The waterfall looked lop-sided. Carrying a corded angle grinder to that location did not seem logical.
It seemed logical to use a cordless angle grinder.
The logic failed the test of experience. Griding hard stone took a lot of power and time. The batteries in the cordless angle grinder ran out quickly.
A corded angle grinder took about two hours to get the job done.
On another occasion, I had to grind some nails in the attic of our 3500 square feet home. It was nearly impossible to maneuver the cord through all the nukes and crannies in our attic.
My cordless angle grinder was the only practical solution.
I have four angle grinders. Sorry, a force of habit, I just gave one away. I have three angle grinders. Each one does a specific job perfectly.
When looking for one perfect angle grinder, you need to understand that there is no such thing. Decide what jobs you do most and buy a grinder that fits that. Later, you may want to have another and another as I did.
The features below are a reference list that may help you decide.
Contents
Power Supply
Angle grinders are classed into three varieties based on their power source: corded, cordless, and pneumatic.
Although most angle grinders are battery-powered (cordless), there are also corded (electric) and compressed air-driven alternatives. As a result, when purchasing the grinder, think about the power supply.
Battery – Powered (or Cordless)
• A cordless grinder is a valuable tool for completing various onsite tasks.
• The lithium-ion battery and modern brushless electric motors will allow it to work for more extended periods between recharges.
• It has easy access to tight spots, but it has the disadvantage of battery charging, which may cause a pause in your work session for a few hours to recharge again.
• As a result, we always recommend carrying an extra set of batteries when using this cordless angle grinder, especially outside the workshop.
• The most recent models include a quick-charge technology that takes 30 minutes to charge the drained 6 Ah battery.
• It is at least 2–3 pounds heavier than small corded models.
Corded
• Are you looking for a high power output that will last a long time? Then choose a corded angle grinder, as you will not need to recharge or replace the battery.
• Plug the corded grinder into a standard power outlet to get it to work correctly.
• The main advantages of this corded model are its indefinite running time and consistent power.
• When compared to cordless models, they are lightweight and inexpensive.
• Its disadvantage is that it limits the work area because one can only work within the range of its outlet, and there is a slight risk of accidentally sawing into the power cord.
Pneumatic Angle Grinders
• It is a modernized version of the corded electric model, taking the corded model to a whole new level.
• To make the tool work properly, plug it into a suitable air compressor unit.
• It is the lightest and cheapest angle grinder compared to the other two types because it does not use an electric motor or a battery.
• The air pressure will supply the power source, allowing it to run efficiently, but thoroughly inspect it before investing in this model.
Grinder Disc Type
Angle grinders come with various discs or wheels, such as wire discs, cutting discs, flap discs, and grinding discs. However, each disc or wheel serves a particular purpose and depends on the welding task. You must switch them frequently.
• Grinding Discs are 5 mm or thicker in thickness and are used to smooth rough surfaces or remove slag.
• Cutting Discs are the thinnest discs commonly used for metal cutting.
• Flap Discs are sandpaper-coated, making them ideal for creating smooth surfaces.
• Wire Discs aid in the cleaning of sensitive surfaces, allowing you to polish the metal surface without causing it to corrode. They use paint stripping discs to remove rust from metal and old paint from metal or wood surfaces.
Disc Size
The disc or wheel will show the grinder’s power and capacity. Larger discs are utilized for large volume operations, signifying a more potent instrument. These are great for jobs that need a lot of precision or work in small places. So, while choosing a disc size, think about the work you’ll be doing with it. Discs range in size from 4 to 9 inches.
• For DIY projects / general tasks, we must use discs with a disc size of approximately 4 – 4.5 inches. The reason for this is that they can be easily fitted into various surfaces, are simple to use, and are lightweight.
• For industrial use, angle grinders with disc sizes of 9 inches or larger are recommended, depending on the surface type.
Rotation Speed
The speed of the grinder will ultimately determine how well it performs. A typical grinder’s speed ranges from 5000 to 10,000 revolutions per minute. The greater the speed, the greater the likelihood of achieving the desired results. However, it would help if you controlled the speed correctly, which you will learn through experience, or else the entire workpiece may be damaged.
To solve this, use a variable speed angle grinder. This speed setting allows you to adjust the tool’s speed to finish your project. If you don’t have access to this setting, pick a grinder with a range of speeds you can tolerate.
The revolutions per minute (RPM) is also known as no-load speed, and it refers to the fastest rotation a grinder can make without a disc installed. Smaller discs can handle higher RPMs than larger ones.
