Simplify the Daily Grind

BY DENNIS VON RUDEN

Work smarter, not harder, with the right surface grinder. Here’s what you need to know.

You’ll need more than just surface-level knowledge to achieve the desired outcome on a project with a surface grinder. Errors can lead to more than poor results but can cause costly damage. Getting the job done right requires the proper machine and attachments, as well as understanding the correct way to use them.

Newer high-speed grinders have a higher price tag but they also can complete concrete grinding and polishing jobs more quickly. Of course, with faster grinding performance comes an increased risk of accidentally damaging the floor surface, making these best reserved for the most experienced contractors. Low-speed grinders, the focus of this article, have been available for longer and are an ideal option for operators of all experience levels.

POWER SOURCE

The chosen power source for a surface grinder will often be dictated by the job location. Electric models are the best choice for indoor applications where an electrical source is available. Keep in mind, however, that some models may work with a 115-volt power source, while others require 230-volt. Gas-powered surface grinders may fit the bill for jobsites that don’t have electrical power sources, but these products should only be used in outdoor concrete applications, never inside. For indoor projects with no electricity, whether building or generator supplied, propane-powered models can be used.

ATTACHMENT SYSTEMS

A traditional surface grinder design uses wood or plastic wedges to hold the grinding stones, diamond segments or other attachments in place. Veteran concrete contractors know that it’s not uncommon for grinding elements to shake loose and fall off during operation. Keep in mind, though, that this can be a good thing. If the grinder catches a crack or obstruction, the machine may jump and/or the attachment will release, helping to prevent damage to the machine. The gimbaled head of the grinder will flex/give to provide additional protection in such situations, plus it will follow floor contours for better results.

Magnetic attachments use magnets to hold attachments in place on the surface grinder head. Since attachments may need to be switched multiple times on a single application, this convenience can provide a major advantage. Magnetic systems also have a lower cost compared to traditional style attachments. Furthermore, they attach more securely to the grinder. As mentioned above, having the attachment held too tightly to the grinder can result in machine damage or the grinder jumping when hitting an obstruction; however, a wellengineered gimbaled head design will help minimize these conditions.

EFFICIENT OPERATION

Mastering a surface grinder requires experience but there are some basic tips for getting started. For example, many first-time users try to remove material faster by pushing and pulling the machine back and forth. A more effective—and more comfortable— technique is to slowly pivot the machine about its wheels. For maximum efficiency, it is also recommended to make multiple passes over a work surface, rather than attempting to make a single deep pass. The highest material removal rates are often achieved by making passes 90 degrees to each other in a waffle-like pattern.

Oftentimes, you’ll need external weight. For instance, the removal of tough urethane coatings is often aided by adding weight to the top of the surface grinder, using objects such as cement blocks or bags of cement, to apply more pressure to the work surface. Add weight gradually until the desired removal rate is achieved rather than stack the maximum weight on the surface grinder all at once and inadvertently causing surface damage.

Be sure to replace or rotate the attachments as needed to ensure maximum productivity. If necessary, contact the equipment manufacturer to find out the life expectancy of each attachment.

Always consult with the operator’s manual for the specific surface grinder in use. Equipment manufacturers, distributors and rental centers can be helpful resources as well. Take advantage of the knowledge around us to help increase efficiency and lessen the daily grind.

The M-series gasoline-powered dual-head surface grinder, model SG24GHM. General Equipment Company

Dennis Von Ruden is President of General Equipment Company.

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