Bench cutter grinder

Types of bench cutter grinders

A bench cutter grinder is a powerful tool used mostly in metalworking but also in woodworking and other industries. It is available in several types to meet different cutting needs.

• Concave cutter grinder

  Also known as the hollowfaced or dish-type grinder, the concave grinder has a curved surface that helps create hollow shapes in the cutting tool. It is the most common type of bench grinder and is used to sharpen various cutting tools, including hooks, chisels, and hand saws. This type of cutter grinder may have a large diameter or small, which determines the size of the concave it creates.

• Bench plasma cutter

  This metal grinder cutter is often used with plasma-cutting machines. The plasma machine uses controlled electrical flow to cut through metals. It can cut metal quickly and with precision when properly grounded. Cutting metal requires preparation. Steel is often used as a backup sheet behind the material to ensure proper grounding. Common backup materials include concrete, wood, or rubber. Do not use a metal sheet as a backup for rubber or fiberglass, as it is an insulator. A bench metal cutter can also make smooth, fast cuts with little fire when used with the grinder.

• Horizontal bandsaw cutter

  A horizontal bandsaw uses a long and continuous sawing blade looped around two vertically placed wheels. It is called a band due to the shape it takes while in motion. Band saws come in both horizontal and vertical orientations. It consists of a saw head that moves back and forth on a column. The horizontal bandsaw has a high cutting capacity and works extremely fast with high accuracy in cutting metal. This makes it an ideal choice in various industries.

Specifications & Maintenance

Specifications for bench grinder cutters may vary based on model, type, and manufacturer. The table below highlights some common specifications for a bench cutter grinder:

• Motor Power: A bench cutter grinder motor powers and drives the cutting blades. They may have different power ratings, from 0.5 Hp to 15 Hp. The motor power is typically in horsepower or watts.
• Speed: The rotational speed of a bench cutter grinder is measured in revolutions per minute (RPM). It indicates how fast the cutting blades rotate. The speed of some grinders can be 2,000 to 3,000 RPM or higher. A higher speed allows faster cutting and surface finishing. Some grinders have multiple speed settings for different applications.
• Cutting Capacity: This refers to the maximum size or dimension of material a bench cutter grinder can handle. It may be as high as 12 inches, depending on the design and type of the grinder. Cutting capacity is also based on the diameter of the cutting blade. The capacity determines the size and suitability of the machine for specific cutting jobs.
• Noise Level: Bench cutter grinders are powerful machines, and their operation can produce a lot of noise. The noise level of a cutter grinder measures in decibels (dB). It may range from 90 dB to 120 dB or more. Prolonged exposure to noise levels above 85 dB can be harmful to hearing. Therefore, users should wear hearing protection like earmuffs or earmolds while operating.

Users should carry out regular maintenance on their bench cutter grinder to keep it in good working condition. With minimal maintenance, these machines can last many years without breaking down. Here are some simple maintenance tips:

• Inspect the machine often for any loose or damaged parts. Make immediate repairs to fix issues found during the inspection.
• Have the motor power washed regularly to remove built-up dirt, debris, and dust.
• Lubricate parts that move and pivot often like bearings, belts, and cutting blades to keep them running smoothly.
• Keep the work area free of accumulated debris and dust for safety and to prevent fire hazards.

Usage scenarios of bench cutter grinders

Industrial bench top grinders are powerful tools for various applications. In high-affinity manufacturing industries like cutlery and tool-making, these machines are primarily used to achieve sharp and highly polished edges and improve product quality.

In metals, woodworking and construction industries, heavy-duty bench grinders are widely used to sharpen and polish tools, including drill bits, chisels, blades, and gauges.

Machinists, mechanics and technicians in the automotive and machinery repair sectors use bench grinders for various purposes, such as small-scale metal cutting, deburring, repairs and sharpening of precision tools and instruments.

Oxford bench grinders with cutters are also widely used in the arts and jewelry-making industry to give jewelry pieces their signature and well-known polished finish. Before assembly or finalization, these machines can also smoothen and polish raw and unrefined cuttings.

Glass cutting and engraving companies also rely heavily on specialized bench grinders to etch designs onto glass surfaces precisely.

In the construction industry, bench grinders are used to smoothen and polish joints, achieving a superior finish and high-standard, refined construction projects.

Another well-known use of bench grinders across different industries is the manufacturing and production of zirconia and diamond tools.

How to Choose Bench Cutter Grinders

When choosing a bench cutter grinder, it's essential to understand its specifications and what they mean for its performance.

• Motor Power: The power of the motor affects the cutting capability. More robust motors can cut through denser materials. Consider the materials to be cut and their thickness.
• Blade Material and Type: The blade must suit the material being ground. Diamond blades are tougher and last longer but are more expensive. For metals, one should consider using an alloy steel blade with carbide teeth.
• Speed: Speed is measured in revolutions per minute (RPM). More speed can lead to smoother and quicker cuts. However, faster speeds can generate more heat, which may affect the material being cut.
• Cutting Capacity: This refers to the maximum dimensions that the grinder can cut. It includes the length, width, and depth. Always match the capacity with the user's cutting needs.
• Construction Material: The housing of the cutter grinder is usually made of aluminum alloy or cast iron. Metal benches are usually more stable, durable, and suitable for industrial use. Plastic-styled ones are portable but more delicate.
• Dividers and Scales: Many bench cutter grinders come with dividers and scales that assist users in measuring and cutting materials with precision. Investing in a machine with these features will enable one to take accurate measurements, thus reducing material wastage.
• Safety Features: Verify the presence of safety features like protective guards and emergency stop buttons. These features help to protect workers from accidents and injuries.
• Dust and Debris Management: Consider how the bench cutter grinder handles dust and debris. Proper management helps to keep the working environment clean and reduces the risk of hazards.
• Warranty and Support: A warranty covers manufacturing defects. Consider the customer support provided. It's essential for maintenance and spare part requirements.
• Ergonomics of Operation: Some machines have adjustments for speed and grip. Other models might have a cutting head that rotates at different angles, making them easier to operate. Ergonomics is an essential aspect of workplace safety. It reduces the risk of musculoskeletal disorders among employees, thus reducing downtime.

Bench cutter grinder FAQ

Q1: What is the difference between a bench grinder and a bench cutter?

A1: A bench grinder uses grinding wheels to sharpen tools, while a bench cutter uses blades to chop substances. Bench grinders are more versatile because they can perform several tasks, including sharpening, buffing, and light grinding. Bench cutters are limited to chopping and cutting.

Q2: Are all bench cutters compatible with the same types of blades?

A2: Unfortunately, no. Bench cutters are manufactured to work with specific blade types. The specifications of the machine will state the types of blades that can be used. If users try to use an incompatible blade, it may damage the machine or the blade.

Q3: Can users install/modify existing bench cutter blades?

A3: Users can install different types of blades in their machines as long as they are compatible with the benchmarker's specifications. However, they cannot modify existing blades, as this could render them incompatible or unsafe to use.

Q4: What are the safety features of a bench cutter grinder?

A4: Many bench grinders have safety features to prevent accidents. One of the most common is the wheel guard, a protective shield above and around the wheels, preventing contact and preventing debris projection. Another one are the tool rests, which are small platforms that support the users' hands and materials while working.