How to choose an angle grinder for your home: 7 tips for choosing an angle grinder

A grinder is an electric tool, which in professional language is called an angle grinder. Sometimes on the boxes with the device you can find the abbreviation angle grinder, and in the world it is called “flex” - after the name of the first company that developed the device. Our name comes from the name of the country of Bulgaria, where the first samples were brought to the USSR. It is used for cleaning, grinding and cutting products made of stone, wood and metal. Komsomolskaya Pravda talks about the best grinders for the home that can be found on sale in 2022.

Operating principle and scope

An angle grinder is an electric hand tool that is designed for cutting, sanding and grinding materials such as various types of stone, including concrete, metal, wood and others. The construction of an angle grinder is not particularly complicated. However, it is necessary to navigate this issue in order to be able to carry out repairs or preventive cleaning yourself. The durable plastic case contains the following basic elements :

Speed control wheel;
Engine;
Start button
Frame;
Quick disk replacement button:
Safety coupling;
Protective cover;
Working disk clamp nut;
Gear housing;

The principle of operation itself comes down to the conversion of torque, which comes from a spindle connected to the engine via a gear drive. It is to the spindle that various attachments necessary for this or that type of work are attached. The body of the tool is made of high-strength plastic that can withstand impacts. Simply by using different types of attachments, or rather, different types of abrasive wheels, you can perform completely different tasks, which significantly increases the scope of application of this tool.

The grinder is used when necessary:

Trim or cut out tiles;
Cut metal sheets or rods;
Cut grooves in a brick or concrete wall for laying electrical wiring or water pipes;
Remove rust from a car body or a layer of old paint;
Sand wooden or metal surfaces to a high degree of smoothness;
Clean the welds;
Dull sharp edges with chamfers.

Design of angle grinders, components

The design of angle grinders is characterized by a relatively simple and technologically advanced design, which made it possible to establish their production at many enterprises.

The angle grinder consists of the following parts:

The body, which is made of reinforced polymers. Such materials are characterized by high strength, resistance to wear and environmental influences. On the outer surface there is a button to turn on the tool with a lock. Some models have windows covered with hatches for replacing drive brushes.

An electric motor powered by a household network or batteries. Angler grinders use drives that can provide high shaft speeds. To cool the windings and other parts, a fan is installed on the front part of the axis.

Single-stage bevel gearbox in a separate housing made primarily of magnesium or aluminum alloys. It consists of bevel gears, the shafts of which are mounted on ball or plain bearings. The interaction of the parts with each other in the gearbox is ensured by the housing, which is filled with grease.

A spindle consisting of a shaft with a metric thread, a thick-walled washer and a nut for attaching a cutting disc or other equipment. On the gear housing there is usually a button on the opposite side that locks the shaft in place. This is necessary for dismantling and installing new equipment.

The removable handle is threaded and can be screwed into the gear housing in one of the selected positions. This is done for the convenience of holding the power tool while performing various types of work.

The protective casing covers part of the cutting disc and does not allow the sheaf of sparks that is formed during operation to fly away in all directions. The device protects the worker and surrounding objects from equipment wear products and material fragments formed during its processing.

The angle grinder is supplied to the consumer complete with a user manual and a special key for attaching the equipment. The latter is a steel strip with two pins that exactly match the holes of the fixing nut. In some cases, the manufacturer adds spare carbon brushes to the package.

Operating principle of an angle grinder

The angle grinder is driven by an electric motor, which is turned on by pressing a locking button or switch. Power is supplied from the network, as well as from a built-in or removable battery. Mostly, the tool is equipped with commutator electric motors, the stator winding of which has a high inductive resistance. This circumstance makes it possible to significantly reduce operating currents.

Spinning, the electric motor shaft rotates the drive gear in the gearbox, which drives the driven gear, and thus transmits force to the spindle. The mechanism body is made of magnesium or aluminum alloys to improve heat transfer. The gearing between gears is of two types: spur and helical (bevel Glisson system). The second option is preferable because it provides greater reliability and helps reduce noise.

