The wide variety of wheels available for a bench grinder make it a versatile tool for
grinding, cleaning, and polishing. Grinders typically come equipped with a tool rest,
spark guard, and protective shield for each wheel and can be mounted on a workbench or
a separate pedestal.
Using a Bench Grinder
Set the tool rest at the desired angle and so the rear edge is within 1/16 inch of the
wheel. Adjust the spark shield so that it covers the work area without producing
distracting reflections. Use both hands to hold a tool to be sharpened firmly against the
rest, and slowly move the edge of the tool forward until it touches the wheel.
Move the tool from side to side - sparks should fly evenly from the edge. When the tool
feels warm to your hands, cool it in water, as overheating can ruin the cutting edge.
Purchasing
Grinders come in many different sizes, as measured by the diameter of the largest wheel
they can hold - typically from 5 to 10 inches. Grinder motors vary in capacity from 1/5
horsepower, for the smallest versions, to 1 horsepower or more. While most grinders spin
at 3,450 revolutions per minute (rpm), some versions are geared to turn a grinding wheel
in a water bath at speeds as low as 60 rpm. Though they grind slowly, these wheels cannot
overheat tools being sharpened.
Caution
- Before installing the wheel, clean dirt and debris from the protrusion on which
it sits (called the arbor). Do not overtighten the nut against a grinding wheel -
you may crack the wheel, which then may disintegrate while spinning.
- Never grind on the side of a grinding wheel unless it is designed specifically for
that purpose.
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Brought to you by Book of Skills and Tools and New Complete Do-It-Yourself Manual
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