Portable (hand held) Angle Grinder

About the tool:

An angle grinder, also known as a side grinder or disc grinder, is a handheld power tool used for grinding (abrasive cutting) and polishing. Although developed originally as tools for rigid abrasive discs, the availability of an interchangeable power source has encouraged their use with a wide variety of cutters and attachments.

Angle grinders can be powered by an electric motor, petrol engine or compressed air. The motor drives a geared head at a right-angle on which is mounted an abrasive disc or a thinner cut-off disc, either of which can be replaced when worn. Angle grinders typically have an adjustable guard and a side-handle for two-handed operation. Certain angle grinders, depending on their speed range, can be used as sanders, employing a sanding disc with a backing pad or disc. The backing system is typically made of hard plastic, phenolic resin, or medium-hard rubber depending on the amount of flexibility desired.

Uses:

Angle grinders may be used for removing excess material from a piece. There are many different kinds of discs that are used for various materials and tasks, such as cut-off discs (diamond blade), abrasive grinding discs, grinding stones, sanding discs, wire brush wheels and polishing pads.

Safety:

Angle grinders spin at speeds between 10,000 - 11,000 rpm. They are fast enough to be dangerous if not handled carefully. Cutting and grinding ferrous metals produces sparks and shards of material. When shear force is placed on a thing cutting blade they may break. Follow these safety procedures when operating an angle grinder:

• Wear a face shield, gloves, ear protection, long sleeves or a jacket

• Unplug the grinder when changing wheels

• Attach the hand and maintain a firm grip with both hands

• Use the guard if possible

• Run new wheels for one minute in a protected area before using them to make sure the wheel isn't defective

• Orient the wheel so debris is directed downward

• Keep bystanders away. Everyone in the vicinity should wear safety glasses.

• Clamp or secure the workpiece using clamps or a vice

Instructional Videos:

Angle Grinder Basics: