How to Correctly Place a Circle on an Angle Grinder

Angle grinder (angle grinder) or, as it is also called, “angle grinder” is a widespread tool with which masters saw, cut, grind various kinds of surfaces. When working, it is often necessary to replace the working disk. And at this moment, many people have a question about which side to put the cutting disc on the angle grinder.

The main difference between the two sides of the circle

On any cutting disc, two surfaces are clearly distinguishable. One of them (back) is plain, formed by abrasive material. On the second (front) label is glued containing basic information about the characteristics of the disk. But the main distinguishing feature of the two surfaces is the presence of a metal ring on the front side.

Why do you need a metal ring

The metal washer (ring) is designed to protect the integrity of the disk when it is tightened with a movable flange nut, as well as to increase the area of ​​the supporting surface. In addition, the metal washer does not allow to “stick” the cutting wheel to the surface of the nut, which greatly facilitates the process of replacing it.

Advantages of installing a disc ring to an angle grinder

Cut-off wheels do not have a programmed direction of rotation. Therefore, it does not matter which side will be installed. But as mentioned above, the installation of the circle with the front side outward, facilitates the process of replacing it (it is much more difficult to unscrew the nut on the abrasive side). In addition, this installation provides several more advantages.

Guaranteed smooth shaft mounting

A metal ring increases the bearing area. Therefore, when the disk is mounted on the shaft and begins to be tightened with a nut, the pressure is evenly distributed. This ensures a smooth fit of the cutting wheel and reduces the likelihood of damage due to skew.

Video: How to Correctly Place a Circle on an Angle Grinder


How to Correctly Place a Circle on an Angle Grinder

Convenience of installation of a disk

Installing the abrasive wheel with the face outward provides another advantage. you will always visually see which nozzle (metal or stone) is currently installed on the angle grinder. They are not interchangeable and in case of error, the probability of serious consequences is high. For example, when trying to use a cutting disc for metal to cut concrete, it can be destroyed and traumatized by the resulting pieces of the master. Therefore, the installation of the abrasive wheel with the label facing out will provide not only convenience, but also safety.

Instruction instructions

The instructions for many angle grinders, such as the Metabo WP 850, clearly state that "the metal flange of the wheels for abrasive cutting must abut against the support flange." It is not in vain that manufacturers give such recommendations, since they ensure safe operation of the tool and reduce the risk of serious injuries to the master.

Is there a significant difference from the direction of rotation

The direction of rotation of the cutting wheel can be both “on yourself” and “away from you”. Each of them has its advantages and disadvantages. So, when the disk rotates “away from you”, dust and sparks fly to the operator, which creates additional difficulties in work, is associated with possible burns to the eyes, skin, and flash of clothing. The rotation of the disk "on itself" is devoid of this drawback. But in this case, there is a higher risk of injury. After all, if a clamping of the disc occurs, then the instrument will fly into the operator’s face with force. There is no single rule in which direction the cutting wheel should rotate. If this is important, then the information must be indicated on the tool. In all other cases, the direction of rotation is selected by the operator, taking into account the type of surface being processed, convenience and work experience.