More expensive and complex models use a release clutch installed between the engine and the gearbox. The main function of this unit is to prevent kickback when the disk suddenly stops due to jamming. This allows you to protect the operator from possible injury and the grinder components from damage. On such angle grinders, the spindle lock button can be pressed until it stops completely.

The choice of a design scheme in which the plane of rotation of the cutting disc or brush is parallel to the axis of the tool is explained quite simply. When an angle grinder operates, a significant torque occurs, tending to pull the tool to the side. This force is easily compensated by the operator due to the optimal positioning of the hands along and perpendicular to the axis.

Types of grinders

All the variety of this tool can be arranged depending on the type of food. Although the majority of these tools, approximately 95%, are electric, there are four types of power sources.

Network angle grinders

The most common type, operating on 220V voltage. They have the ability to use discs of various diameters. It is advisable to use them in enclosed spaces where there is free access to the network or in areas equipped with sockets. This is the best option for use in an apartment or country house. It is the networked tool that professional electricians, plumbers and tile layers use. Depending on the power, there are both professional models and simpler ones.

Network angle grinders have the following advantages:

have a high rotation speed;
are powerful, but at the same time economical;
for ease of use, there are several options for housing dimensions to suit discs of different diameters;
affordable pricing policy;
relatively light weight;
a variety of attachments that can be used with a specific model;
long service life with proper use.

The disadvantages include:

limited use due to energy dependence;
During operation, the power cord can interfere with the process and create inconvenience;
you can observe interruptions and instability of the tool in case of a fall
network voltage.

Cordless angle grinders

Their appearance and body structure have a characteristic difference from network models. At the end of the tool there is a large compartment for attaching batteries. These grinders are produced in modest sizes, and their body serves as the main handle when holding. The size of the disk nozzles does not have such variety as the previous type and lies in the range of 125-150 mm. The battery is a 18V lithium-ion battery. It will not be possible to work continuously with such a tool for a long time. It is rational to use it when it is necessary to perform short-term work in an open area remote from access to power supplies. For example, during the construction of a fence around the perimeter of a work site, during emergency opening of metal doors, or work in country houses without electricity. Despite some limitations, these models have a number of advantages:

high rotation speed of abrasive discs;
compact dimensions of the body and the instrument itself;
For safe storage and transportation, most of these angle grinders are supplied with a case made of impact-resistant plastic by default. This way you save on the additional purchase of that item;
due to its low weight, it will be very convenient to work; you can make precise cutting or trimming of materials;
most models are equipped with a number of additional protective functions;
the presence of an additional side handle significantly reduces the level of vibration, which makes it possible to hold the tool more evenly.

Let's look at the main disadvantages:

the operating period of the tool is limited by the battery capacity;
Not all models are equipped with a battery. In some cases it must be purchased separately;
limited disk size, and, therefore, a limited list of work performed;
high price.

Gasoline angle grinders

This type of grinder is clearly distinguished by its appearance. Their body has large dimensions. Inside it is placed a fuel tank and an internal combustion engine. Due to its large size, the tool is equipped with a massive frame-handle for easy holding and an auxiliary handle. Gasoline grinders are equipped with large-diameter discs and are used for cutting concrete and iron in places without access to an electrical network. This tool has an increased noise level due to the design of the motor. Work must be carried out using hearing protection.

The advantages of these models are as follows:

increased power and increased diameter of discs;
fast cutting of large objects - pipes, profiles, concrete products;
Autonomous operation thanks to a gasoline engine;
work can be performed continuously with regular refueling of the fuel tank;
the presence of a stand that allows you to use the grinder as a full-fledged cutting machine.

Disadvantages of gasoline grinders:

additional costs associated with the purchase of fuel;
high noise level during operation;
work only with nozzles of large diameters;
due to the large dimensions of the tool, it is not always possible to reach the cutting area in hard-to-reach places;
to avoid overheating of the engine, regular breaks in operation are necessary until it cools completely;
high price.

