So, you got yourself a new angle grinder. First of all, congratulations! You are on the right path to becoming a self-aware DIY-er. But it came with all these accessories and you might be quite confused about their purpose.
But fear not fellas, that’s precisely why I’ve put together this rather short guide on essential angle grinder accessories and their purpose.
1) Cutting Discs: They’re Not Just Frisbees
Without a doubt, the most popular attachment that you’ll find hanging out with the angle grinder crew is the cutting disc. It’s slim, it’s sharp, and it cuts through metal like a hot knife through butter.
These are available in a delightful variety of sizes to cater to your specific needs. Do you need to cut through a forest of metal piping? Or perhaps to cut your neighbor’s water source because his dog left feces on your porch? No problem! Grab a large, heavy-duty cutting disc and let it loose. Or perhaps you’re performing a more delicate operation, like a jeweler crafting a diamond. In that case, a smaller, more precise disc is your best friend.
Just remember, safety first! No, seriously. These things can cause a lot of damage if not handled properly. Think of them as very dangerous, metal Frisbees.
2) Grinding Discs: From Rough to Buff
Next up, we have the grinding discs. These guys are the heavy lifters in the disc world. They’re thicker, tougher, and ready to grind away at your toughest problems.
These discs are designed to take the rough and make it smooth. From removing excess weld to shaping metal, they’re here to transform your raw materials into the polished final product. Once again, they come in a plethora of sizes and grits, so you can match your disc to your task.
Think of them as your personal DIY masseuse, smoothing out all those tough knots and tension points in your metalwork.
3) Flap Discs: The Jack of All Trades
Are you looking for more versatility? Say hello to the flap disc. This attachment is the Swiss Army Knife of the angle grinder world.
Not only can it grind, but it can also smooth and finish your workpiece. Crazy, right? Coming with overlapping layers of abrasive-coated, flexible material, flap discs are designed to wear away, exposing fresh abrasive layers beneath. It’s like a never-ending gobstopper, but for grinding.
Just be sure not to get too carried away with the convenience and try to make your flap disc do everything. Remember, a jack of all trades is often a master of none.
Also, if you find yourself trying to use the tool with one hand (this can be the case with especially small grinders), just… don’t. It’s a hazard.
4) Wire Wheels and Brushes: Detailing Like a Pro
Last, but certainly not least, we have the wire wheels and brushes. If your project involves cleaning rust or removing paint, these attachments will make you feel like Cinderella, scrubbing away the grime and revealing the beauty beneath.
What’s the difference between the two? Well, the wire wheels are perfect for larger areas, while brushes are great for getting into those nooks and crannies. The type of wire – brass, steel, or stainless steel – can be chosen based on the hardness of the material you’re working with.
Safety bonus tip: I strongly recommend wearing protective goggles and gear with your angle grinder work. You can also check our article on safety precautions and tips when working with an angle grinder.
The Bottom Line
Well, I guess that’s all she wrote. In my humble opinion, those are the most essential angle grinder accessories and how to use them properly. Now that you are familiar with the purpose of each disc, grab one and start cookin’!