An angle grinder is a versatile power tool commonly used in various industries and DIY projects. Its primary uses include:
1. **Cutting**: Angle grinders are equipped with cutting discs that can slice through metal, concrete, tile, and stone. They are often used in construction and metalworking to cut rebar, pipes, and sheet metal.
2. **Grinding**: With grinding discs, these tools can remove excess material, smooth rough edges, and shape metal or stone. This is particularly useful in welding to clean up welds and in metal fabrication to prepare surfaces.
3. **Polishing and Buffing**: By attaching polishing pads, angle grinders can polish metal surfaces, giving them a shiny finish. This is common in automotive work and metal restoration projects.
4. **Sanding**: Using sanding discs, angle grinders can sand down wood, metal, and plastic surfaces. This is useful for surface preparation, paint removal, and finishing tasks.
5. **Sharpening**: Angle grinders can sharpen blades and tools, such as lawnmower blades, axes, and chisels, by using appropriate grinding wheels.
6. **Surface Preparation**: They are used to remove rust, paint, and corrosion from metal surfaces, making them essential in maintenance and restoration work.
7. **Masonry Work**: With diamond blades, angle grinders can cut and shape bricks, tiles, and stones, making them invaluable in tiling and masonry projects.
8. **Demolition**: In demolition work, angle grinders can cut through various materials, aiding in the dismantling of structures.
9. **Cleaning**: Wire brush attachments can clean metal surfaces, remove burrs, and prepare surfaces for welding or painting.
These tools are favored for their portability, power, and ability to handle a wide range of materials, making them indispensable in both professional and home settings.