reliable addition to any workshop, especially for those focused on stainless steel. They provide good performance, are built to last, and prioritize safety, making them a worthwhile investment for the right applications.