The primary function of an angle grinder is to grind material such as metal, by adding other accessories you have the ability to cut metal & masonry, remove rust & paint even carves timber. Angle grinders are one of the most abused tools on the market and it is imperative you select the correct one for the job at hand.

RATINGS

The main ways angle grinders are rated are: Disc diameter, Power, Speed, Body size.

DISC DIAMETER: The main disc sizes for angle grinders in Australia are 100mm, 115mm, 125mm & 230mm. The larger the disc diameter the greater the cutting depth.

POWER: Typical power ranges for angle grinders are 550w to 2300w

SPEED: The smaller angle grinders run at approximately 10,000rpm where the larger 230mm angle grinders run at approximately 6,500rpm

BODY SIZE: There are three basic body sizes for angle grinders, SAG, MAG & LAG, these stand for small, medium & large, the larger the unit the heavier ti is to hold.

SAG MAG LAG

• SAG " these are small angle grinders where you grip the body of the tool
• MAG " these are medium angle grinders and have a rear handle to grip onto
• LAG " these are large angle grinders with a large rear handle to grip onto

WHO USES ANGLE GRINDERS?

Builders, Farmers, Renovators, DIYers, Maintenance (hospitals, schools) Welders, Fabricators.

KEY FEATURES

• Multi position side handle
• Spindle lock
• Rotating rear handle
• Tool free guard
• Variable speed

MULTI POSITION SIDE HANDLE " most angle grinders have three positions in which you can secure the side handle for left or right handed use and greater comfort when the grinder is used in cutting mode.

SPINDLE LOCK " when changing your accessories by depressing the spindle lock you only require one spanner making it easier and quicker.

ROTATING REAR HANDLE " this feature is found mainly on large angle grinders and is used when in cutting mode. By rotating the rear handle the angle grinder your hands are in a more comfortable and safer position to cut the material.

TOOL FREE GUARD " the guard is designed to deflect the debris away from you, again when in cutting mode you will have to change the position of the guard and this can be done quickly if the angle grinder has a tool free guard.

VARIABLE SPEED " some angle grinders are fitted with a variable speed switch, by reducing the speed of the angle grinder it allows you to now use it as a sander

WHAT ACCESSORIES CAN I FIT TO MY ANGLE GRINDER?

• Cutting & grinding discs " cutting & grinding metal & masonry
• Wire cup wheels " removing rust
• Sanding discs " removing paint
• Carving blades " carving timber
• Diamond wheels " cutting masonry
• Cutting stands " greater stability & safety when cutting
• Wall chasing attachments " creating grooves in concrete for pipes to be laid

SAFETY TIPS

Always use the side handle supplied with the tool Never use your angle grinder without the guard in place Ensure you use the correct safety equipment (safety glasses, ear protection, gloves & dust mask) Check all grinding & cutting wheels for cracks prior to use, if a crack is present do not use The accessory should suit the tool being used, check the rpm rating on the accessory & the tool