Pneumatic models

They have the same operating principle and purpose as other types of grinders, but differ in internal structure. These models do not have an engine, and the rotation of the nozzles is ensured by a powerful stream of compressed air acting on the blades inside the housing. When the blades rotate, the axis on which the disk is mounted is launched. To operate, a valve is used that allows air flow to the internal channel in the housing. Thanks to this structure, pneumatic angle grinders are the lightest among all possible types. The duration of its work is not limited and can last even the whole day. To operate such a tool, you need access to a compressor that pumps air, or to the air network. Due to such features, pneumatic tools are not used for household purposes. But in metalworking production these models are indispensable. Their advantages

very light weight;
due to the lack of a motor, overheating of the tool is impossible;
The minimum continuous operation time is 6-8 hours. It is limited solely by the human factor;
replacing bearings, valves and other parts will be inexpensive;
such models can be used in conditions of high humidity without any risk;
high rotation speed;
the operation of the instrument is absolutely silent. The sound appears only at the moment of contact with the surface being treated.

drawbacks :

high price;
the need for additional equipment that will ensure the functionality of the tool.

Summarize . To use an angle grinder at home, of course, the optimal type would be a network tool. It is more affordable, has the ability to work with different disk diameters, and is also more economical. By choosing the right size tool you can cope with a lot of tasks. However, if you plan to build a country house or long-term repairs on summer cottages, you should think about purchasing autonomous models that can cut both rebar and concrete blocks. The choice of power type directly depends on the work to be done.

Which manufacturers should you choose from?

There are about fifty brands on the Russian power tool market offering angle grinders with various technical characteristics and a wide range of prices. Among them the following main groups can be distinguished:

international manufacturers with well-known brands and their own research and production base;
domestic factories producing angle grinders under their own brands;
well-known Russian and international trade brands offering power tools manufactured to their order at Asian factories.

The first is headed by such top international brands as the Japanese Makita and Hitachi, the German Bosch, Metabo and Hilti, and the American DeWalt and Black & Decker. This list also includes the international concern Techtronic Industries, registered in Hong Kong, which produces some of the best grinders in different countries of the world under such well-known brands as Ryobi, AEG and Milwaukee. All these manufacturers produce both professional tools for industrial use and grinders for household use. Another well-known international brand in Russia with a good reputation is SPARKY.

These angle grinders are produced at the Bulgarian enterprise SPARKY ELTOS, which supplied angle grinders to the entire socialist camp back in Soviet times.

The main manufacturers of angle grinders in Russia are the Simferopol and Kirov electrical machine-building association LEPSE. For the first, power tools are one of the main types of products, and the manufacturer positions the LEPSE angle grinder in the category of consumer goods. Also, the assembly of angle grinders from imported components is carried out by the famous Russian brand Interskol. The largest group of power tools is represented by brands, among which the leading ones are Russian brands with a long history: Zubr, Enkor, Corvette and Kalibr. Among the German ones, we can note the BORT angle grinders and the Sturm angle grinders, which are quite popular in the lower price segment. Inexpensive power tools with professional technical characteristics in this group are represented by several brands, including Dexter angle grinders and several Hammer angle grinder models.

Tips for choosing cutting blade size

It is the diameter of the disc that is the key factor that determines the scope of work performed by the tool. It is worth noting that the seat diameter for circles has a standard size of 22.2 mm. But, the larger the diameter of the cutting wheel, the higher the rotation speed and power of the grinder. The minimum diameter is 115 mm, the maximum possible is 230 mm.

The diameter of the disc is selected depending on the thickness that will need to be cut. Based on the fact that not the entire part of the circle, but only the part protruding beyond the tool, can be used as a working part, it is necessary to pay attention to the size of the body. For example, if the case is about 60 mm wide, then when using a 125 mm disk it is easy to understand that only half of its surface will work. That is, it will be possible to cut through material no more than 35 mm thick, and in reality even less - 30 mm. After some time, the cutting surface of the disc will wear off, which will significantly reduce this indicator. Using these simple calculations, the required disk size is selected. But it is strongly recommended not to use circles with a larger diameter than allowed by the technical documentation.

