Ok I know what you are all going to say "WHERE'S THIS WEEKS TIPS" Well i'm still in the process of compiling more information and pictures I've been flat out at the mom so be patient and bare with me and I promise to have them for you shortly.
But as a prelude to the tips I thought i might post some of the more mundane and boring but vitally important issues about the angle grinder.
So have a read and get familiar and keep an eye out for the tips to come
Cheers Mick
Angle Grinders
Overview
Angle grinders are one of the handiest tools to use. Unfortunately, angle grinders also frequently cause serious injuries among home handymen. Kickback, where the angle grinder disc is thrust away from the object it is grinding, can result in severe cuts to hands, arms, head, torso and legs. Discs can shatter or explode, sending pieces fl ying. Many angle grinder injuries are from metal particles lodging in the operator’s eye. Before Starting Before starting work with an angle grinder, ask yourself the following questions: • Is grinding work necessary? Could a different tool be used with less risk? • Am I using the correct size angle grinder for the job? Is there a risk of losing control of a heavier, more powerful tool? Could a smaller model be used for some or all of the work? • Is the correct disc used for the job, depending on the type of material being worked on and the size of the disc? • Does the guard cover half the disc between the operator and the disc? • Does the grinder have an automatic cut-off or "deadman" switch as part of the hand grip, ensuring power is cut off as soon as fi nger pressure is released? Deadman switch kits are available for older models. (A deadman switch may not be appropriate for certain tasks with small angle grinders.) Safe Work Practices Do not attempt any tasks with an angle grinder without following safety procedures. The following will help protect against injury: 1. Always wear safety goggles to avoid eye injuries caused by fl ying debris and sparks from angle grinders. 2. When operating the angle grinder, be careful that the sparks don’t hit you or anyone else. Sparks can cause burns, eye injuries, wear out clothing and even set clothes on fi re. 3. Keep a fi rm grip when using your angle grinder. 4. Ensure the safety guard on your angle grinder is positioned between the cutting blade and your hands. Never remove the guard. 5. Wear ear protection to prevent ear damage from grinder noise. 6. Don’t let the grinding discs wear below the recommended safety limits as they may shatter. 7. The switches on angle grinders are sensitive and can be easily knocked into the ‘ON’ position. So when changing blades, switch off the power at the power point and pull the plug out of the socket. 8. Always keep angle grinders and other power tools in a locked cupboard, well out of the reach of children. Electrical Safety Angle grinders should be checked for electrical safety before every use to ensure that: • there are no breaks or damage to the machine’s outer body; • all screws are tight; • brush caps are intact and fi rmly in position; • the sheathing of fl exible cord is held fi rmly at the tool; • there are no exposed wires; • cords are in good condition, free from cuts and breaks; • plugs and extension cords are free from cuts or damage.