Bench grinders are generally for removing quite a bit of material quickly using grindstone wheels. The grindstones typically come in different levels of coarseness. As the grindstones are used, the front edge wears out, and it may be clogged with the metal. As such, it is vital to dress your grindstone periodically for better grinding efficiency.

Also, the grinding stones that are designed for hard materials such as steel should not be used on softer materials like aluminum. This is because the metal can get lodged in the wheel and explode later with the heat of grinding. This can dislodge the grinding wheel and cause injuries or damage the machine.

While grinding, it is crucial to move the material back and forth to avoid heat buildup. Also, using a coarse grit will help prevent the metal from overheating as it will enable you to work quickly. In addition, you can dip the metal in a can of water if it starts to heat up.

3. Cutting

A bench grinder is widely used for cutting hard items as well as wooden objects. The process involves holding the piece firmly onto the tool rest while rotating it towards the grinder surface gently. After the grinder makes contact with the spot you want to cut, you will be required to keep turning the material until it splits into two. Turning the piece will cutting will ensure a clean cut while also preventing the chances of catching fire, especially when dealing with wood. The material is then dipped in water to temper the hot ends and to achieve the desired smoothness.

6. Shaping Objects

When it comes to shaping metal or other objects, you'll be required to place the piece you want to carve right on top of the wheel. This should be done gradually in a back and forth motion, especially if you intend to grind off some parts off. A bench grinder will make it easy for you to smoothen up the surface of your workpiece more than other shaping tools would.

The object to be shaped should be held firmly against the grinding wheel and work slowly to enable a varying degree of shaping or finishing. It will also ensure that the material is not dislodged while being shaped. When shaping metal, ensure to dip it in the coolant frequently to keep it cool.

7. Polishing

Polishing helps you to achieve a fine finish on your metal and wood pieces. The material to be polished should be firmly held and moved toward the wheel while ensuring that you maintain a firm grip throughout the process to ensure that the polish is evenly applied. You should, however, be careful when polishing wood material as it can catch fire easily.

Tips for Using a Bench Grinder

Select the right wheel

When using a bench grinder, you want to be accurate as possible while also be comfortable while using it. The first and most important thing is selecting the right wheel for the job. After that, you should set the right speed and guide the workpiece gently into the grinding wheel to achieve the desired results.

Set the Right Speed

As stated, you'll need to make sure you are running the grinder at the right speed based on job requirements. When doing this, you'll need to factor in both the wheel material and the material you are grinding. The wheel tends to overheat when working, and this can make the wheel wear or explode. Although you can use coolants to counter this, the best option is to set the wheel at a slower speed or use a bigger wheel as the bigger the wheel, the slower you need to operate.

Use the grinder upright

For the best results, ensure that you set the grinder upright and that it is tightly secured on the bench so that the wheel does not get displaced. You should also ensure that the wheel is balanced and the tool rest is in place. Clear the area of debris or any other object to ensure that there is enough space to push back and forth the material you are working on.

Use the correct angle

Always use the recommended angle depending on the material and the task you are performing. You'll need to use a sharp angle if you want to produce a sharp edge. However, other tasks such as polishing or sanding may not require as much of an angle.

Coolant

Ensure to dipping your materials in a pan filled with water to help with friction and overheating. With this, you don't have to wait for the metal to cool down while you grind it. You can also use a rolling pan to cool the wheel as it spins, thereby cooling the tool.