17Oct

How to Use an Angle Grinder

By Flooring Machines, Safety

How to Use an Angle Grinder Safely

Angle grinders can be converted to a floor grinder using a specialist cowl and disc – Hire 9″ Edging Grinder 110v| One Week Rate (multi-hire.co.uk)

Floor grinders can be used to remove coatings, screed and other products.  They can also be used as an edging tool for larger jobs

Using the half moon cowl the grinder can be used as a cutting machine. 

Multi-Hire use the Hikoki GM23R.  The machine has a 2400w motor and so can cope with any task without the risk of the grinder burning out. 

This blog will help you choose if the grinder is right for you project.  

What is an Angle Grinder?

An angle grinder is a handheld grinder designed for cutting materials or converted can be used for grinding flooring products.

As they have a high RPM and high weight to disk ratio, they are very aggressive at grinding.   This makes them great for grinding small jobs or doing edgework.  Larger jobs require larger grinders like the HTC280 or HTC 450 triple head diamond grinder.

Don’t Forget Dust Extraction

All grinders when cutting or grinding will produce dust which is toxic when breathed in.  The right vacuum should be selected to accompany the machine. 

How to Use an Angle Grinder

First of all the PPE you require is Safety Goggles, Hearing Protection, Dust Mask/Respirator, Gloves Steel-toed Boots.

Equipment Safety

  1. Inspect the Grinder: Check for damage to the tool, cord, and plug before use.
  2. Use the Right Disc: Make sure you’re using the correct type of disc for the material.
  3. Check Disc Condition: Ensure the disc is not cracked or worn out.
  4. Properly Secure the Disc: Ensure the disc is properly mounted and tightened.

Operating Procedures

  1. Work Area: Keep your workspace clean and well-lit. Remove flammable materials.
  2. Stable Position: Stand in a stable position and keep your body clear of the cutting path.
  3. Two Hands: Always use both hands to operate the grinder.
  4. Keep Guard in Place: Ensure the protective guard is adjusted properly to deflect sparks and debris.
  5. Don’t Overreach: Maintain a balanced stance and avoid working on unstable surfaces.
  6. Cut Away from Your Body: Always direct the tool away from yourself and others.

During Use

  1. Don’t Force the Tool: Let the grinder do the work; excessive pressure can cause the disc to break.
  2. Check the Hand Arm Vibration Rating: Check the rating of your tool to see how long you can use it in a shift to avoid things like white finger and loss of feeling in limbs.
  3. Avoid Wet Conditions: Don’t use an angle grinder in wet or damp environments.
  4. Take Breaks: If you’re working on a large project, take regular breaks to avoid fatigue.

How to Use an Angle Grinder on Concrete

When using as an edger follow the steps above, keep the grinder moving in a circular motion along the contour of the floor.

When selecting the right disc for the job there are two things to consider when choosing a grinding disc.

Grit – The lower the grit the more course the grind. 

Bond – Soft bonded diamonds are good for hard floors like power floated concrete.  Medium bond are a better general purpose diamond. Hard bonded segments are better for crumbling floors and soft coatings. 

How to Use an Angle Grinder to Cut Metal

Steps to Cut Metal

  • Prepare Your Workspace:
    • Clear the area of flammable materials.
    • Ensure you have good lighting and ventilation.
  • Mark the Cutting Line:
    • Use a marker to draw a straight line where you want to cut.
  • Secure the Metal (if it can be moved):
    • Use clamps to hold the metal securely in place on a stable surface. This will prevent movement during cutting.
  • Attach the Cutting Disc:
    • Make sure the angle grinder is unplugged.
    • Attach the metal cutting disc securely, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Put on Safety Gear:
    • Always wear safety glasses, gloves, ear protection, boots and a dust mask.
  • Start the Grinder:
    • Plug in the grinder and allow it to reach full speed before making contact with the metal.
  • Make the Cut:
    • Align the cutting disc with your marked line.
    • Apply gentle pressure and let the grinder do the work; don’t force it.
    • Keep a steady hand and follow the line carefully.
  • Cool Down:
    • If you’re cutting thick metal, the disc can overheat. Pause periodically to let it cool down.

Safety Reminders

  • Never bypass safety features.
  • Avoid loose clothing or jewellery that could get caught in the grinder.
  • Keep bystanders at a safe distance while cutting.
  • Discs can shatter if overworked. 

Can You Cut Wood With An Angle Grinder?

Yes, you can cut wood with an angle grinder, but it’s not the most common tool for that purpose.  Look at using a radial mitre saw or specialist band saw. 

To use the grinder, you follow the same steps as metal but use a toothed blade rather than a steel cutting disc. 

Safety Considerations

  • Fire Hazard: Wood can catch fire easily, so be cautious and keep a fire extinguisher nearby.
  • Dust: Wood cutting generates a lot of dust, so a dust mask is essential.
  • Bystanders: Keep others at a safe distance while you’re working.

How to Change the Blade on an Angle Grinder

Steps to Change the Blade

Select the right disc for the job.  Selecting the wrong disk could overwork the grinder causing it to burnout or break the disc causing significant injury. 

