Bench Grinder Accessories

About Bench Grinder Accessories

Bench grinder accessories are essential additions that expand the functionality and versatility of your workshop grinder. From adjustable floor stands and pedestal mounts that provide stable positioning and free up valuable bench space, to specialist grinding wheels, wire wheels, and drill bit sharpeners, these accessories transform a basic bench grinder into a comprehensive workshop tool. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks a comprehensive range of accessories from trusted brands including Sealey, Draper, and Faithfull, all designed to meet the demanding requirements of professional tradespeople and serious DIY enthusiasts.

Quality bench grinder accessories ensure your equipment operates safely and efficiently whilst extending its working capabilities. Bore reducing ring sets allow you to fit wheels with different centre hole sizes to your grinder spindle, whilst dedicated sharpening attachments enable precision angle grinding for drill bits and chisels. Floor stands elevate your grinder to a comfortable working height, typically between 600-900mm, making them particularly popular in busy workshops where every square metre of bench space counts. Wire wheels provide effective rust removal and surface preparation, whilst replacement grinding wheels in various grit sizes handle everything from coarse metal removal to fine tool sharpening.

Applications

Bench grinder accessories are utilised across numerous trades and industries throughout the UK:

• Engineers and Fabricators - preparing welds, removing burrs, and shaping metal components
• Joiners and Chippies - sharpening chisels, plane blades, and woodworking tools
• Mechanics and Vehicle Technicians - cleaning parts, removing rust, and resharpening worn tools
• Metalworkers and Blacksmiths - shaping stock and maintaining cutting edges
• Maintenance Engineers - general workshop tasks including tool sharpening and component preparation
• Groundskeepers and Agricultural Workers - sharpening lawn mower blades, shears, and cutting implements
• DIY Enthusiasts - home workshop tasks and maintaining household tools

Choosing The Right Bench Grinder Accessories

Compatibility: Always verify that accessories match your grinder's specifications. Check spindle diameter, thread type, and maximum RPM ratings. Most UK bench grinders feature either M14 or 1/2-inch BSF threads, with spindle speeds typically between 2,850-3,000 RPM for 240v models.

Intended Application: Different tasks require specific accessories. Wire wheels excel at rust removal and surface preparation, whilst drill bit sharpeners provide precision tool maintenance. For sharpening high-speed steel tools, look for fine grit grinding wheels (80-120 grit). For heavy stock removal, coarser wheels (36-60 grit) prove more efficient.

Build Quality and Stability: Floor stands and pedestal mounts should feature heavy-gauge steel construction with adequate weight for stability during operation. Look for adjustable height settings and pre-drilled mounting holes that accept standard bolt patterns. MyToolShed.co.uk offers robust stands with powder-coated finishes for workshop durability.

Workshop Layout: Consider your available space. Adjustable floor stands typically require a footprint of approximately 300-400mm square but free up valuable bench space. If floor space is limited, bench-mounted accessories may prove more practical.

Safety Information

Bench grinder accessories must be used in accordance with HSE guidelines and manufacturer instructions. Always wear appropriate PPE including safety goggles or a face shield, as grinding generates high-velocity sparks and debris. Ensure any grinding wheels are rated for speeds exceeding your grinder's maximum RPM - never exceed the marked safe operating speed.

Before mounting accessories, disconnect the grinder from the 240v mains supply. When fitting grinding wheels, conduct a ring test by suspending the wheel and tapping it gently - a clear ringing sound indicates a sound wheel, whilst a dull thud suggests cracks or damage. Floor stands must be secured properly to prevent movement during operation, and the tool rest gap should be maintained at 2-3mm from the grinding wheel surface.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size bore reducing rings do I need for my bench grinder?

Measure your grinder's spindle diameter first - common UK sizes are 12.7mm (1/2"), 16mm, and 20mm. Bore reducing ring sets typically include multiple sizes (16mm, 20mm, 25.4mm, and 32mm outer rings) that adapt to your specific spindle, providing comprehensive coverage for most standard grinding wheels.

Can I use any wire wheel on my bench grinder?

No - the wire wheel must be rated for your grinder's operating speed. Most UK bench grinders run at approximately 2,850 RPM on 240v supply. Check the wheel's maximum safe speed marking and ensure it exceeds your grinder's RPM. Also verify the bore size matches your spindle diameter or that you have appropriate reducing rings.

Are adjustable floor stands suitable for all bench grinder sizes?

Most adjustable floor stands accommodate bench grinders with 6-inch to 8-inch wheels, covering the majority of workshop models. Check the stand's specifications for maximum weight capacity and mounting hole spacing before purchasing to ensure compatibility with your specific grinder model.