Bench Grinder Introduction

This page is INCOMPLETE and still missing some important information before it can be used as a resource. Please use the "Discussion" feature above or talk to one of the tutors if you would like to help improve it. Thanks!

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This is the content required for an introduction to our bench grinder - reading this does NOT replace the mandatory session with a tutor! It will make it a lot quicker though ;-)

Let's begin! First off, make sure you have read the machine's manual.

Safety

Dangers

• generation of hot sparks that are expelled in varying directions
• sparks can fly far and deposit themselves as fine dust
• the workpiece heats up and stays hot for a while
• has no prevention of turning on after loss & restoration of power (keine Anlaufsicherung)
• metal dust can be a health hazard when inhaled
• aluminum can clog an abrasive wheel and cause it to overheat until it breaks
• the workpiece can get caught on the wheel and get jerked from your hand

Precautions

• always wear goggles to protect your eyes
• depending on the work you have planned:
  • wear a proper dust mask if your material is harmful when inhaled
  • wear suitable gloves to prevent burns from sparks or the workpiece when you remove a lot of material
  • wear ear defenders if the noise level becomes uncomfortable
• do not attempt to vacuum up sparks! The dust collection bag could catch fire
• do not attempt to grind aluminum
• let the wheels get to full speed before you start grinding
• use the tool rests whenever possible
• make use of the grinder's plastic spark guards, if available
• do not force your workpiece on the grinding wheels, it will just overheat them and increase the risk of kickback