To make it easier for you to navigate, let’s look at the types of grinders in more detail, based on the size of the disc:

An angle grinder of 115 mm is the minimum size for the simplest work. It is most often used for grinding, since cutting at this size is very inconvenient. A smaller diameter means less weight, which means less power. The weight is in the range of 1.5-3 kg, and the power is no more than 1000 W. But the “small” grinder has a maximum speed of 10-11 thousand rpm. It is possible to grip with both one and two hands. The size of the tool does not affect the price, and such a compact tool can have low cost, and vice versa. There are models equipped with many additional functions for professional use.
125 mm grinder is the most popular model. It has sufficient power, optimal weight and size for ease of use, and an affordable price. Any store has the most extensive selection of grinding or cutting wheels with a diameter of exactly 125 mm. This is the optimal tool for home use if you do not plan to cut too thick parts.
Bulgarian on 150 mm – unlike the previous model, it is not in such demand, although it is an excellent alternative option for home use if you need a model that is not small, but not large either. It is convenient to perform both grinding and cutting work. But many argue that a more convenient solution would be to buy separately a small one – 125 mm and a large one – 180 mm. This tool has an average power of 1000-1500 W, an average rotation speed of 8-10 thousand rpm and an average weight of 3-5 kg. "Golden mean" for home craftsmen.
180 mm grinder is a suitable option for construction work. The depth of the cut will make it easy to cut bricks (however, you still need to cut on both sides), thick pipes and other elements. This means that doing smaller jobs with such a tool may not be entirely convenient.
230 mm angle grinder is the maximum provided by the manufacturers. They call her the “big” grinder. It has a more significant weight - 5-8 kg, a powerful engine - 1500-2000 W, speed - 6-8 thousand rpm. They are equipped with two handles - rear stationary and side with the ability to be installed on different sides of the body. They are expensive, which is justified by the number of built-in functions. With its help, they perform rough work where the use of force is necessary, for example, cutting metal pipes, gating walls for wiring, etc. Such models are absolutely unsuitable for small jobs; even grinding seems unlikely. But for major repairs or construction work, they will come in handy.

Having analyzed the five possible sizes of this tool, it is clear that each has its own advantages and disadvantages. If you are engaged in construction work at a professional level, then the optimal solution for you would be to purchase two grinders. Small – 125 mm for precision work and medium – 180 mm. If you have to do repairs or construction, then a 150 or 180 mm tool is suitable.

The best angle grinders for 180 mm discs

This class occupies an intermediate position between full- and mid-size angle grinders. Therefore, everything is fine with the scope of application here - almost everywhere, but they buy it at a lower rate than others. For working with large materials or for cutting to a sufficient depth, take a maximum mass of 23 cm, but in everyday life they preferentially use a less voracious and heavy tool. However, if we are talking about those cases where even a few hundred grams or watts matter, this unit comes in handy.

DIOLD MSHU-1.5-01

Inexpensive for this type of grinder for periodic work. Its components are simple and reliable, unpretentious to working conditions. 8000 rpm is quite a high figure for a tool with a 180th disc. It is comfortable to hold the grinder due to the rubberized inserts. It is excellent for cutting work, but for grinding work it is a little heavy if you hold it suspended.

DIOLD MSHU-1.5-01

Options:

maximum disc diameter, mm: 180;
spindle speed, rpm: 8000;
power, W: 1500;
weight 3.4 kg.

pros

simple device;
comfortable holding;
low price.

Minuses

requires rest after a period of exertion.

Angle grinder DIOLD MSHU-1.5-01

Rebir LSM-180/1800

A classic grinder for a wide range of work: from cutting FEM tiles to cutting metal blanks. It is not suitable for dissolving sheet metal due to its heavy weight, but it outperforms small units due to its moderate speed at maximum speed, which allows the metal to not heat up so much, which is harmful for thin products. You can note the comfortable handle with a classic trigger equipped with a lock.

Rebir LSM-180/1800

Options:

maximum disc diameter, mm: 180;
spindle speed, rpm: 8000;
power, W: 1500;
weight 4.8 kg.

pros

ease of holding;
no vibration during operation;
easy replacement of brushes.

