Angle Die Grinder (20022507) SHOP USE ONLY

Cutting Metal, Masonry, Stone and Tile

Using an abrasive or diamond wheel, cutting metal is one of the common uses for an angle grinder. Around the house and garage, it’s great for cutting off frozen bolts, trimming down threaded rods, and cutting metal to shape for a variety of weekend projects.

Because of their thinner nature, abrasive cut-off wheels have a higher risk of coming apart, so be sure you’re always using the guard and safety glasses. You might want a thick apron as another layer of protection for your chest. 

Metal isn’t the only material you use an angle grinder for. With a steady hand, it’s an effective alternative to tile saws or cut-off saws for small-scope work with tile, masonry, and stone. Similar to metal cutting, you’re most likely going to use an abrasive or diamond wheel for cutting these materials. Be sure to check the package, though. There are different wheels for cutting metal and masonry.This is another application that you want to pay close attention to your PPE on. Cutting these materials throws up dust you can breathe in that’s not at all good for your lungs. There are special grinder accessories that let you attach a vacuum to pull in the dust. At the very least, a mask is a no-brainer.

Grinding/Polishing Metal

When you use an angle grinder for grinding and polishing metal, there are several wheels you might use. Some remove material aggressively and help you remove bumps or grind down welds so they’re flush to the connection. Other wheels remove material less aggressively and can even out the look or bring the metal back to a beautiful smooth shine. Then there are polishing wheels you can use to add a polishing compound to give the metal its best finish.

Cleaning Metal

If you have metal with paint or rust that needs to come off, it’s another great use for an angle grinder. A wire brush cup or wheel can knock both off without digging into the metal the way a grinding wheel would. A plastic/nylon stripping disc works slower but is less likely to damage the material underneath, so it’s a good choice for removing paint and lacquer.

Be careful when you’re using an angle grinder for cleaning, though. Paint and rust can come off in small enough bits for you to breathe them in, so be sure you’re using a mask in addition to your safety glasses and hearing protection.

Clearing Grout/Mortar

Similar to cutting masonry materials, you can also use an angle grinder to clear grout or mortar. Because these materials are usually in a thick line, you use a thicker grinder wheel to clear them in fewer passes.

Clearing grout and mortar introduces airborne dust, so stick to the same accessories and PPE as you do with cutting masonry products. If you’re working in an enclosed space, such as a shower, you might be better off with an oscillating multi-tool to remove grout.

Safety:

1.   WEAR PROTECTIVE GEAR

Wearing correct safety gear before using angle grinders is the first and most important safety precaution. A full-face mask, hand gloves, eye and hearing protection, suitable attire, natural fiber clothing, and apron, if needed, are all forms of protective gear. Avoid wearing loose clothing and tying long hair.

2.   CHECK FOR DAMAGES

Before using, inspect the damages. Accidental drops are unavoidable. It's possible that you didn't do it yourself and that it was done by someone else. You can inspect the attachment to check whether it has been damaged or if the grinder is unsafe to use. Whether you're dealing with a worn or new wheel, always inspect the blade first. Cutting discs may be damaged during delivery or dropped while being kept by accident. Check for chips, cracks, and other damage before using the disc to ensure that it functions to its maximum ability and keeps you and others safe.

3.   GRINDER WARM-UP AND INSPECTION

Allow at least one minute for the angle grinder to run with the attachment attached before using it, whether you're picking it up for the first time, returning from a break, or taking it from another worker. This allows the machine to warm up and reach full speed, as well as allowing you the opportunity to feel, hear, or see if the grinder is in good operating order.

While using your grinding wheel, it's vital to set the speed. As a general rule, begin slowly and gradually raise the speed until you are satisfied. Different operating speeds are required by different grinding blades. Consult your vendor if you're unsure about the appropriate speed for your grinder-blade combination.

9.   OPERATING GRINDER WITH TWO HANDS

Keeping perfect control of the grinder at all times is one of the most crucial safety considerations. It's vital to keep both hands on the power tool in the correct positions at all times. You have a lot more control and leverage with two hands on the machine. Always keep one hand on the handle and the other on the rear of the grinder.

10.   ADJUST THE RPMS TO THE WHEEL ALLOWANCE

RPMs are another crucial feature of your angle grinder. The maximum suggested RPM for each grinding disc, wire wheel, and other abrasive should be specified on the abrasive's face, packaging, and product description. Never use an abrasive tool with a lower recommended RPM than what your angle grinder can handle.

The abrasive discs are only designed to work at the speeds specified. When you utilize the discs at greater speeds, you risk damaging them by applying more force/pressure than the disc can safely take.