Safety

Grinding wheels, if used incorrectly, can be extremely dangerous. It is therefore essential that operators are familiar with a few simple safety rules for using these products. What follows is a summary of the main precautions. For further information consult the FEPA (Federation of European Producers of Abrasives) Safety Code. Our technicians are always available to provide explanations/specific training for operators.

TAKING DELIVERY, STORING AND HANDLING

On taking delivery of the grinding wheels, with the transporter present, check that the packaging is in good condition and that the grinding wheels are undamaged. Damaged grinding wheels must not be fitted. Grinding wheels are fragile and must never be dropped, knocked or rolled on the floor. Store the abrasives in a dry, frost-free area that is not subject to wide temperature variations. Do not use grinding wheels beyond their expiry date, if marked.

FITTING

Before fitting, make a visual check for damage to the grinding wheel. Strike the wheels gently on a surface, keeping them suspended or resting on the external band, making sure that they give off a clear, metallic sound and not a low or dull one. Check that the maximum speed of the machine is lower than or the same as the speed specified on the grinding wheel and take a note of the batch number, which may be erased during use. Take care to prevent the machine from accidentally starting up during fitting. The flanges, which must be of the same diameter and with a central recess so that only their outer circular rim is in contact with the grinding wheel, must be perfectly clean and level. The cardboard discs supplied with the grinding wheels must always be inserted between grinding wheel and flange, without bends or creases. During installation do not force, adjust or modify the grinding wheel. Tighten the fixing screws crossways and without excessive force. If necessary, balance the grinding wheel using the counterweights on the flanges. Make sure that the machine cannot start up accidentally and check that the wheel guard is securely closed and that there are no foreign bodies between wheel guard and grinding wheel.

SWITCHING THE MACHINE ON AND OFF

After fitting or refitting a grinding wheel, carry out a test by spinning it freely for at least 30 seconds at normal operating speed, keeping at a safe distance from the machine. For wet grinding operations, before switching off the machine cut off power to the coolant and allow the grinding wheel to turn for a few minutes to expel the liquid it contains. Let the grinding wheel stop on its own, without applying pressure to its surface. After the machine has stopped, make sure that the grinding wheel has stopped before leaving it unattended.

SAFETY DURING MACHINING

Always make sure that the workpiece and any supports are securely fixed and supported. Do not switch on the machine if the workpiece is in contact with the grinding wheel. Do not remove the protection devices installed on the machine for any reason and always check that they are in good condition and correctly positioned. Always grind using plenty of coolant liquid, especially on the sides of the grinding wheel. Avoid knocks, sudden temperature changes and overheating the grinding wheel.