How to Mount a Grinding Wheel

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Things You'll Need

  • Lockout tag

  • Adjustable wrench

  • Wood-handled screwdriver

  • Flange set

  • Blotters

Grinding wheels attach to the flanged spindles of a bench grinder. Correct installation of the grinding wheel(s) is essential to the safety of the person operating the grinder. This includes matching the spindle rotating speed to the maximum rotating speed of the grinding wheel. Performing a "ring" test on the grinding wheel prior to installation ensures the wheel contains no cracks or other flaws in density.

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Step 1

Unplug the bench grinder. Secure a lockout tag over the grinder switch set.

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Step 2

Push the locking button to keep the grinder motor from spinning. Turn the nut holding the grinding wheel to the grinder counterclockwise with an adjustable wrench. Spin the nut off the spindle. Pull the old grinding wheel off the grinder.

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Step 3

Read the spindle rotation speed marked on the steel plate mounted to the front face of the grinder. Select a grinding wheel that has the same speed rating as the grinder.

Step 4

Balance the grinding wheel on a finger or on the floor. Tap the grinding wheel lightly with the handle of a wooden-handled screwdriver. Listen to the ringing sound emitted by the grinding wheel. Spin the grinding wheel 1/4 of its circumference and repeat the process. Continue spinning and tapping the grinding wheel. Discard the grinding wheel if you hear the "ringing" sound varies at any point during the "ring" test.

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Step 5

Slide one flange onto the spindle. Slide a blotter against the flange (if required). Push the grinding wheel against the blotter. Slide another blotter and then a flange against the grinding wheel. Thread the nut onto the spindle. Tighten the nut with an adjustable wrench. Only tighten the nut to the point the grinding wheel holds secure on the bench grinder.

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Step 6

Remove the lockout tag from the grinder switch set. Plug in the bench grinder. Clear the area of all personnel. Turn on the bench grinder. Turn off the bench grinder and readjust the wheel if it wobbles or begins to crack.

Warning

Wear gloves and eye protection when changing a grinding wheel.

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