Grinding and cutting equipment overview

Grinding and Cutting Equipment: An Overview

In this section, we’re going to look at common grinding and cutting methods by exploring the types of equipment you may encounter in workshops and on site. Understanding how these machines work, and what they are designed for, helps you make safer and more effective choices when selecting discs and wheels.

Bench Grinders

A bench grinder is a popular piece of workshop equipment used for shaping, smoothing, sharpening, and removing burrs. Bench grinders can be configured with solid grinding wheels, and these wheels come in different ratings and specifications depending on the material and task.

Many bench grinders can also be fitted with wire wheels for tasks such as cleaning, rust removal, and surface preparation. This is just one example of a bench grinder, but there are many sizes and styles available.

Bench Grinders with Built-In Accessories

Some bench grinders include additional features such as built-in work lights to improve visibility. Others may include a combined setup, for example where one side is a grinding wheel and the other side is a belt sander. This allows the machine to be used for multiple finishing and preparation tasks.

Chop Saws (Cut-Off Saws)

A chop saw, sometimes referred to as a cut-off saw, is designed for accurate, controlled cutting. It is commonly used for cutting different materials and offers a high level of precision. As well as straight cuts, many chop saws can also be set to cut at different angles, which makes them easier to use for repeatable, accurate work compared to handheld cutters.

Handheld Angle Grinders

Handheld equipment is also widely used, particularly the battery-powered angle grinder. Angle grinders can be fitted with different attachments depending on the task. For example, a grinder may be fitted with a cutting disc, but you can also use different sized discs or flat wheels for sanding, cleaning, or removing paint.

These machines range from smaller tools used for light work through to larger nine-inch grinders, and even bigger cutting tools designed for heavy-duty applications such as cutting concrete.

Key Safety Principle: Correct Wheel or Disc for the Correct Machine

Although the machines vary, the key safety message stays the same. When working with abrasive wheels and cutting discs, the most important factor is ensuring the correct wheel or disc is fitted to the correct machine.

Never force a disc or wheel to fit a machine. If it is not specifically designed for that tool, do not use it. Always use the correct accessory for the equipment, ensure you understand how it should be used, and follow all manufacturer instructions and workplace safety guidance.