Minuses

the weight is too heavy.

Angle grinder Rebir LSM-180/1800

Fiolent MSHU9-16-180E

Once neighboring Ukraine could boast of an instrument of this brand; today the Crimean production association has passed to Russia. Political events have not affected the quality; these are still simple and reliable units without newfangled improvements, but with a solid margin of safety. Users love this technique, where the Soviet approach to instrumentation is still strong. Minor cosmetic imperfections are not serious drawbacks.

Fiolent MSHU9-16-180E

Options:

maximum disc diameter, mm: 180;
spindle speed, rpm: 8400;
power, W: 1600;
weight 2.8 kg.

pros

a light weight;
resourcefulness;
There is a starting current limitation.

Minuses

The gear housing does not match the geometry of the engine casing.

Angle grinder Fiolent MSHU9-16-180E

Main characteristics of the tool

When you have decided exactly what size tool you need, you can proceed to selecting according to the following parameters:

The power of an angle grinder is the main indicator of the tool’s performance. The possible power range varies from 0.5 to 2.7 kW, and the increase in power is not directly proportional to the diameter of the working disk. The performance indicator should be chosen according to the same principle as the size - depending on the degree of complexity of the work to be done and its duration. It is clear that using the maximum diameter of the working circle, it is necessary to choose models with a power rating of about 2 kW in order to ensure high rotation speed and increase continuous operation time. But even for small tools with a minimum disc diameter, high power is sometimes needed, especially if you have to continuously grind hard welds for several hours. A small tool with a power rating of 0.5-0.9 kW is considered household and is quite suitable for a small amount of work that does not involve lengthy cutting of pipes or grinding of concrete surfaces. For heavier work, models with a power of 1 to 1.5 kW, which are classified as professional, are suitable. For construction work, it is preferable to use grinders with a power of 1.3 to 2.7 kW.
Rotational speed The angle grinder ranges from 6000 to 15000 rpm. It is believed that the higher this indicator, the faster you can perform grinding work or clean the surface from rust and other contaminants. In practice, this indicator for each tool is selected individually depending on its weight and is optimal. The only thing you need to know is that the angular speed of rotation depends on the diameter of the working disk. Therefore, for large grinders it is preferable to have a speed control function. When erasing the working edge, this indicator must be reduced, thereby normalizing the speed of angular rotation. For domestic use, a tool with a minimum speed of 6000 rpm is sufficient. If there is construction ahead or work that includes polishing wooden surfaces or making wooden fencing, you will need a model with an indicator of 7000-11000 rpm. For cleaning car bodies and other metal surfaces, choose a tool with a speed of 15,000 rpm or more. These can often be seen at service stations.
The weight of the tool determines the duration of the work. Don't forget that working puts stress on your arms and back. The lightest tools, whose weight starts from 1.2 kg, are suitable for daily work lasting no more than 4 hours. Medium grinders weighing from 3 to 4 kg are suitable for work for 2-3 hours every day. For heavy work, it is necessary to choose larger models that will cope with the task faster and do not require much effort from the operator. Their weight is 6-9 kg.
Number of handles. Grinders can be one-handed or two-handed. This immediately catches your eye when visiting specialized stores. All models have a main handle, which is screwed into the spindle itself and can be rearranged on different sides of the body. This makes working with the tool equally convenient for both right-handers and left-handers. The second handle is either the body itself or an additional handle at the end. This makes it possible to hold the tool with both hands if necessary. The choice of the number of handles is again based on the nature of the work to be done. It will be equally convenient to carry out cutting work with a tool with one handle or with two, but it is dangerous to perform grinding work with a one-handed tool. During operation, the grinder can skid strongly and even a physically strong person will have difficulty holding it. Therefore, when choosing powerful models for grinding, look only at two-handed ones. Grinders for fine grinding of low power can also be one-handed. The main handle should preferably have finger protection for large instruments and an extension at the top for small ones. This will prevent the tool from slipping out of tired or sweaty hands. The auxiliary handle should be mushroom-shaped and ideally be able to twist in several positions. This will make working with the grinder as convenient as possible. Both handles must have a rubberized coating.
or capacity . Gasoline models have a tank volume of 0.7 to 1.5 liters. If you have the opportunity to carry an additional canister of fuel with you, then this indicator does not matter. Cordless angle grinders have a battery capacity of 2-4 A/h. Thanks to this, the spindle rotation speed reaches up to 11,000 rpm. Accordingly, the larger the capacity, the longer the operating time of the tool. For short-term work, the minimum indicator is sufficient.
Air pressure and speed – for pneumatic models. Speed is important in maintaining a high RPM. This figure reaches from 100 to 540 liters/min. The larger the disc diameter, the higher the feed speed should be. The pressure reaches from 6 to 6.5 atmospheres.

