An angle grinder, also known as a side grinder or disc grinder, is a handheld power tool used

for cutting, grinding and polishing.[1]

Angle grinders can be powered by an electric motor, petrol engine or compressed air. The motor
drives a geared head at a right-angle on which is mounted an abrasive disc or a thinner cut-off
disc, either of which can be replaced when worn. Angle grinders typically have an adjustable
guard and a side-handle for two-handed operation. Certain angle grinders, depending on their
speed range, can be used assanders, employing a sanding disc with a backing pad or disc. The
backing system is typically made of hard plastic, phenolic resin, or medium-hard rubber
depending on the amount of flexibility desired.
Angle grinders may be used for removing excess material from a piece. There are many different
kinds of discs that are used for various materials and tasks, such as cut-off discs (diamond
blade), abrasive grinding discs, grinding stones, sanding discs, wire brush wheels and polishing
pads. The angle grinder has large bearings to counter side forces generated during cutting,
unlike a power drill, where the force is axial.
Angle grinders are widely used in metalworking and construction, as well as in emergency
rescues. They are commonly found in workshops, service garages and auto body repair shops.
There is a large variety of angle grinders to choose from when trying to find the right one for the
job. The most important factors in choosing the right grinder are the disc size and how powerful
the motor is. Other factors include power source (pneumatic or electric), rpm, and arbor size.
Generally disc size and power increase together. Disc size is usually measured in inches or
millimetres. Common disc sizes for angle grinders in the U.S.A. include 4, 4.5, 5, 6, 7, 9 and
12 inches. Discs for pneumatic grinders also come much smaller. Pneumatic grinders are
generally used for lighter duty jobs where more precision is required. This is likely because
pneumatic grinders can be small and light yet remain powerful, because they do not contain
heavy copper motor windings, while it is harder for an electric grinder to maintain adequate
power with smaller size. Electric grinders are more commonly used for larger, heavy duty jobs.
However, there are also small electric grinders and large pneumatic grinders.
Through a sound pressure level and vibrations study conducted by the National Institute for
Occupational Safety and Health, grinders under an unloaded condition ranged from 91 to
103 dBA.[2] In addition, angle grinders produce sparks when cutting ferrous metals. They also
produce shards cutting other materials. The blades themselves may also break. This is a great
hazard to the face and eyes especially, as well as other parts of the body, and as such, a full face
shield and other protective clothing must be worn. Angle grinders should never be used without
their guard or handle attached; they are there as a necessary precaution for safety. All work
should be securely clamped or held firmly in a vice.