How to Maintain a Bench Grinder

When maintained properly, a bench grinder is an indispensable tool in a woodworking or metal shop. Like all other tools and equipment, precautions are necessary to prevent injury. Most accidents occur because of poor maintenance, missing guards and maladjustments of the tool rest or safety shields. Regularly scheduled cleaning and maintenance can help ensure that your bench grinder is working safely and efficiently.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Turn off your bench grinder and disconnect it from the power supply before performing cleaning, maintenance or adjustments.

2. Remove all loose debris with an air hose. If you don't have an air hose, a brush will do. Wear protective eye wear to protect your eyes from flying debris.

3. Keep the electrical cord kink free to prevent breaks in the insulation. Inspect the cord frequently and have it replaced by a qualified technician if damaged.

4. Check the grinding wheels for damage and wear before turning on the grinder. Discard wheels if they have chips, cracks, grooves, are rounded, out of round or covered with foreign material. If the wheel vibrates, check the bearings and replace them, if necessary.

5. Ensure that all safety attachments are in place, which should include the wheel guard, tool rest and clear safety shields. They're in place to protect your face and hands in the event that a grinding wheel shatters.

6. Adjust tool rests and spark guards, tightening them securely in place. They should be close to the wheel and adjusted as the disc wears down from use.

Tips & Warnings

• If you replace a grinding wheel, make sure it has a safe RPM rating as high as that of your grinder.
• If your grinder vibrates or makes unfamiliar noises, turn it off, disconnect it from the power source and have a qualified service technician inspect it before using it again.