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Do’s and Don'ts For Abrasive Grinding Wheel Safety

Do’s and Don'ts For Abrasive Grinding Wheel Safety

Grinders and grinding wheels have been in use for more than a century and, when used properly, are secure and reliable instruments. Most accidents involving these products have been caused by misuse. Following these Dos and Don'ts for abrasive Grinding Wheels safety is a crucial step in preventing wheel breakage and damage.

DO’S

DON’TS

  • DO Always be careful when handling and storing wheels.
  • Don't enlarge the mounting hole or try to push a wheel onto the machine. Get a different wheel if the one you have won't fit the machine.
  • DO Make sure the machine's operating speed does not exceed the speed indicated on the wheel, its blotter, or its container.
  • DON’T drive the wheel faster than the recommended maximum operating speed.
  • DO adhere to ANSI guidelines and utilize mounting blotters.
  • DON’T USE mounting flanges with bearing surfaces that aren't spotless, level, and smooth.
  •  DO Verify that the mounting flanges are the proper diameter, relaxed where needed, and of equal size.
  • DON’T turn on the equipment, before making sure the safety guard is installed correctly and securely.
  • DO make sure to visually check all of the wheels for any damage before installing
  • DON’T  use a wheel that has been dropped or seems to have been mistreated.
  • DO Ensure that the work rest on the bench, pedestal, and floor stand grinders is properly adjusted.
  • Don't overtighten the mounting nut.
  •  DO Use a safety guard that at least covers half (1/2) of the abrasive wheel at all times.
  • DON’T use a wheel on a machine that wasn't intended to use for that particular use.
  • DO let newly installed wheels run at operating speed for at least a minute with the guard in place, before grinding.
  • DON’T operate grinders without a MAX RPM speed indication.
  • DO switch off the coolant before halting the wheel, to avoid creating an unbalanced situation.
  • Don't grind the sides of straight, conventional, or Type 1 wheels.
  •  DO READ the machine's directions, cautions, and manual.
  • DON’T  let anyone who is not trained handle, mount, store, or even use wheels.
  • Do abide by all applicable laws, both national and local.
  • Don't remove or alter any guards. ALWAYS wear a suitable guard.
  • DO always use safety glasses or another form of approved eye protection when cutting or grinding.
  • DON'T use wheels, if there are combustible materials around
  •  DO VERIFY that the machine arbor fits the wheel hole or threads properly.
  • DON’T stand right in front of a cutting or grinding wheel when a machine is running.
  • DO use two hands to firmly grip the grinder.
  • DON’T stuff the wheel with tasks.
  • Do read the safety data sheet for the workpiece and the wheel's materials.
  • DON’T cut or grind anything that the wheel is not made to handle.

 

To avoid workplace accidents, please be sure to abide by the safety recommendations given above. It can be dangerous for both the operator and the person nearby if safety procedures are not implemented.

Previous article Kevin Stone (@metal_sculptor_kevin_stone)

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