Anyone who has used a grinding wheel when cutting through metal, no matter how hard or soft, knows just how useful these tools are. They provide a level of precision and accuracy not obtainable from other devices, resulting in a smooth finish in a relatively short period of time.
While you may already know how to use a metal grinding wheel, are you sure you know how to use it correctly?
Check out these helpful tips and tricks you can use next time you grab your grinder.
What Is a Metal Grinding Wheel?
A metal grinding wheel is an abrasive, sharp tool used in the metalworking industry to cut through hard materials to get a smooth and accurate finish and achieve a close, clean cut.
These grinders work at a fast speed and create a lot of heat that you should monitor closely, primarily when used on soft or thin metals.
The grinding disc is made of two things that allow it to cut various sizes and shapes in all types of metal, the abrasive compound, and the bond or coating placed between them, holding them together.
Tips and Tricks for Using a Metal Grinding Wheel
Grinding wheels are great tools to have on hand for anyone who is frequently working with metal. However, you can face many problems if you are not careful when using them or don’t know what you are doing.
To ensure you get the best cut safely, here are a few great tips and tricks you can read through before busting out your tools.
Avoid Pushing Too Hard
Although applying pressure is a significant component of working with metal, even while using your grinder, you do have to keep the force you use in check. Pushing down too hard will create unwanted friction and heat, ultimately ruining your wheel.
Use the Best Angle
A metal cutting wheel is supposed to make straight, clean cuts. If you don’t use them at a perpendicular 90° angle aligned with the work surface, you risk the chance of binding the machine.
Finding the best angle can be tricky, and you may be uncomfortable until you find the right position for the job.
Let the Rotation Guide You
A metal grinding wheel has an arrow directing the user towards the direction the wheel is spinning. This is the direction you should follow when cutting into your material.
Following the cutting wheel, rotation is critical because it allows the grinder to use much of its own force to move smoothly through the metal. If you try to work against the rotation, you will not only cause more trouble for yourself in the way of effort but put yourself at risk of kickback, bouncing the grinding back at you.
Always Use Clamps
You always want to use clamps when cutting metal with a grinder. Because of the motion and speed of the tool, the material you are working with will likely move and slide. A significant vibration occurs when using a grinder that can be reduced when using clamps.
That said, you also want to ensure the clamps are correctly positioned. Having them too far away from the cutting area or somewhere that can block your view of the wheel will negatively affect your control over the project.
Choose the Appropriate Wheel Size and Thickness
The size and strength of the metal you are working on will determine the type of wheel you need to cut through it. If you are working with a thick, durable piece of metal, you will want a thicker wheel that is more abrasive and can last longer.
A thinner cutting face of a metal grinding wheel will offer a faster and smoother cut, which is ideal for softer, thinner material. Using a thin wheel on a thicker metal will create higher levels of friction and heat, damaging your wheel and possibly the metal you are working on.
Avoid Cutting Straight Down
You always want to rock or slide the abrasive surface like a kitchen knife when using a metal grinding wheel. Using a range of motion is imperative to ensuring the wheel blade stays nice and sharp and all your edges are clean.
If you put too much pressure onto the blade while trying to force it downward, it will create friction and limit the life of your blade.
Safety Tips and Tricks for Using Metal Grinding Wheels
Now that we have provided you with tips and tricks to ensure you get the perfect cut with the least effort, we want to ensure you can use this tool safely.
- Stick to the rated speed. There are rated wheel speeds for each project and machine; never cross over it.
- Glance over your tools. Before you place the wheel onto the grinding machine, give it a once-over to inspect for cracks or other damage.
- Use the wheel guard. Even if your project is small and shouldn’t take much time, always use the wheel guard.
- Store and maintain your grinder. Where and how you store your grinder can play a role in its effectiveness and longevity. Keep it in a safe, dry space free from dust and debris when it is not in use.
- Run your grinder for 60 seconds before use. Warm up the grinder to ensure it is ready to make the precise cuts required for slicing through metal.
- Use the proper size wheel. Never attempt to use a grinder with the wrong size wheel.
- Always wear safety glasses. When using a metal grinding wheel, always wear safety glasses to ensure you have adequate protection for your eyes.
Grinding wheels are a fantastic tool with high performance and the ability to complete metal cutting with high sensitivity. It is a quick way to cut through hardened steel and still end up with a smooth finish.
Final Thoughts
Using a grinding wheel lets you get a precise cut, sharp edge, and accurate sizes. Having a grinding wheel on hand when working on metal is helpful and efficient, especially when you take the advice listed above and the many tips and tricks we have provided you with.