Angle Grinders
Angle grinders are versatile power tools that feature a spinning abrasive disc or grinding wheel. They are commonly used for a variety of tasks like cutting, grinding, polishing, and sharpening a wide range of materials including metal, stone, concrete, and ceramic. Angle grinders provide a high-speed, aggressive material removal capability that makes them well-suited for applications like cutting through steel pipes, grinding down weld beads, sharpening lawnmower blades, and more.
The spinning disc or wheel is powered by an electric or pneumatic motor, allowing angle grinders to operate at very high rotational speeds, typically between 10,000-15,000 RPM. This high speed gives angle grinders their cutting and grinding power, but also means they must be used with great care and proper safety precautions. The spinning disc can easily cause severe injuries if it breaks apart or comes into contact with the user's body.
Key safety considerations when using an angle grinder include wearing proper personal protective equipment like safety glasses, gloves, and a dust mask; securing the workpiece to prevent kickback; using the proper disc type and speed for the material; and maintaining full control of the tool at all times. Angle grinders also produce a lot of dust and debris, so working in a well-ventilated area or using a dust collection attachment is advisable. With the right precautions and technique, angle grinders can be extremely useful tools for a variety of home improvement, construction, automotive, and metalworking tasks.