DeWalt HP Masonry Grinding Cup Wheels Type 11

When tackling masonry projects, having the right grinding tool can make all the difference. Recently, I had the opportunity to work with the DeWalt HP Masonry Grinding Cup Wheel, specifically the DW4961 model. This tool is designed for masonry applications, and I was eager to see how it performed in real-world tasks.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing that stood out to me was the robust build quality of the DW4961. The grinding cup wheel features a combination of aluminum oxide and silicon carbide grains. This blend promises a long life and high material removal rate, and it certainly delivered on that front. The Type 11 shape of the wheel is designed to provide maximum surface grinding coverage, which I found to be particularly effective when working on larger areas.

The wheel is backed by a metal plate, adding to its durability. This is a notable feature because it ensures that the wheel can withstand the rigors of heavy-duty grinding without breaking down prematurely. The proprietary material mix also contributes to the aggressive grinding action, which was evident from the moment I started using it.

Performance

One of the standout features of the DW4961 is its ability to handle tough masonry surfaces with ease. I used it primarily for grinding down the edges of lifted concrete and smoothing out pitted areas on an exterior block wall fence. The wheel performed exceptionally well in both tasks. The 16-grit abrasive material was aggressive enough to remove material quickly but still left a relatively smooth finish that was easy to work with.

The wheel operates at a maximum speed of 9,000 RPM, and I found that it maintained its efficiency even at higher speeds. This is crucial for anyone who needs to complete their projects quickly without compromising on the quality of the finish. The 4-inch diameter and 5/8-inch arbor diameter make it compatible with most standard angle grinders, adding to its versatility.

Ease of Use

Setting up the grinding cup wheel was straightforward. It fit perfectly onto my angle grinder, and I didn't experience any issues with wobbling or instability during use. The wheel's thickness of 2 inches provides a good balance between durability and maneuverability. I was able to control the tool easily, even when working on vertical surfaces.

One minor downside was that the wheel's label was partially scuffed off when it arrived. While this didn't affect the tool's performance, it's worth noting for those who prefer their tools to arrive in pristine condition. Additionally, the product arrived a day late, which was a slight inconvenience but not a deal-breaker.

Durability

After several hours of use, the DW4961 showed minimal signs of wear. The aluminum oxide and silicon carbide grains held up well, and the metal backing provided added assurance that the wheel wouldn't break down under pressure. This durability is a significant advantage, especially for those who undertake large-scale masonry projects regularly.

Value for Money

Considering the performance and durability of the DW4961, I found it to be a good value for money. The package includes 10 grinding wheels, which is more than enough to last through multiple projects. While the initial cost might seem a bit steep, the longevity and effectiveness of the wheels make it a worthwhile investment.

Recommendations

Overall, I would highly recommend the DeWalt HP Masonry Grinding Cup Wheel DW4961 for anyone involved in masonry work. Its aggressive grinding action, durability, and ease of use make it an excellent choice for tackling various masonry tasks. Whether you're smoothing out pitted surfaces or grinding down lifted concrete edges, this tool is up to the challenge.

The minor issues with the scuffed label and delayed delivery were overshadowed by the tool's outstanding performance and build quality. If you're looking for a reliable and efficient grinding cup wheel for masonry applications, the DW4961 is a solid choice that won't disappoint.