What is an Angle Grinder

If you’re passionate about upcycling or DIY projects, it’s likely that you have considered buying yourself an angle grinder. Angle grinders are some of the most powerful and versatile tools that anyone can have in their toolbox.

In this article, we’re going to look at what exactly an angle grinder is and why we think it should be an essential part of the toolbox. So, if you want to learn more about this tool, then you’ve come to the right place. Read on for more information about what is an angle grinder and how you can use this tool in your DIY projects.

A Brief Overview of the Angle Grinder

The angle grinder is a handheld power tool that can be used for a variety of metal fabrication jobs, including grinding, cutting, finishing, deburring, and polishing. The most common kinds of angle grinders are electrical, either connected to a wall plug via a cord or powered by a battery.

The abrasive discs that you use with your angle grinder will depend entirely on the specific job that you are looking to perform with the tool. You will also need to take the material that you are working with into consideration.

How Angle Grinders Work

Like we mentioned earlier, the majority of angle grinders are available as battery, corded, and even air-powered models. These tools work by using a small wheel or disc, and spinning them at incredibly high rates, usually around 8,000 RPM – 11,000 RPM.

These high speeds of rotation allow the discs to grind, cut and polish, and they also come in a wide variety of sizes. The head of the angle grinder is easy to replace when it becomes worn and generally features an adjustable guard with a side handle to allow for operation with two hands.

Depending on their speed range, certain angle grinders can be used as sanders by using a sanding disc with a backing pad or disc.

Reasons to Purchase an Angle Grinder

If you are still deciding if you should buy an angle grinder, here are a few reasons to push you in the “yes” direction.

There are Plenty of Models Available

Unlike many other specialist abrasives and tools, you can go into pretty much any local hardware store in the world and find a small section dedicated just to angle grinders. There are dozens of different brands and models to choose from, each at varying price points.

Your level of usage, your budget, and your experience will be some of the key influencers that determine which angle grinder you will purchase. You’ll want to avoid overspending on high-end models that you’ll only use once or twice a year. Instead, opt for a more affordable model that will likely last you longer.

Versatility and Ease of Use

It’s no secret that the angle grinder is the most versatile tool in the box, and it definitely should be a staple of any workshop or shed. An angle grinder that is used with the proper disc can replace a vast number of tools in your toolbox and can make even the most tedious jobs take mere minutes.

What’s more, they are wonderfully easy to control, and any novice – following the proper safety precautions – can pick up an angle grinder and start working.

PPE Needed When Using a Grinder

Personal Protective Equipment, or PPE, should be worn to protect you when you are performing your professional and DIY work, particularly when you are working with an angle grinder. Here are some of the things you should be wearing when working with this tool.

Earmuffs: These will reduce your risk of damaging your ears and are always highly important when working with power tools.

Safety goggles: These are essential for protecting your eyes from stray sparks. Full face visors will also provide you with an additional layer of protection should the blade or disk shatter.

Gloves: Gloves will provide you with immediate protection from small fragments launched by the disc, as well as sparks. They also protect your hands from general wear and tear, like scuffs, minor cuts, and abrasions. Remember that your gloves should fit tightly rather than baggy so that you are able to hold the grinder properly.

Dust masks: These are used to protect your body against fumes and dust particles in the air that are released during the cutting process.

Overalls: Protective clothing will safeguard you from sparks. Watch out for sparks falling into turn-ups or pockets, and ensure that the clothes’ materials are made using natural fibers.

Steel toe boots: These are particularly important when you are working with heavy items, which can drop when cut up. Your toes will be protected and will avoid being crushed should a heavy object fall on them.

Final Thoughts

And there you have it – everything you need to know about angle grinders – what they are, how they work, and whether you need one. Good luck with your next DIY project!