Play It Safe at the Wheel

Techniques for the safe operation of Type 27 depressed center grinding wheels.

Type 27 wheels have been in service for over 50 years. When used correctly, they are a safe and effective tool. Accidents with this product have been related to misuse and abuse. One important way of avoiding wheel breakage and injury is to follow these guidelines for Type 27 grinding wheels.For proper usage:

• Check all wheels for cracks or damage before use.
• Check machine speed against established safe operating speed marked on the wheel.
• Mount the wheel only on vertical and angle grinders.
• Use the proper mounting equipment with the wheels. Use specially designed mounting adaptors provided by the tool or wheel manufacturer on all 7 in and 9 in wheels.
• Use the side handle furnished with the machine.
• Always use the properly adjusted wheel guard furnished with the grinder.
• Run the grinding wheel in a protected area for one minute before grinding.
• Maintain your tools as if your life depends on it.
• Always handle and store grinding wheels carefully.
• Use all wheels at the proper grinding angle(s).
• Wear proper personal protection such as eye and face protection, apron, gloves, safety shoes, etc.
• Direct the spark stream (shower) away from anyone’s face or body, and shield bystanders.
• Follow any symbols and warnings located on the wheel.
• Review all applicable Material Safety Data Sheets before using a grinding wheel.
• Comply with ANSI B7.1, OSHA and all safety materials provided with the wheels and the tools.
• Visit the abrasive manufacturer’s website for additional safety information.
• Contact your abrasive manufacturer if you have any safety questions.

Improper usage includes:

• Using the grinding wheel on pistol-grip air sanders or any tool not specially design and guarded for Type 27, depressed center wheels.
• Don’t use wheels that have been dropped or damaged.
• Don’t use excessive side pressure while grinding.
• Don’t exceed the speed marked on the grinding wheel.
• Don’t use on any machine NOT equipped with the proper wheel guard.
• Don’t remove the side handle furnished with the tool.
• Don’t create a fire hazard, shield any nearby flammable materials to prevent ignition from the spark stream (shower) or from latent sparks.
• Don’t jam the wheel into the work.
• Don’t use the wheel as a pry bar.
• Don’t pinch the wheel.
• Don’t use this wheel if you haven’t reviewed all of the safety materials and haven’t been properly trained in the use of the tool and wheel.

The industry has witnessed a recent expansion by manufacturers of depressed center wheels offering for right angle grinding, making high-performance enhancements and introducing new products and features within their broad line.

For additional information on this topic or any other grinding-wheel safety information, please review ANSI, OSHA and literature provided by the grinding wheel and machine manufacturer.