Examine the wheel for any signs of damage. The ring test is one way to check if the wheel is in proper working order. Tap wheels gently with a nonmetallic tool such as a plastic screwdriver handle or wooden mallet. A wheel in good condition will emit a metallic ring. Reject any a wheel that sounds dead or cracked.
All abrasive wheels are fragile.
Handle wheels carefully. Avoid dropping or bumping. Transport wheels in containers designed to provide support for the wheels if they are too heavy to carry by hand. Do not pile other items such as tools on top of wheels. Store wheels in racks or bins with dividers for different types of wheels.