Motor Power
In general, the grinder’s power will be measured in watts (Watts, W). The input power in corded models is measured in Amps (A). The cordless one’s input voltage is given in volts (V). For pneumatic tools, pounds per square inch is how the pressure is measured. The output power is measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM) (PSI).
In general, a larger wattage does not guarantee that the motor will survive severe friction, heavy use, and other situational stress that a well-used power tool may encounter on the job. On the other hand, high amperage is employed for large projects rather than low power output equivalents.
Novices can begin with 7 – 8 amps and work their way up to standard amps of 9 – 10. High power and large discs are required for heavy projects (such as welding thick tubing). Corded angle grinders are available in 110V and 240V voltages, while rechargeable cordless ones offer the best voltage of 18V.
Weight
In many cases, the tool’s weight determines its usability. A large angle grinder is rarely required, especially for weekend projects. Also, a lightweight grinder will not survive for many years. So always choose an angle grinder weighing between 3 and 10 pounds.
Safety Features
Power tools carry an inherent risk that could be managed but not eliminated by following operational safety protocol.
Gloves, safety glasses, and ear protection are what you can do in addition to following instructions in the user manual.
Some safety features are built into grinders, such as safety guards, disc brakes, locking systems, and switches.
Adjustable Disc Guard
The disc guard, in general, protects the user from flying sparks and other debris while working on a workpiece. In order to protect oneself from flying debris and sparks, you can easily adjust the position of the disc guard.
Disc Brake
We need a brake that is activated by a trigger/paddle to slow or stop the disc. It is a critical safety element; without it, the disc will spin until gravity stops it. Angle grinders run at fast speeds and are dangerous because they lack a trigger/paddle to control them. As a result, having a disc brake will keep you safe.
Locking Functionality
The lock on/lock off feature enables the user to lock and unlock the paddle without depressing the paddle to regulate the grinder’s movement. Specifically designed for those who use this grinder daily. This locks the paddle when the grinder is not used, boosting safety.
Dust Sealed
Grinders produce a lot of dust when operating, and if the dust is not sealed, it can enter into the inner working parts and ruin the motor, and thus the tool. As a result, specific dust protection is necessary, such as a seal or a unique pattern, to keep dust away from the device.
Hand Guard
Handguards are included in some models to protect the user’s hands from sparks and splinters. Adjustable hand guards are also available to adapt the grinder to match the needs of your job.
Spindle Lock
The disc may be easily and rapidly replaced to prevent the spindle from turning by pressing a button. This lock will be useful while tightening or loosening the disc retaining nut.
Vacuum Attachment
I have noticed that when grinders are used, they generate a lot of dust. Manufacturers developed a few models that included vacuum attachments and dust shrouds as a response. This enables you to connect the grinder to a vacuum, which reduces dust in the workplace.
Movable Side Handle
We discovered that when grinders are used, a lot of dust is produced. As a result, manufacturers created a few versions with vacuum attachments. This allows you to connect the grinder to a vacuum, reducing dust in the workplace.
Anti-Vibration Handle
This enables the grinder to be operated for extended periods while remaining comfortable. This improves control and maneuverability while also reducing fatigue.
Switch Type
Pay particular attention to the switch kinds while purchasing grinders. The paddle switches are finger-operated, making them suitable for welders. Slide-up switches should be used if you wish to turn off the grinder conveniently.
Additional Attachments
Here are a few other types of disc attachments that can be used with an angle grinder for various tasks.
- Silicon Carbide Discs – Used to sharpen metal tools, grind down welding, clean sheet metal around the edges of steel pipes, and shape the metal.
- Cutoff Disc – Specifically designed to cut more rigid materials such as bolts, rods, metal pipes, and rebars.
- Sanding Pads – Used to remove old paint as part of the surface preparation process, as well as for coarse and fine sanding.
- Grinding Discs – Ideal for quickly sharpening garden tools and shaping their edges.
- Wire Brush Wheels – Widely used to remove paint and rust and burrs from rough-cut metal surfaces.
- Diamond Cutting Blades – For cutting concrete, masonry, tile, or granite. These diamond blades are suitable for both dry and wet cutting.
- Aluminum Oxide Wheels – This multi-purpose disc is used for woodworking and cutting crumbly materials like particle boards.
- Flap Disc works similarly to a wire brush but has flaps instead of wires. This tool is ideal for blending a weld bead into the rest of the metal. It deburrs rough cuts and finish metal and is used to remove large amounts of wood and a sanding pad.
Angle grinders come in several pricing ranges. This is a reasonably priced choice. So, choose a high-quality, long-lasting angle grinder appropriate for your project. Additionally, seek a manufacturer’s warranty (at least a year) as an optional extra with your purchase.