Blackwoods Expert+

Getting the choice of industrial grinder right

Written by Chicago Pneumatic | 28 January 2026

In manufacturing environments, industrial angle grinders are indispensable. They play a vital role in processes ranging from metal fabrication to producing building materials, handling tasks such as weld seam removal, fettling, chamfering, deburring, and contour shaping. However, performance and safety can vary significantly between different grinders.

Selecting the wrong tool doesn’t just reduce efficiency, it can compromise quality of the finished product, lead to unnecessary downtime and increase risks for operators.

The challenges of using angle grinders.

At first glance, angle grinding looks simple. In reality, it’s a demanding process that can be difficult to do cleanly, efficiently and safely. Using a tool that’s too heavy, underpowered or poorly matched to the abrasive disc can reduce output. Discs can burst if incorrectly fitted or applied.

Too much vibration can contribute to hand arm vibration syndrome (HAVS). Excess noise can increase risk of hearing damage. Sharp edges from poor quality work can cause abrasions and cuts.

The Chicago Pneumatic CP3650 solution.

Chicago Pneumatic has been innovating since 1905, when its tools helped build Chicago’s first skyscrapers. Today, the CP3650 pneumatic grinders reflects that same commitment to performance and safety.

Built for heavy-duty industrial use, the CP3650 combines power, durability and ergonomics in a single package. It supports a wide range of abrasive discs and grinding applications.

Features include:

  • A 1800W (2.4hp) governed motor, enabling longer maintenance intervals.
  • 5”, 5’’ and 6’’ grinding wheel sizes.
  • A powerful air governor which acts like “cruise control,” adjusting the airflow to the load applied on the tool, to maintain optimal abrasive speed and maximise material removal for high quality finishes.
  • A spindle-lock button that allows for fast and easy abrasive disc changes for increased productivity.
  • An exceptional bevel gear life of 2,500 hours.
  • Ergonomically designed with multi-position and two-sides vibration damping side handle as well as a steel swivelling air inlet to help reduce operator fatigue over long shifts.
  • Low vibration to help improve operator comfort and reduce the risk of injury. Sound reduction accessories are also available to decrease the noise level to 11dB(A).
  • Rapid stop feature to enhance operator safety. Once the trigger is released, the grinder takes just a few seconds to stop.

Gwenael Jeanneau worked with Chicago Pneumatic tools for over a decade in Europe. Now he’s the Area Sales Manager (WA&NT) with CI Products, which has the exclusive rights to distribution in Australia. He says there is a greater emphasis on ergonomics and operator comfort than ever before, especially in Australia.

“Operating an angle grinder for hours is tough on the body,” he says. “That’s why low-vibration, low-noise tools are gaining traction across industries here.”

CP3650 grinders in action.

When a large, global customer needed heavy-duty grinders that were also lightweight and comfortable, they tested the CP3650 against their existing equipment. The outcome was clear: productivity improved while operator fatigue dropped. The combination of performance and ergonomics was the deciding factor in the company’s switch to the CP3650.

“These aren’t tools you’ll find at a hardware chain. They’re high-end tools designed for professionals who need reliability, power and safety. Once people try them, they see the difference,” Gwenael says.

Available at Blackwoods - Your manufacturing solutions partner.

As Australia’s leading supplier of industrial solutions, Blackwoods has everything you need to keep your operations running smoothly. To find out more about the CP3650 angle grinder, contact your Blackwoods power tools technical specialist. Stay prepared, because productivity should never be left to chance.

 

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