Use an Angle Grinder
Angle grinders are powerful electric or pneumatic grinders with detachable grinding wheels that can be used for a variety of jobs around the house, from cutting small tile and cleaning garden tools to sharpening mower blades and grinding dry mortar. Knowing what you will be using an angle grinder for is important in learning how to use an angle grinder and choosing the right type of grinder and wheel attachments. An angle grinder is a handy and versatile tool that can save you a lot of time and energy, and can be used safely and efficiently by following a few simple instructions.
Steps
- Choose the grinder that is best suited to your project. Electric grinders are more powerful and are best for large jobs that cover a lot of surface area. Pneumatic grinders are less powerful, but easier to maneuver and are best for smaller jobs in tighter fitting spaces.
- Choose the proper discs. Sanding discs and polishing pads are used for finishing work, while cutting discs are used for cutting tile, masonry, steel or pipe and wire brush wheels to remove rust or paint. Grinding discs are also available for grinding metal and stone. Never use a cutting disk for grinding.
- Carefully read all the instructions and guidelines, being sure you understand any recommendations from the manufacturer, before using your grinder.
- Clamp your work firmly to a stable surface and make sure that the guard is properly secured.
- Hold the grinder with a firm grip and against the bulk or body of your work rather than on the edge of it.
- Move the grinder across the bulk or body of your work in the direction of the handle to avoid the grinder kicking back and the disc slipping, which may ruin your work and cause injury.
- When you have finished grinding, lift the grinder off the surface of the work slowly and gently.
Tips
- Run your grinder for a minute or two before using it to be sure that the wheel and handle are attached properly and that there are no defects.
- Position your work so that any debris is deflected down toward the floor, rather than into your face.
- If you are grinding metal, be sure to apply light pressure to avoid overheating the metal and keep a bucket of water and a rag handy to drench the metal and keep it cool as you grind.
Warnings
- Always unplug your grinder when you change the wheel.
- Be sure you exercise the proper safety precautions. The most common injuries in using an angle grinder are head and face injuries. Always wear a face shield or safety glasses and heavy duty work gloves.
- Grinding can cause sparks, so be sure to work a safe distance from any flammable materials.
- Be sure to keep children and any other curious bystanders at a safe distance, or better yet, out of the work area entirely.
- Use your grinder's guard whenever possible to avoid injury.
- Never wear loose clothing or head phones that may get caught in the machine.
Things You'll Need
- Impact resistant safety glasses or a face shield
- Earmuffs or earplugs
- A sealed respirator type face mask to avoid inhaling dust fragments or metal shavings
