Bench Grinder

A Bench Grinder is machine used for shaping and sharpening cutting tools and other rough shaping tasks.

Abrasive wheels spin at great speed and tools or other parts are offered up to the wheel against the tool rest. A large amount of heat is generated so the tool is dunked in water repeatedly to keep it cool.

Spark deflectors send sparks away from the operator and wheel guards are designed to contain a wheel if it should explode and prevent the parts from injuring or killing the operator.

These tools can be incredebly dangerous as the wheels can explode if not maintained or if run too fast.

You will never use this tool in the workshop!

The grinder has two wheels which are usually set for course and fine grinding. Wheels can also come in different materials so that they can grind hardened or carbide tools.

Over time the wheel will become uneven in shape as the corner or mid face is worn away. The wheel is then 'dressed' with a diamond tipped tool to bring it back to a true shape.

A dressing tool and a range of different grinding wheels