What is a grinder and what is it used for?

Jan. 24, 2025

When we talk about essential power tools, the angle grinder is not always the first one that comes to mind, although its functions are essential in many DIY projects. In this article we explain what an angle grinder is and what it is used for, since we often do not take it into account.

What is a grinder?

A grinder is a tool that can be electric or cordless (the latter is battery-powered). It is hand-held and designed for both industrial and domestic work. Depending on the type of grinder, the electric motor, which is quite powerful, can be located in different parts of the tool.

The most important part of a grinder is its cutting disc. This disc, which rotates at a very high speed, does almost all the work, so it is essential to select the right disc depending on the task you are going to perform. The mechanism of a grinder is simple: the motor rotates the disc at high speed to cut, sand or polish the material you are working on.

There are two main types of grinders: electric ones, which are used more in industrial settings, and battery-powered grinders, ideal for DIY jobs at home.

What is a grinder used for?

Now that you know what a grinder is and how it works, we'll tell you about the most common uses of this tool in DIY and industry.

- Sanding: For sanding work, the best option is the straight grinder. Depending on the type of material you're working on, you'll need to choose a disc or sandpaper with a specific grit.

- Polishing: It's also possible to use a grinder for polishing and buffing tasks, especially on materials like marble or granite. With the right disc, you can achieve shiny, professional finishes.

- Cutting: If you need to cut materials, a regular grinder is what you need. Its thin disc allows for precise cuts in a wide variety of materials, including wood, metal, and plastic.

- Stripping: The grinder is also useful for removing material residue or residue that cannot be removed manually. It is ideal for stripping jobs, offering an efficient and safe result.

- Grinding: This tool allows you to remove residue that is stuck to a material, in a process called grinding. It is especially used when the residue is difficult to remove manually, achieving a clean and uniform surface.

Conclusion

The grinder is a versatile tool that has applications in many types of work, from cutting and sanding to grinding and polishing. It is important that you choose the right disc according to the material and the task you are performing to get the best results. Whether you use it for DIY projects at home or industrial work, the grinder is a must-have tool that should not be missing from your workshop.