Classification

Modern manufacturers offer various types of angle grinders. All existing models are divided into:

Household;
Professional;
Small;
Average;
Large;
Rechargeable;
Network.

Useful additional features

More expensive models are equipped with a number of additional features. For example:

Case It will be very useful if you plan to frequently transport the instrument, or simply for storage and protection from dust and accidental impacts. The grinder must be securely fixed in special recesses. The case can accommodate all the necessary keys and disks.
soft start system allows you to minimize the load on the engine. When you turn on the tool, the rotation speed will be minimal, gradually increasing. This will protect the internal elements of the gearbox from a sharp impact and from biting the disk in a hard surface. Accordingly, such a tool is easier and more convenient to use.
Locking the start button also makes work much easier. There is no need to constantly hold the power button pressed, which always quickly tires your hands. Using a small additional button located next to the trigger, you can lock it in the on position.
Adjustment of disk rotation speed - this function is present in expensive professional models. You can independently set the required rotation speed depending on the work being performed and the diameter of the working disk. This will eliminate the need to purchase multiple tools. But if you do not have the skills to work with an angle grinder, difficulties may arise in independently selecting modes, and the end result will not live up to expectations. You may end up with crooked cuts and other troubles.
Stabilization of the speed depending on the load on the disk. This function is useful regardless of the user’s skills. The tool automatically selects the optimal rotation speed and optimizes the work process. It is very useful when working with heterogeneous materials that have a soft outer coating and a hard core or vice versa. The electronics recognizes the load change and instantly adjusts the speed.
Dust protection is very important when working on concrete surfaces. The gearbox and shaft will be reliably protected from the ingress of small abrasive particles. The service life of the grinder depends on this. Models with this function are very expensive, so if you are not involved in construction, then at home you can do without it.
Automatic disk balancing is inherent in very high-quality instruments. The point is that angle grinders smooth out the runout that occurs when the working edge of the disk is unevenly worn. This is very useful for polishing work. You will notice the difference in working with the tool with and without this function within an hour.
The ability to connect a construction vacuum cleaner makes work more comfortable and allows less pollution of the surrounding space, the tool itself, and the worker’s respiratory tract. This is an alternative to the built-in dust protection function at a more affordable price.
Automatic power outage will be useful during power outages. If the light goes out during operation, the machine will work, turning off the power to the angle grinder, and it will not start rotating when the power supply is restored.

Marking

Most manufacturers mark the grinder with special sets of letters and numbers indicating the technical parameters of the device. There are no generally accepted rules for creating abbreviations: the manufacturer independently comes up with an algorithm.

Angle grinder Makita 9565CV. Photo 220Volt

Knowing the decoding of the markings, it is easier to choose the right angle grinder and the equipment that matches it.

As an example of labeling, let's present you with the Makita brand system:

The letters at the beginning indicate the type of tool, and the letters at the end indicate additional options:

A – engine brake;
B – double insulation;
C – constant electronics;
D – device with a DC motor;
E – improved housing type;
F – superflange;
K – presence of a case;
L – reduced spindle speed;
N – gearbox type;
P – panel switch;
R – modernized design;
S – starting current limitation (“soft start”);
V – speed control;
Z – no accessories.

