• What should you know before working with a surface grinder?
• What are some basic safety principles to know when using a surface grinder?
• What are some things you should avoid doing?

What should you know before working with a surface grinder?

Surface grinders can be dangerous if not used properly.

• Read the owner's manual carefully.
• Make sure you understand instructions and are properly trained before operating a surface grinder.

Refer to Metalworking Machines - General for basic safety tips.

Also refer to Abrasive Wheels for further information.

What are some basic safety principles to know when using a surface grinder?

• Wear appropriate safety glasses. In addition, use the eye shield on the grinder, when provided.
• Ensure that the grinder has a start/stop button within easy reach of the operator.
• Check the grinding wheel before mounting it. Make sure it is properly maintained and in good working order.
• Follow the manufacturer's instructions for mounting grinding wheels.
• Keep face of the wheel evenly dressed.
• Ensure that the wheel guard covers at least one half of the grinding wheel.

• File off any burrs on the surface of work that is placed on the magnetic chuck.
• Clean the magnetic chuck with a cloth and then wipe with the palm of your hand.
• Place a piece of paper slightly larger than workpiece in the centre of chuck.
• Position work on the paper and turn on the power to the magnetic chuck.
• Check that the magnetic chuck has been turned on by trying to remove work from the chuck.
• Check that the wheel clears the work before starting the grinder.
• Run a new grinding wheel for about one minute before engaging the wheel into the work.
• Stand to one side of the wheel before starting the grinder.
• Turn off coolant before stopping the wheel to avoid creating an out-of-balance condition.
• Keep the working surface clear of scraps, tools and materials.
• Keep the floor around the grinder clean and free of oil and grease.

What are some things you should avoid doing?

• Do not run a grinding wheel faster than the speed recommended on the wheel.
• Do not clean the magnetic chuck or mount or remove work until the wheel has completely stopped.
• Do not grind material for which wheel is not designed.
• Do not grind without proper ventilation.
• Do not start the machine until the wheel guard is in place.
• Do not stand directly in front of a grinding wheel when starting a grinder.
• Do not apply work too quickly to a cold wheel or disk.
• Do not jam work into the wheel.
• Do not reach above or around a moving wheel.

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Document confirmed current on March 30, 2011

Document last updated on August 21, 2001

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