Disc grinders are indeed one of the popular tools in the construction industry and are favourites amongst the DIY community. The tool is mostly used to smooth metal surfaces, wood surfaces, and tiles, among other things.
Without needing to utilise other machines, it can be used as a powerful multi-purpose machine that can help users complete their metal fabrication tasks.
Needless to say, it is critical to learn how to use an angle grinder if you plan to make a DIY project. Even though it is not hard to utilise it, there are some basic skills and notes that you must keep in mind.
Read on to this blog to start now!
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Some Risks When Using The Machine Incorrectly
Although this tool appears to be small and simple, it may be a hazardous machine if you do not know how to use it properly. Let’s take a look at some potential risks below:
Material splashing
When utilising this tool, particularly for material cutting operations, the fragments of material you work with may be flung out and pose a risk to you and the people around you.
Electrical hazard
This can happen if you don’t utilise the grinder’s proper voltage or use too many cables, resulting in a low current condition. The input voltage to the machine is insufficient. An open wire, a burned-out circuit breaker, or an electrical outlet can all constitute an electrical hazard.
Burns
When using this machine after a long time, both the grinding disc and the work surface reach high temperatures during operation due to friction. If you touch it with your hands, you might get burnt as a result.
Risk of dust contamination
This machine can produce harmful dust particles that can harm your health when you work with them.
How To Use An Angle Grinder?
Tips for Safety Use
- Safety and protection equipment must be fully prepared when using grinders.
- When performing a grinding task, it is necessary to check the machine’s safety before operating it.
- Avoid holding the blade of grinders to avoid injury.
- The toolset should be cleaned regularly.
- Do not use the grinder in a dangerous location, especially in combustible and explosive environments, near liquids, or inclement weather.
1: Safe working environment
Make sure your workspace is clutter-free and always has enough light to work. You should also have a fire extinguisher on hand and stay away from flammable things to avert a fire.
2: Use personal protective equipment
Protecting your eyes, hearing, feet, and hands with protective gear will help you avoid injury.
3: Ensure this tool is in a safe condition
Check that the flex and plug, side handles, and ventilation slots are all operating properly before using the device.
4: Ensure a safe power source
Electricity is one of the dangers when using power tools. Firstly, please check plugs, sockets, and power cords to ensure no electrical leaks.
Secondly, avoid working in moist environments and stop leaving power wires near rotating equipment since they can easily become tangled in potentially harmful machinery.
How To Use The Tool Effectively?
Cut Bolts, Rods and Bars
Attach a grinding wheel in the tool, hold up the longest side of your rebar. Next, lay the grinding wheel via the metal. At this stage, the machine handles most of the force and weight. The short side should be laid freely.
In fact, you can utilise a hacksaw to cut the metal (this will take you more time). The grinders, on the other hand, are best for rough and fast cuts.
Cut Concrete, stone, and Tiles
At the back and front of the tile that you plan to cut, use a pencil to mark the line with accuracy. Then, press the tile to the workbench and set the line around 0.3 cm.
Keep in mind that it is almost impossible to cut or notch stone and ceramic tile to match around outlets if standard cutters are incapable of it. Yet, here is a small tip for you: The disc grinders can help you with this task if they are accompanied by the dry-cut diamond wheels.
Sanding and light grinding
Make sure that you hold the equipment at an angle of five to ten degrees to the surface. Besides, apply minimum pressure for this job only! Let the wheel and the disc grinders do the hard job!
Conclusion
So, how to use an angle grinder safely? – Make sure that you have prepared yourself all the safety equipment before starting working with it!
In addition, please utilise the correct and suitable disc for both the tool and the material you are working on. Do not forget to note down all the listed tips above for safety and effectiveness!