A bench grinder
usually consists of two motor driven arbors that can have
several different style wheels mounted depending on what you
are working on. Often an abrasive wheel, wire wheel,
or buffing wheel may be found on a grinder. Bench
grinders using an abrasive wheel are used to roughly shape
metal prior to welding or deburr edges. A wire wheel
is useful for removing paint and cleaning off rust.
Buffing wheels are used to polish or buff all kinds of
material.
Two very useful
features to look for are a mounted work light, which will
directly illuminate your work, and an adjustable rest, which
functions much like the tool rest on a lathe. Strongly
consider models which have both features. Many also include
a clear, see-through spark guard, which will help keep any
sparks from flying toward your face. A word of caution,
though: such a guard does not replace safety goggles. Never
use a bench grinder without wearing your protective eyewear.
8" Grinder from Delta with
shields and work light
Safety glasses and
protective clothing are a must when using a bench grinder.
Sparks and small pieces will be thrown from the wheels.
If you are working with a small piece hold it with a pair of
locking pliers to avoid the piece from being pulled from
your hands and thrown by the grinder.
