ABRASIVE WHEELS

ABRASIVE WHEELS

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

Cut off wheels, are commonly known as 'disc cutters', 'stilh saws' or 'spinners'. They are hand-held versatile tool, that can be extremely dangerous in the hands of an untrained person. It is therefore essential that potential users are trained in both use of the tool and how to safely change the disc. It is a requirement of the Abrasive Wheels Regulations that a person must be trained in the mounting of abrasive wheels and appointed in writing by his employer. They may be electrically, petrol or air powered

HAZARDS

• Electric shock and fire from flammable vapours
• Bursting of wheel, (caused by over speeding or faulty mounting)
• Injury from flying particles thrown off by the cutting process
• Injuries caused by coming into contact with the revolving disc
• Incorrectly mounted wheels or discs

HEALTH AND SAFETY POINTS

• Only persons trained and appointed in writing may fit or use an abrasive wheel
• Always wear goggles and if necessary ear protectors when using an abrasive wheel
• Consider your surrounding carefully before commencing
• The machines and wheel must have their maximum speeds marked clearly on them. Maximum speeds of wheels and discs must not be exceeded
• Check you have the correct disc for the material you propose to cut
• Always keep guards in place
• Keep the face of the wheel evenly dressed
• Never use the side of the wheel unless it is designed for it
• Keep fingers away from the cutting edge
• Do not exert heavy pressure on the wheel
• Make sure the material you are cutting will not move during the operation 
• Stop the wheel when not in use

QUSTIONS

• Who may operate and change the disc on a abrasive wheel?
• Can you place a 6000 rpm blade onto a 5800 rpm tool?
• Why should you always wear goggles?

SAFETY REMINDER

Consider other and protect you eyes from flying particles. Check spindle speed, disc speed, for damage, the reinforcement, and it is the right disc for the job.