Bench grinders are remarkable pieces of equipment. They are not the kind that attracts the average handyman, but they are used quite extensively by woodworkers, metal workers, construction specialists and by anyone who specifically needs them to repair or sharpen their tools. So what does a bench grinder do that makes it so invaluable?
For starters they are incredibly cost efficient, saving people both time and money and are used instead of replacing expensive tool sets. Bench grinders are an essential tool that is found mostly in workshops and metal shops.
They can be utilized for a wide range of functions, and since they are workbench tools, they can be used on both large and small projects.
Basically, a bench grinder is a two-wheeled system that can:
- Sharpen tools and equipment that have become dull
- Fix broken steel blades
- Polish and fix up small pieces of metal
A bench grinder is a form of machinery that is prone to being delicate. On either side of the main body is a wheel that’s made of stone and possess varying levels of grit.
The stone is very porous which means that they can be very good at ‘chipping’ at the metal. The stones come with different grit levels that make it easy to grind smaller metal pieces in one go.
And one stone can repair several tools without ever needing to replace that particular body part.
Each wheel has a fixed rotating speed set by the factory. When it is amalgamated with the proper wheel grit, they can quickly sharpen and repair tools.
Each wheel is extremely delicate and can move at high speeds, which means the grinder is also prone to shattering and fracturing. People using these machines must be careful not to overdo it.
The levels of grit in the stone need to duplicate the speed of the rotation. If they are too slow, the stone or the metal may fracture.
Using the same stone grit for varying types of metal can also inadvertently damage the grinder. People who use them have to acquaint themselves with a few handling issues before using them.
Who Uses Them?
Any person needing a refined bench polisher, a metal shaper or a grinder could find a bench grinder beneficial. Woodworkers particularly like bench grinders because they can sharpen their woodworking kits.
Woodworking kits are comprised of precision-type tools, so bench grinders keep these sharp and in good order.
The same applies to construction specialists who also use bench grinders for shaping metal roof panels, metal piping sections and even polishing. Any skill based individual can also find a bench grinder useful.
The homeowner who does the odd plumbing job or handy work around the home could also utilize a bench grinder and save themselves a few dollars.
Why A Bench Grinder Is An Essential Tool?
A good bench grinder is fundamental in the metalworking process. The system of adjusting various parts needs to be simplified to the point that the ongoing metalwork is properly taken care of.
Grinders with different grit stones make it incredibly easy to shape a lot of similar metal pieces in one set saving the hassle of changing stones and exchanging it for another grit level.
Bench grinders come in varying sizes. Most of them are priced quite low, and equipment within that budget range are not very different in features.
Once the price of the grinder reaches a few hundred dollars, there is a considerable difference in benefits.
The main point of distinction is the speed of the rotation and how quickly you can adjust the wheels. The most common standard of speed a wheel can rotate is 3500 RPMs and, at that speed, it can heat up quite quickly when grinding the metal.
Compared to a power grinder, the process of polishing and buffing is a whole lot better too. It is much easier to control because of its sedentary setup. The metal worker can opt to stand or sit.
Before assessing the basis of the setup, the worker has to be very confident that they can sit or stand for a period of time. Damage can be caused by changing positions and can possibly be a health and safety risk factor.
What are the Different Types Of Bench Grinders?
There are four styles of bench grinders that are frequented by woodworkers and metalworkers.
Variable Speed Bench Grinder
The main feature of this type of grinder is the function of various speeds that relate to control and flexibility. With a host of different speeds, this type of bench grinder aids in handling the metal through touch.
This means you don’t have to apply pressure and can keep the metal work process properly focused.
Electric Bench Grinders
Electric bench grinders are usually portable and easily transportable. They can be used in the home as well as on project sites.
If you want to work on a piece of metal on the fly, this sort of grinder would be ideal. In addition, it is self-sufficient and can handle quite a lot of projects.
Woodworking Bench Grinders
Woodworking bench grinders require a precision-based skillset. The grinder must be capable of cutting within a half centimeter of accuracy—that precise. With this in mind, slower grinders work perfectly for the woodworker’s toolset.
Automotive Bench Grinders
This kind of bench grinder is far more robust and secure. As a tool for the automotive industry, it needs to be stable and withstand a lot of metal work.
It is often used to grind, polish and buff body pieces, door handles, engine parts, and so much more. Because of its stableness, it is often used on much larger projects.
What Does A Bench Grinder Do: Conclusion
By now, you probably have a pretty comprehensive idea what does a bench grinder do. Bench grinders are a useful tool to have in your arsenal. Provided you take care to change the wheel grit and use it properly, there are huge benefits of using them, like saving money and time.
As a professional tool, it offers a stable and essential machine that will see them through the duration of a project and can deliver precision and a polished finish.
