Angle grinders are handy power tools that you can use to cut through different materials, such as metal, stone, and concrete. While choosing an excellent angle grinder is important, it’s equally important to choose efficient ways to eliminate the dust particles that grinding concrete produces. There are a few ways to eliminate these dust particles. The simplest and most efficient way is by using a dust shroud.
Before we get to the heart of the matter, we’ll lay the groundwork. This article will explain in detail what an angle grinder is and what a dust shroud is. We’ll then see why you need to invest in a dust shroud before we finally take you through the steps of installing one.
What is an Angle Grinder?
An angle grinder is sometimes called a disc grinder or a side grinder. It is a handheld power tool used for grinding, cutting, deburring, and polishing. You can use it for different materials, including metal, concrete, aluminum, bricks, and wood. A grinder spins at thousands of RPMs, and you may use different discs for different applications and materials.
Angle grinders come in various sizes, the most popular size being 10 to 12 cm. They are powered by compressed air or an electric motor. The most common types are powered by electricity, either corded or battery-powered.
What is a Dust Shroud?
A dust shroud is a device that creates a controlled travel path for the dust generated by your angle grinder. It provides a means of attaching the grinder to a vacuum cleaner which sucks up the harmful dust particles that results when you grind concrete.
Dust shrouds provide an efficient way to remove dust from the air and safely dispose of it. They work together with the vacuum to control dust generation. A dust shroud is important when cutting materials like concrete or wood, as they produce and release fine particles into the air.
Why Do You Need a Dust Shroud?
Although you don’t need a dust shroud to use your angle grinder, using one has its benefits. Here are some reasons why investing in a dust shroud is important:
It Saves Time
When using a grinder without a shroud, you’ll spend significant time cleaning up your work area and making it dust-free. However, with a shroud, the dust particles are immediately removed and sucked into the vacuum.
Makes Your Work Environment Safer
Concrete dust particles can be seen with the human eye. However, the human eye can’t see the finest particles, and this type can be quite dangerous when constantly inhaled. Frequently breathing in the finest particles of concrete can result in silicosis.
Silicosis is a condition that inflames and scars the lungs. The condition is non-reversible, and its effect on your peace of mind, health, and quality of life is significantly more costly than purchasing a shroud. Although you may use other techniques to reduce the dust particles in the air, a dust shroud is the most efficient way.
Increases the Lifespan of Your Angle Grinder
Over time, grinding concrete without a dust shroud can result in dust particles clogging up or damaging the grinder. Your grinder may require repairs more frequently, and you may need to replace it more often.
How to Install a Dust Shroud on an Angle Grinder
Before installing or even purchasing a dust shroud, you need to ensure that it will be a good fit for your grinder. You can check if the dust shroud is suitable for your grinder by reading the product description before purchasing it. However, most shrouds are suitable for almost all major brand angle grinders.
The dust shroud you purchase will likely come with a manual to make its installation easy for you. However, we’ll briefly explain the steps you should take when installing a dust shrouder on an angle grinder.
- Remove the disc by loosening the nuts.
- Remove the grinder’s handle. You can install your dust shroud with the grinder’s handle in place, but it’ll be easier if the handle is removed.
- Place the shroud on the grinder directly on the nut. If the shroud doesn’t fit, adjust it by turning the small nut on the back.
- Once it fits, tighten the nut on the back using the wrench packaged with the dust shroud.
- Lock the dust shroud in place with the lock that you’ll also put on the back.
- Place the grinder’s disc in the shroud and key it in place with the second nut.
- Press the lock button on the grinder’s body, simultaneously using the wrench to tighten the disc and shroud.
- Ensure the dust shroud and grinder’s blade are keyed in and stable before returning the handle.
- Attach the hose of the vacuum cleaner to the dust shroud. You may use gorilla tape to ensure it’s well attached.
Safety Tips for Using an Angle Grinder
Your safety is of the highest priority. With the blades and sharp edges a grinder has, it’s very easy to hurt yourself. Here are some tips to help you avoid accidents in your workspace:
- Declutter your workspace. Before using your grinder, remove any tools, toolboxes, or cables from your work area. Keep necessary tools in a place you can easily access.
- Remove flammable materials from the area. The grinder produces sparks when in use, so it’s crucial to eliminate flammable materials. Some of these materials include paper, oil, gasoline, and diesel.
- Keep the power cables safe. You may keep them behind you to prevent them from being cut or damaged. While keeping them safe, ensure they’re in a place where they won’t trip you.
- Avoid working in a wet area. Avoid working in the rain and ensure you don’t use your grinder in wet areas. You should also only use a completely dry tool.
- Keep a fire extinguisher nearby. It’s crucial to be well prepared in case of a fire. A fire extinguisher will help you prevent a small fire from growing into a large one.
- Use protective gear. When using an angle grinder, it’s essential to always wear personal protective equipment (PPE). Some essential gear includes safety goggles, suitable clothing, thick gloves, and earplugs.
Conclusion
A dust shroud is an essential part of your angle grinder. Although you can use the grinder without the shroud, we recommend always using a dust shroud. To install your dust shroud, follow the steps in this article and always ensure you use the safety tips when using your grinder.