How to Use a Professional Angle Grinder (A Pro's Guide Featuring the Bosch GWS 700)

There's a tool no serious contractor, builder, or DIY enthusiast in the UAE can live without: the angle grinder. This versatile power tool is your go-to for cutting, grinding, polishing, and more. But with great power comes great responsibility, and knowing how to use an angle grinder safely and effectively is crucial.

We're going to walk you through everything you need to know, focusing on a model that balances performance and value: the Bosch GWS 700 601394003 115mm 700W 220-230V. Consider this your practical, no-nonsense guide to mastering the angle grinder.

Why Every Pro Needs an Angle Grinder?

Before we dive into the how-to, let's quickly cover why an angle grinder is such an essential tool in the first place.

• Cutting: From metal pipes and rebar to tiles and concrete, an angle grinder with the correct disc can slice through almost anything.
• Grinding: Smooth welds, remove rust, or prep surfaces for painting – an angle grinder makes quick work of these tasks.
• Polishing: With the appropriate attachment, you can use an angle grinder to polish metal, stone, and even concrete.
• Sharpening: Quickly sharpen blades, axes, and other tools with a grinding wheel.
• Versatility: The sheer range of attachments available makes the angle grinder one of the most versatile tools in your arsenal.

Introducing the Bosch GWS 700: A Reliable Workhorse

There are countless angle grinders on the market. Still, we're highlighting the Bosch GWS 700 601394003 115mm 700W 220-230V because it strikes an outstanding balance between power, affordability, and Bosch's renowned reliability.

Here's what makes it a solid choice for professionals in the UAE:

• Powerful Motor: A 700W Motor provides ample power for most common grinding and cutting tasks. It's enough to handle steel, concrete, and other rigid materials without bogging down.
• 115mm Disc Size: This is a standard and versatile disc size, making it easy to find a wide range of compatible attachments.
• Compact and Lightweight Design: This makes the Bosch GWS 700 601394003 115mm 700W 220-230V easy to handle and manoeuvre, even in tight spaces. This is especially important when working on-site for extended periods.
• Ergonomic Grip: Comfortable grip reduces fatigue during prolonged use.
• Safety Features: Spindle lock for easy disc changes and a robust guard for protection.
• Bosch Quality: Bosch is a trusted brand known for its durable and reliable power tools. You can expect this grinder to withstand daily use on the job site.

How to Use an Angle Grinder Safely and Effectively?

Now, let's get down to business. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to use an angle grinder, specifically with the Bosch GWS 700 601394003 115mm 700W 220-230V, but the principles apply to most models.

1. Safety First: Gear Up!

This is non-negotiable. Before you even think about turning on the grinder, make sure you have the following safety gear:

• Safety Glasses or Face Shield: Protect your eyes from flying debris. This is absolutely essential.
• Hearing Protection: Angle grinders are loud. Wear earplugs or earmuffs to prevent hearing damage.
• Gloves: Protect your hands from sparks, heat, and sharp edges.
• Dust Mask or Respirator: Grinding and cutting can produce a lot of dust, especially when working with concrete or masonry. A dust mask or respirator is essential to protect your lungs.
• Apron or Protective Clothing: Cover your skin to protect it from sparks and debris.

2. Choose the Right Disc

Your chosen disc will depend on the material you're working with and your task. Here are some common types of discs:

• Cutting Discs: Thin, abrasive discs designed for cutting metal, concrete, tile, and other materials.
• Grinding Wheels: Thicker, more durable wheels designed for grinding metal, smoothing welds, and removing rust.
• Flap Discs: Abrasive flaps attached to a backing pad. These are great for blending, deburring, and finishing metal surfaces.
• Wire Wheels: Used for removing rust, paint, and other coatings from metal surfaces.
• Diamond Blades: Used for cutting concrete, tile, and stone.

3. Install the Disc Correctly

• Unplug the grinder: Always disconnect the power cord before changing discs.
• Use the spindle lock: Press the spindle lock button to prevent the spindle from rotating.
• Loosen the locking nut: Use the wrench provided with the grinder to loosen the locking nut.
• Remove the old disc (if applicable): Carefully remove the old disc.
• Install the new disc: Make sure the disc is correctly seated on the spindle and that the arrow on the disc points toward rotation.
• Tighten the locking nut: Use the wrench to tighten the locking nut securely. Do not over-tighten.
• Release the spindle lock: Ensure the spindle lock is released before using the grinder.

4. Secure Your Workpiece

Clamp or otherwise secure your workpiece to prevent it from moving while you're working. This is especially important when cutting or grinding metal. A stable workpiece significantly reduces the risk of accidents.

