Whenever a handyman needs to do some polishing, cutting or grinding, he often turns to the angle grinder. This handheld power tool is powered in one of the three possible ways: an electric motor, compressed air or petrol engine. Common components include a geared head, adjustable guard, abrasive disc and a side handle.
These tools can be found commonly in auto garages, metalworking shops and construction sites where they smooth unwanted or excess material, or make notches or cuts as needed. Different angle grinders are used for different materials and activities, so knowing the ins and outs of angle grinders Australia handymen suggest, will help you make the right purchase.
Disc Size
The most important consideration by far when buying angle grinders Australia experts suggest is the disc size. Generally, the greater its size, the more power its motor will have. The sizes greatly vary, with the most popular ones being 115 milimetres and 230 milimetres. In some cases, a handyman may instead use a pneumatic grinder, as they have smaller disc sizes and are better for small jobs and have more precision than standard grinders.
Motor Power
Wattage, amp and voltage ratings can vary in angle grinders. When it comes to current, tool buyers can choose between 110 volts and 230 volts AC, and between wattage ranges from 500 to 2.500 watts. The unit’s amp rating is another consideration, and it can range between 4 and 15. These numbers directly correlate to the motor’s power. Although lower ratings are sufficient for small jobs like household tasks, heavy-duty construction projects call for a grinder with more amps.
Comfort
The two things that affect the comfort of using an angle grinder are weight and size. These two things go hand in hand, and unless you intend to use it for industrial or construction jobs, a smaller unit can be much more comfortable. Not only are compact units easier to work with for longer periods of time, but grinders with anti-vibration handles provide additional comfort as well.
Speed Ratings
The power that these tools have is incredible, and during operation, the disc can make anywhere between 5.000 to 10.000 revolutions per minute. This means that this tool can optimally perform any number of cutting, sanding and grinding tasks, but that also means that it can pose a high risk of injury if not handled properly.
Accessories and Wheels
These are very versatile tools, and not only can their discs be interchanged, but you can also install different accessories and wheels as needed. With the wide variety of brush and wheel attachment styles available, you should carefully read usage and packaging guidelines to make sure you’re purchasing the right tool for the job.