Bench Grinder

Primary tabs

The bench grinder has abrasive wheels that can be used to grind ferrous (iron containing) metals.

Requirements for Use
Required Badges: 

Bench Grinder

Watch Video
Pass Quiz
In person checkout required
Facilitator Checkout
Estimated Minutes for Checkout: 
5 Minutes

Check Out With Facilitator

Community Facilitators are volunteers who to advise MakeHaven members on projects and show members how to use the tools.

Facilitator hours will be BY APPOINTMENT during their listed hours. To make an appointment, contact the facilitator directly via Slack. To prevent unnecessary space access during the pandemic, facilitators will not be in the space unless they have an appointment. Note that some facilitators are available only for online virtual appointments at this time. Any questions please email info@makehaven.org.

Community Facilitators are volunteers who to advise MakeHaven members on projects and show members how to use the tools.


Start Time When Member Photo Name / Activity Area
10:00AM Sunday Mar 31, 10:00am to 1:00pm

Nathan Rawling

Electronics, 3D Printing, Metal Shop


7:30PM Monday Apr 1, 7:30pm to 10:30pm

Mara Heneks

Metal Shop


12:00PM Tuesday Apr 2, 12:00pm to 3:00pm

Christopher Chalsma

Metal Shop


6:00PM Wednesday Apr 3, 6:00pm to 9:00pm

Jared Crouch

Metal Shop & Woodworking


10:00AM Thursday Apr 4, 10:00am to 1:00pm

John Hatch

Metal Shop


Special Requirements: 

Eye Protection

Eye protection at or surpassing the ANSI Z87.1-2015 standard for specific tools, as well as at all times when in wood or machine shop.

Secure Loose Items

Including sleeves, headphones, hoodie strings,  long hair.

Closed-Toe Shoes

Closed toed shoes are required.

Instructions for Use: 
  • The purpose of the bench grinder is to grind metal. It can be used to remove burrs, round corners, or reshape pieces
  • The buffing wheel on the bench grinder is for buffing objects
  • Ensure that sleeves are well rolled, any hair/jewelry is secured, and eye protection is on
  • If you cannot firmly hold the object while keeping fingers clear of the wheel, use vise-grips to hold the object
  • Vacuum any sawdsut around the area prior to use, and the wheel can produce sparks
  • Do not force the object into the wheel, and reduce pressure if the wheel starts to slow
  • The workpiece may be held level on the toolrest, or at a downwards angle if applied above the tool rest
  • Angling the workpiece up can result in jamming back into the operator
  • Angling down on the toolrest can result in pinching in between the tool rest and the wheel
  • Maintain awareness of the presence of the other spinning wire wheel, so that you don't accidentally touch it
  • To prep the buffing wheel, gently push the abrasive compound stick into the wheel while it's spinning, then buff your workpiece. Different grits of abrasive can be purchased for achieving different finishes on different materials
Information Plate: 
Item Area Interest: 
Item Hazard Band: 
Hazard Class 2 - Lacerations, and burn, Injuries requiring professional medical assistance
Status: 

Open Tasks You Can Do.