How to Use a Bench Grinder: 9 Steps

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How to Use a Bench Grinder: 9 Steps
How to Use a Bench Grinder: 9 Steps
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The bench grinder is used for grinding, cutting or shaping metal. You can use it to file sharp edges or remove metal burrs; you can also use it to sharpen sharp tools such as lawn mower blades.

Steps

Method 1 of 2: Turn on the Grinder

Use a Bench Grinder Step 1
Use a Bench Grinder Step 1

Step 1. Perform all security checks before starting the tool

  • Make sure it is securely attached to the workbench.
  • Check that the holder is mounted on the grinder. It is a support surface on which you can hold the workpiece; it must be well fixed in place, so that there is 3 mm of space between its edge and the abrasive disc.
  • Eliminate any objects or debris that is around the machine. There should be enough space for you to easily push the piece of metal back and forth on the grinder.
  • Fill a pot or bucket with water and keep it handy to cool the metal, which becomes hot when it comes into contact with the grinding wheel.
Use a Bench Grinder Step 2
Use a Bench Grinder Step 2

Step 2. Protect yourself from flying splinters

Wear safety glasses, steel-toed (or at least closed-toe) shoes, earplugs or headphones, and a face mask to avoid contact with dust.

Use a Bench Grinder Step 3
Use a Bench Grinder Step 3

Step 3. Start the bench grinder

Stay sideways until the disc reaches full speed.

Use a Bench Grinder Step 4
Use a Bench Grinder Step 4

Step 4. Work the metal piece

Move it directly to the front of the tool; hold it firmly with both hands, resting it on the holder, and slowly push it towards the sanding disc until the edge makes contact. Prevent the material from touching the sides of the grinder at any time.

Use a Bench Grinder Step 5
Use a Bench Grinder Step 5

Step 5. Dip the piece into the pot of water to cool it down

To lower the temperature of the metal during and after grinding, just put it in the container of water; keep your face away from the surface to avoid the steam that forms when the hot metal touches the water.

Method 2 of 2: Grind, Cut, Shape and Sharpen

Use a Bench Grinder Step 6
Use a Bench Grinder Step 6

Step 1. Grind the metal

Move it over the abrasive surface of the disc until the residue to be removed is completely gone; if you leave it in one place for too long, you overheat the surfaces and could damage the object.

Use a Bench Grinder Step 7
Use a Bench Grinder Step 7

Step 2. Cut the metal piece

  • Hold it on the holder and turn it gently until the machine makes contact with the point you want to cut.
  • Keep rotating the material until it breaks in half. Make sure you have a firm grip on each end, and dip the hot parts into the water when you're done.
Use a Bench Grinder Step 8
Use a Bench Grinder Step 8

Step 3. Model the metal

  • Bring the point you want to fold in contact with the grinder; move it horizontally as if you want to grind it.
  • When the metal turns orange, it is hot enough to be moved away from the tool. Use both hands to fold and shape the piece as needed; when you are satisfied with the result, soak it in water to cool it.
Use a Bench Grinder Step 9
Use a Bench Grinder Step 9

Step 4. Sharpen a blade

  • Place it on the holder and hold it firmly with both hands.
  • Slowly push it towards the edger by tilting it slightly up or down to create a sharp, pointed edge. Move it horizontally and let the sanding disc work the entire length of the metal to avoid cutting it or overheating it.

Advice

  • Check that you have fitted the correct abrasive disc for the type of metal or piece you are working on. Just like sandpaper, these discs are also made to achieve different levels of precision; some are built to cut metal, others to gently smooth the surface.
  • Do not wear gloves when using a bench grinder. While a quick smear contact with the hand certainly removes some skin, the glove fabric could get trapped in the disc mechanism, literally tearing the fingers; at most, you can use latex ones to protect your hands from irritating dust.

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