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Safety Advice When Using Cutting-off and Grinding Wheels

Picture of Flexovit Flexovit : 8 February 2022

For your safety you should ensure that you are fully aware of how to safely use cutting-off and grinding wheels. Here are the do's and don'ts for the safe use of these abrasives.

Cutting-off and grinding wheels are safe if used correctly.

  • Always handle and store wheels carefully. All cutting and grinding wheels should be placed on top of each other or stored in the original packaging.
  • Always visually inspect all wheels before mounting for possible damage in transit.
  • Always use a safety guard and ensure that it is correctly positioned and securely fitted.
  • ​lt should cover at least one half of the wheel and protect the operator in the unlikely event of a wheel breakage.
  • Always switch ‘OFF’ the power at supply source and/or remove the plug from the socket before changing the wheel.
  • Always use the tools supplied by the machine manufacturer to change the wheel.
  • Always ensure that the speed of the machine does not exceed the operating speed marked on the wheel.
  • Allow newly mounted wheels to run at operating speed, with the guard in place, for a reasonable time before cutting or grinding.
  • Always wear EYE PROTECTION.
  • Always wear appropriate safety clothing such as DUST MASK, GLOVES, EAR PROTECTION, OVERALLS AND SAFETY SHOES.
  • Always secure the workpiece firmly while it is being cut or ground.
  • Grind at an angle above 30 degrees to the workpiece with a depressed centre grinding wheel.
  • Keep the working area around cutting and grinding operations clear.

Cutting-off and grinding wheels are dangerous if abused.

  • Store wheels in a damp atmosphere or in extreme temperatures.
  • Mount a damaged wheel.
  • EVER exceed the maximum operating speed marked on the wheel.
  • Force a wheel onto a machine spindle.
  • Tighten the mounting nut or locking flange excessively. Doing so can distort the flanges.
  • Use a machine which is not in good mechanical condition.
  • Use a machine without a wheel guard.
  • Use wheels without proper ventilation or dust protection equipment.
  • Stop the wheel by applying pressure to the periphery or face. Always switch the machine off and allow the wheel to stop revolving.
  • Allow the wheel to be trapped or pinched in the cut.
  • Apply excessive pressure onto the wheel so that the driving motor slows down.
  • Grind on the side of cutting-off wheels.
  • Grind with a depressed centre grinding wheel at an angle below 30° to the workpiece.

    SHOP FLEXOVIT
    Flexovit

 

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