Angle Grinder

There are a myriad of different kinds of disks that are used for various materials and tasks, such as cut-off disks (diamond blade),abrasive grinding disks, sanding disks,wire brush wheels and polishing pads.Generally disc size and power increase together.Disc size is usually measured in inches. Common disc sizes for angle grinders include 4, 4.5, 5, 6, and 7 inches. Discs for pneumaticgrinders also come much smaller. Pneumatic grinders are generally used for lighter duty jobs where more precision is required.This is likely because pneumatic grinders can be small yet remain powerful, while it is harder for an electric grinder to maintain adequate power with smaller size. Electric grinders, however, are more commonly used for larger, more heavy duty jobs. This is not to say that there are not small electric grinders and large pneumatic grinders.

Things to Check Before Starting

 * the correct flange and locking nut is in place for the type of disc being used? (Otherwise the disc can shatter at high speed.
 * the guard and handles are secure.
 * there are no defects or damage to the disc.
 * any disc that has been dropped or become damp is thrown away. (Cracked or weakened discs can shatter in use.)
 * no flammable materials are close by.
 * work peice held firmly in a bench vice where necessary.
 * work peice kept at waist height during grinding, where possible.
 * allow the grinder to "run up" to operating speed before applying it to the job.
 * keep the grinding disc at a 15 to 30 degree angle to the work.
 * adopt a comfortable stance, with feet apart and well balanced, and with a clear view of the job.
 * wear knee pads to work at floor level.
 * never use a grinder between the legs while sitting on the floor.
 * stop the grinder at regular intervals for a short break to rest your arms and hands.
 * disconnect the power and place the grinder on a bench with the disc facing upwards when not in use.
 * never put a grinder down until the disc stops rotating.
 * remove the plug from the power point before changing discs.

Safety First Angle grinders, can be dangerous due to the high rpm involved and the sparks and bits of metal that fly off as they cut and grind. Another dangerous aspect of anglegrinders is that a bad cutting disk can shred when in use. A third risk is that if the edge of the grinding wheel binds in a corner the torque from the spinning wheel willjerk the tool violently. These safety hazards can be mitigated. Proper safety equipment while using an angle grinder would include safety glasses, thick leather gloves, andin more heavy duty operations hearing protection and a face shield. While using an angle grinder can occasionally result in injury, use of proper protective gear will greatly reduce the risk.