  1. Unplug the Grinder:
    • Ensure the angle grinder is unplugged from the power source for safety.
  2. Prepare the Workspace:
    • Find a clean, stable surface to work on.
  3. Press the Spindle Lock:
    • Locate the spindle lock button on the grinder (usually on the top). Press it down to lock the spindle in place.
  4. Loosen the Nut:
    • Using the wrench or spanner, turn the nut counterclockwise to loosen it. Depending on the model, you might need to hold the spindle lock while turning the nut.
  5. Remove the Old Disc:
    • Once the nut is loose, carefully remove it along with the old disc. Keep the washer (if applicable) as you may need it for the new disc.
  6. Attach the New Disc:
    • Place the new disc onto the spindle. Ensure it’s oriented correctly—most discs have a directional arrow indicating the proper rotation.
  7. Replace the Nut:
    • Place the washer back (if needed) and screw the nut back on. Tighten it by turning it clockwise. Make sure it’s secure, but don’t overtighten.
  8. Release the Spindle Lock:
    • Press the spindle lock button again to release it.
  9. Check the Installation:
    • Before plugging in the grinder, check to ensure the disc is properly installed and secure.
  10. Plug in and Test:
    • Plug the grinder back in, start it up, and ensure everything runs smoothly before using it on your project.

Choosing the Right Diamond Tools for Your Angle Grinder

  1. Type of Job
  • Cutting: If you’re cutting hard materials like concrete, bricks, or tile, look for diamond blades specifically designed for those materials.
  • Grinding: For grinding surfaces, opt for diamond grinding wheels. These are suitable for smoothing rough surfaces or removing material.
  • Polishing: For polishing concrete or stone, diamond polishing pads will give you a high-gloss finish.
  1. Material Compatibility
  • Ensure the diamond tool is compatible with the material you’re working on. For instance:
    • Concrete & Masonry Cutting: Use segmented blades or wheels with a higher diamond concentration.
    • Ceramic & Porcelain Cutting: Opt for continuous rim blades for a smoother cut.
    • Concrete Grinding: Use a grinding cup disc for grinding, or a PCD for heavy removal. 
  1. Bond Type
  • Soft Bond: Best for hard materials as it allows for more diamond exposure.
  • Hard Bond: Suitable for softer materials, providing longer tool life.
  1. Grit Size
  • The grit size affects the finish. Finer grits (higher numbers) provide a smoother finish, while coarser grits (lower numbers) are for faster material removal.

Safety Tips When Using an Angle Grinder

Using an angle grinder can be safe and effective when you follow proper safety precautions. Here are some essential safety tips to keep in mind:

1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

  • Eye Protection: Always wear safety goggles or a face shield to protect against flying debris.
  • Hearing Protection: Use earmuffs or earplugs to guard against loud noise.
  • Respiratory Protection: If grinding or cutting materials that produce dust, consider a dust mask or respirator.
  • Gloves: Wear heavy-duty gloves to protect your hands, but ensure they fit well to avoid snagging.

2. Proper Tool Inspection

  • Check the angle grinder for any damage before use, including the power cord, guard, and mounting flanges.
  • Ensure the grinding or cutting disc is in good condition and properly mounted.

3. Work Environment

  • Use the grinder in a well-ventilated area to reduce exposure to dust and fumes.
  • Keep the work area clean and free from clutter to avoid tripping hazards.
  • Ensure that flammable materials are kept at a safe distance from the work area.

4. Secure Your Workpiece

  • Clamp or secure the material you’re working on to prevent it from moving while you cut or grind.

5. Correct Grip and Stance

  • Hold the grinder firmly with both hands for better control.
  • Maintain a balanced stance to avoid slipping or losing control.

6. Use the Right Tool for the Job

  • Select the appropriate disc or wheel for the task (cutting, grinding, polishing) and the material you’re working with.

7. Avoid Overreaching

  • Keep both feet on the ground and maintain a stable posture. Avoid working on ladders or in awkward positions.

8. Mind the Speed

  • Do not exceed the maximum RPM rating of the disc. Always match the grinder speed to the tool’s specifications.

9. Turn Off and Unplug After Use

  • Always turn off the grinder and unplug it when changing discs or when it’s not in use.

10. Be Aware of Your Surroundings

  • Watch for other people in the area, and ensure they are at a safe distance while you work.

11. Avoid Loose Clothing and Jewellery

  • Wear fitted clothing and remove any loose jewellery that could get caught in the grinder.

12. Use a Guard

  • Always use the guard that comes with the grinder. It helps to protect against debris and potential accidents.

By following these safety tips, you can significantly reduce the risks associated with using an angle grinder and ensure a safer working environment.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using an Angle Grinder

Using an angle grinder can be highly effective, but several common mistakes can lead to accidents or poor results. Here are some key mistakes to avoid:

  • Not Wearing Proper PPE
  • Using the Wrong Disc
  • Neglecting Tool Inspection
  • Improper Grip and Stance
  • Overreaching
  • Ignoring the Manufacturer’s Instructions
  • Failing to Secure Workpieces
  • Cutting with the Edge Instead of the Flat Side
  • Not Using a Guard
  • Neglecting Maintenance
  • Using Excessive Force
  • Ignoring Surroundings
  • Improperly Changing Discs
  • Using a Dull or Worn Disc

By being aware of these common mistakes and taking steps to avoid them, you can enhance your safety and efficiency when using an angle grinder.

Conclusion

To summarise:

  • Wear the correct PPE.
  • Select the right grinder and disc. 
  • Never overwork the grinder. 
  • Make sure all the parts and machine are intact, not tampered with and serviced.
  • Follow all manufacturer’s instructions.

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