5. Starting and Using the Grinder

• Position yourself correctly: Stand in a stable position with sound footing. Keep your body out of the line of fire from sparks and debris.
• Grip the grinder firmly: Use both hands to grip the grinder securely.
• Start the grinder: Turn it on and let it reach full speed before contacting the workpiece.
• Apply gentle pressure: Let the grinder do the work. Applying too much pressure can cause the disc to bind or break.
• Use smooth, controlled movements: Move the grinder smoothly and evenly across the workpiece. Avoid jerky or abrupt movements.
• Maintain the correct angle: Hold the disc perpendicular to the workpiece for cutting. Hold the disc at a slight angle (around 15-30 degrees) for grinding.
• Avoid overheating: If the grinder starts to overheat, stop and let it cool down.

6. Cutting Techniques

• Mark your cutting line: Use a marker or scribe to mark the line you want to cut.
• Make shallow cuts: For thicker materials, make multiple shallow cuts rather than trying to cut all the way through in one pass.
• Use a cutting lubricant (optional): Applying a cutting lubricant can significantly reduce friction and heat when cutting metal.

7. Grinding Techniques

• Use a grinding wheel or flap disc: Choose the appropriate disc for your grinding material.
• Apply consistent pressure: Maintain a consistent pressure to achieve a smooth, even finish.
• Move the grinder in a circular motion: This helps to blend the surface and avoid creating grooves.

8. After Use: Cleaning and Maintenance

• Unplug the grinder: Always disconnect the power cord before cleaning or performing maintenance.
• Clean the grinder: Wipe the grinder with a clean cloth to remove dust and debris.
• Inspect the disc: Check it for damage and replace it if necessary.
• Store the grinder in a clean, dry place: This will help to prolong its lifespan.

Advanced Tips for Professional Results

• Master the Art of Feathering: Feathering is a technique used to blend edges and create a smooth transition between two surfaces. This is especially useful when grinding welds or repairing damaged metal.
• Learn to Control the Spark Stream: The direction of the spark stream can tell you a lot about how the grinder is performing. Pay attention to the spark stream and adjust your technique accordingly.
• Use a Dust Extraction System: For heavy-duty grinding or cutting, consider using a dust extraction system to minimise dust exposure.
• Experiment with Different Attachments: Don't be afraid to experiment with different attachments to find the ones that work best for you. Countless specialty attachments are available for angle grinders, such as sanding pads, polishing bonnets, and even wood carving discs.

Choosing the Right Discs for the Bosch GWS 700

Because the Bosch GWS 700 601394003 115mm 700W 220-230V uses a 115mm disc, you have access to a wide variety of options. Here are some of our recommendations:

• For Cutting Steel: Opt for thin (1mm or 1.6mm) cutting discs designed for metal. These provide clean, fast cuts with minimal material loss.
• For Cutting Concrete/Masonry: Choose diamond cutting blades specifically designed for concrete or masonry. Ensure the blade is rated for the type of concrete you're cutting (e.g., reinforced concrete).
• For Grinding Steel: Use a grinding wheel with a grit appropriate for the material you need to remove. Coarser grits remove material faster but leave a rougher finish.
• For Polishing: Use a multi-stage polishing kit with progressively finer grits to achieve a mirror-like finish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using the wrong disc for the job: This can damage the disc, the workpiece, and even the grinder.
• Too much pressure: Applying too much pressure can cause the disc to bind or break.
• Using a damaged disc: Always inspect it for damage before using it.
• Ignoring safety precautions: This is the biggest mistake of all. Always wear safety gear and follow proper safety procedures.

FAQs

Q. What is the difference between a cutting disc and a grinding wheel?

Cutting discs are thin and designed for slicing through materials while grinding wheels are thicker and designed for removing material and smoothing surfaces. Using the wrong disc can be dangerous and ineffective.

Q. How often should I replace the disc on my angle grinder?

Replace the disc when it becomes worn or damaged or is no longer cutting or grinding effectively. Always inspect the disc before each use.

Q. Can I use the Bosch GWS 700 to sharpen tools?

You can use a grinding wheel to sharpen blades, axes, and other tools. However, using a grinding wheel designed explicitly for sharpening is essential.

Q. What is the purpose of the spindle lock button?

The spindle lock button prevents the spindle from rotating, making it easier to change discs. Always unplug the grinder before using the spindle lock.

Q. Is the Bosch GWS 700 suitable for cutting concrete?

Yes, the Bosch GWS 700 601394003 115mm 700W 220-230V can cut concrete. Still, you'll need a diamond cutting blade specifically designed for concrete or masonry.

Q. What is the power source of the Bosch GWS 700?

The Bosch GWS 700 601394003 115mm 700W 220-230V is designed to operate on a 220-230V power supply, which is standard in the UAE.

Final Words

Now that you're armed with the knowledge, it's time to get to work. Head over to the product page and purchase your Bosch GWS 700 601394003 115mm 700W 220-230V and all the accessories you need.

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