The latest advice in the Chicago Pneumatic Expert Corner series features tips on how to grind effectively and safely.

Harald Odenman, Product Marketing Manager at Chicago Pneumatic says, “It goes without saying that accidents at work can be devastating to the individual and have significant consequences for the business and its bottom line. Therefore, it’s essential to reduce risks to make sure you’re operating as safely as possible. ”

The first piece of advice is to read the user manual and safety instructions of the tool, a basic step often over looked. Secondly, the user should check the air line set up, regulating the air pressure to 90 psi (6.3 bars) and using the FRL to control pressure, lubricate and clean the air. The user should also ensure connection between the airline and the tool’s inlet is secure.

Other key points Chicago Pneumatic make are:

- Ensure the designated maximum operating speed of the abrasive is never exceeded otherwise dangerous fragments can come off at very high speed. 

- Use the right size abrasive for the tool. If the disc is too large it will not attach correctly or allow the use the proper guard for this abrasive.

- Always use an abrasive designed for the job: i.e. only use a cutting wheel for cutting and a grinding wheel for grinding.

- Abrasives will degrade over time if not stored appropriately and they also have a use-by date.

- Work in a well ventilated area and wear appropriate PPE, including gloves, safety glasses, hearing protection, steel toes and dust masks.

- Use the safety guard and ensure it is well positioned to provide maximum protection.

- Check the work-piece is secure and well clamped.

- Run the tool at free speed for 30 seconds in a safe enclosed area to check it is operating as expected. If there are any abnormal vibrations, stop the tool immediately as it requires maintenance.

- Never apply excessive force during work.

You can learn in the Expert Corner section at www.cp.com