My Combination Bench Grinder Has a Slow Speed When Wet

Wet Grinding Setting

• Many combination bench grinders have a wet grinding setting. They have a water delivery system and a reservoir which you need to fill with water. The water is then introduced to the grinding wheel, and the grinding wheel turns at a slower rate than when it is used for dry grinding. This is not a problem with the mechanism; it is by design. Using a wet grinding stone at high speeds can bend the shaft due to the increased weight of the stone and it quickly dries out the stone.

Wet Grinding Applications

• Wet grinding is often used for sharpening carbide blades and other hardened metal edges. Before attempting to use the wet grinding setting and stone, ensure that the stone you are using is rated for the metal you intend to grind. Using an improper grinding stone can cause damage to the grinding wheel, the tool you are sharpening and it can be potentially dangerous.

Using Water with Non-Wet Grinding Bench Grinders

• Bench grinders that are designed for wet grinding applications have specific features that allow them to function with moisture introduced to their stone. Ordinary grinders should never be used as a wet grinding system; doing so can quickly destroy the grinder and may cause an electrical shock.

Moisture on Combination Grinder

• If your grinder has become wet, unplug it immediately. If it has a removable case or cover, unscrew and remove the cover and allow the unit to dry thoroughly before attempting to plug it in or run it again. A hairdryer can be used to dry out especially moist components.