Grinders

Grinders: what you need to know

Grinders are used not only for removing the old paint from the car body, but also for eliminating small defects of a new coating. With these tools, you can level the welded seams and make the surface of different parts smoother.

What are the types of grinders

By drive type:

• Air grinders. They are actuated by compressed air supplied by a compressor. They almost never get heated, can be used even in conditions of high humidity. For doing a lot of work, you’re going to need a very powerful compressor whose price can be high.
• Electric grinders. Being powered by the mains or battery, they do not require any additional equipment.

By design and application area:

• Belt grinders. These grinders are suitable for fast processing of large areas of the material. Their low centre of gravity gives the user an opportunity to apply minimum force.
• Angle grinders. Suitable for cutting metals, removing corrosion spots, smoothing welded seams. With the help of these tools, you can process even hard-to-reach elements.
• Straight grinders. They are ideal for works which require high precision.
• Orbital grinders. They are used for finish polishing. Triangular base-plate grinders which belong to this category are used for treating corners.
• Random orbital grinders. They are characterised by high performance. Some grinders of this type are comfortable to use for treating convex and concave surfaces.

Manufacturers offer models both for domestic and professional use. The former are relatively inexpensive, while the latter better withstand regular loads.

Operating principle

The desired effect is achieved by treating the surface with abrasive material. Belt devices perform their functions due to the circular motion of the belt, and angle grinders work due to rotation of the head. The latter is attached at a right angle to the shaft. Straight tools differ from angle ones in the fact that the spindle, to which the replaceable elements are attached, is positioned along the device body. Depending on the task to be performed, various heads can be chosen: wired brushes, flap discs, polishing sponges and others.

The design of orbital models may comprise a rectangular or triangular base to which abrasive material is attached with clamps or hook-and-loop fasteners. The device rapidly makes circular movements that create vibrations. In random orbital grinders, the axis of disk rotation and the axis of the shaft do not coincide. The treatment is done due to the rotational and linear motion.

Tips on using grinders

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions, choose consumables in compliance with the product specifications. Avoid applying force against the device in order not to damage the workpiece. Don’t forget to clean the particles of the processed material from it. If a dust bag comes with the device, empty it regularly.

If you’re working with plastic, set the minimum speed. Thus, you’ll minimize the risk of overheating which might lead to damage. Occasionally make sure that the head is securely attached. It is recommended to use a soft cloth to clean the device body. Do not use solvents for this purpose.

AUTODOC: convenient online shopping

In our catalogue, there is a wide assortment of products needed for car maintenance and repair. Thanks to the mobile application of the AUTODOC online store, you can order grinders, replaceable heads for them, and other products - via your smartphone, from any convenient place. Become our customer, keep up with the promotions that take place on our website, and make only advantageous online purchases.