Table of Contents
Benchtop grinders
Overview
We have a Warco 6“ and an Axminster 8” bench grinder. The grinders are essentially double ended motors, with grinding wheels attached to each end of the motor. The Axminster is a slow running grinder which is specifically designed to lower the risk of overheating and spoiling the temper of edge tools. It is an aimed at the sharpening of woodworkers, turners, and general metal fabrication. The Warco is a general-purpose machine used for shaping raw metal stock, removing burs, cleaning up welds, and roughing out tool profiles before final honing.
Axminster 8“
- Spindle Speed: 1,425 rpm (Slow running)
- Left Wheel: 60-grit Grey Aluminium Oxide (Coarse grinding/shaping)
- Right Wheel: 120-grit White Aluminium Oxide (Fine sharpening/edge refinement)
Warco 6”
- Spindle Speed: Approx. 2,850 rpm (Standard high speed)
- Left Wheel: Medium / Coarse Aluminium Oxide Wheel (For heavy stock removal/rough grinding)
- Right Wheel: Fine Aluminium Oxide Wheel (For cleaning up edges and deburring)
A paper manual is kept for this machine in the Makerspace
Safety & Induction
Risk Score Amber
Risk Assessment: Link
Do I need an induction to use this machine? Yes
Can I use this machine while lone working? Yes
| PPE | Required / Suggested / Banned |
|---|---|
| Eye protection | Required |
| Hearing protection | Suggested |
| Gloves | Banned |
Specific Hazards
- Entanglement: Rotating wheels can catch hair, clothing, or rags.
- Hot Sparks & Debris: Grinding generates high-velocity hot sparks. Ensure the spark guards are adjusted closely to the wheel.
- Wheel Shatter/Explosion: Damaged or cracked wheels can fragment violently at speed. Always inspect wheels before turning the machine on.
- Material Restrictions: DO NOT grind soft metals (e.g., aluminum, copper, brass) on the aluminum oxide wheels as they will clog (“load”) the stones, creating an explosion hazard due to heat friction.
Induction Information
Do I need an induction to use this machine?: Yes
- You can get an induction for this machine by submitting a request to contact@newportmakerspace.org, or by completing this google form
- An induction for this machine is expected to take up to 30 minutes
- The induction will cover setup and safe usage of the machine
Maintenance History
Date next maintenance is due: 01/04/2026
| Date | Member ID | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 01/10/2025 | John O | PAT test completed |