A guide, not a substitute for your induction. These are general good-practice notes. Always follow your induction and the duty officer's directions for this machine.
A member at the surface grinder at the Bright United Men's Shed

Metalwork · Our Workshop

Surface grinder

Medium risk Induction required

A surface grinder takes fine, precise passes across metal with a spinning abrasive wheel on a sliding magnetic table, for flat, accurate, smooth finishes.

  • When
    Metalwork · Fridays
  • Two-member rule
    Don't work alone on this one
  • Before you start
    Complete a surface grinder induction

Using it safely

General good practice for a surface grinder. Your induction covers the specifics for the machine at our shed.

  • Seat the work on the magnetMake sure the magnetic chuck is on and the work is held firmly before starting.
  • Take light passesWind the wheel down a little at a time. Heavy cuts grab, overheat and can crack the wheel.
  • Check the wheel firstInspect the grinding wheel for cracks and let it run up to speed before bringing it to the work.
  • Keep it coolWatch for overheating and discolouration in the work, and let parts cool before handling.
  • Never work aloneThis is medium-risk gear, so at least one other inducted member must be in the workshop with you.
  • Unsure? Ask a Duty OfficerAlways better to ask. They're happy to help and there's no silly question.

Before you start

An induction is required

Before using the surface grinder for the first time, you'll do a short, friendly hands-on induction with an experienced member. We'll walk you through setup, safe operation and how to stop safely, at your own pace.

Book one with a Duty Officer on any open day, or call the shed on 03 5750 1120. Already inducted? Remember the two-member rule still applies.

When it runs

Metalwork · Fridays

The metal bench runs alongside welding on Fridays. Have a yarn with the crew to get going.