Angle grinders are very versatile tools which

By changing the wheels or accessories, the said tool can be used to perform a wide range of tasks in metalworking and construction. They are used both for removing excess material and for simple cutting jobs. They can even be used for wood carving and sculpting by attaching a special wheel developed for just that purpose.

Here are some less common uses for the angle grinder:

1. Sharpening blades: Cutting edges of various tools like lawn mower blades, axes, hatchets etc. can be sharpened using the grinder by attaching a grinding wheel. It can also be used to sharpen the edges of tools like ice scrapers, shovels or hoes. The grinding wheel is to be aligned with the blade angle and moved across the blade while applying steady light pressure.

Safety: Make sure the sparks are deflected away from your body and inflammable materials by using the blade guard. Overheating the metal is very common when using the grinder. This causes it to change colour and lose its sharpness easily. To avoid this, keep moving the grinding wheel while applying light pressure and wet the metal surface frequently with a rag or sponge.

2. Cleaning metal: Using a wire wheel or wire brush, the angle grinder can quickly remove flaking paint, rust, cement or caked mud from metallic surfaces. Use brushes for cleaning broad, flat surfaces and wire wheels for cleaning crevices or corners.

Safety: The surface to be cleaned should be secured using a vice or a clamp. Always ensure that the brush is spinning away from the edge to avoid sudden kickback.

3. Removing mortar: Using a diamond tuckpointing wheel, old or excess mortar can be removed without damaging the bricks. It is much faster than the traditional method of using a chisel and hammer. Two or three quick passes should be enough to completely clear a joint. It can also be used to remove mortar from old bricks so that they can be reused.

Safety: Wear face masks, safety goggles and gloves to avoid the fine dust.

These are only a few uses for the versatile angle grinder from Makita tools. Visit your nearest Gasweld store to see the selection of accessories and wheels.