Proven brands and price range

To buy a reliable tool that will serve you for many years, you should consider only trusted manufacturers and do not skimp when purchasing. After analyzing reviews from ordinary consumers and professional users, we have identified several of the most popular brands:

STURM is a proven co-production company from Germany and China. We can highlight one of the popular models that is suitable for home and country use - AG9512P. The diameter of the working disk is 125 mm, while the machine produces a power of 1 kW with a speed of 4 to 11 thousand rpm. It has a comfortable weight - only 2.5 kg and an affordable price - about 3800 rubles. equipped with additional functions such as speed control, soft start, and anti-jamming protection. The handle can be installed in three different positions.
Makita is a well-known brand for the production of hand tools. Made in Japan, there are factories in China and Romania. An inexpensive but high-quality model that is suitable for both home and professional use is model 9555 HN. The disk diameter is also 125 mm, the power is slightly lower - 0.71 kW. The speed reaches 10 thousand rpm. This model is lighter - 1.9 kg, but is not equipped with any additional functions. Its cost is about 3600 rubles.
Metabo , Germany. For heavier construction work, which involves processing stone or concrete, the W 2000 model is suitable. It has a maximum working disk diameter of 230 mm, an impressive power of 2 kW and a weight of 5.8 kg. The speed is about 6.6 thousand rpm. Equipped with a premature start protection function. The price of this model is about 6900 rubles.
DeWALT – doesn’t even need a description. Made in USA. Among the more powerful and professional models, we can highlight the medium-sized model - D 28136. The disc diameter is 125 mm, the power reaches 1.5 kW, and the speed ranges from 2.8 to 10 thousand rpm. The tool weighs 2.6 kg. Sold complete with a case, it has a speed control function, soft start and protection against intentional starting. For one-time use at home it has a high price - 7800 rubles, but for professional use it is optimal.
Sparky is a real “grinder”, made in Bulgaria, where the name comes from. Among the entire model range, the M 850E model is the most suitable for home use, reliable and compact. Its weight is 2.4 kg, the diameter of the working circle is 125 mm. The machine has a power of 0.85 kW and a speed of rotation from 3 to 10 thousand rpm. Equipped with speed control function and soft start. The price is about 3,700 rubles.
Among domestic manufacturers, we can highlight the Energomash and its model UShM-9512P, which is suitable for work in an apartment or in a country house. This model is not recommended for continuous operation over a long period of time; there is a risk of overheating. The tool weighs 2.5 kg, has a power of 0.85 kW and a rotation speed of 3-10 thousand rpm. Disc diameter 125 mm, price around 3,700 rubles.
"SPECIALIST" - another worthy representative of domestic production. The BShU-1050 model is distinguished by its low cost - only 2100 thousand and a good price/quality ratio. Suitable for small jobs around the house. Does not have additional functions. Working diameter is 125 mm, power is 1.1 kW. Speed 11 thousand rpm. Machine weight – 2.3 kg.

When choosing such a necessary tool, you should not buy it in unknown places. It’s better to go to a specialized store, be sure to check the functionality on site, carefully inspect all connections, check whether there is a guarantee and what the product is equipped with. Pay attention to the start button, or rather its size. It should be large enough so that even with rough gloves you won’t have any difficulty turning it on.

The best full-size angle grinders for 230 mm discs

Grinders with a 23 cm circle are suitable for serious work that requires deep cutting and fast work. In addition, these devices are most convenient to use for cutting bricks, tiles and other stone products that have a significant thickness - the diameter of the disk allows them to be unraveled and sawed off in one pass.

VORTEX USHM-230/2300

The company is Russian, the assembly is Chinese - a typical picture for the modern sector of household and sometimes professional electrical equipment. The grinder turned out to be simple and average in terms of convenience: the advantages are a reliable electric motor with a good power of 2300 W, a strong body, but the locking button on the side is located inconveniently - a traditional double trigger would be more useful. The safety guard on the control handle is a controversial issue - it protects your fingers during operation, but will prevent you from quickly throwing the tool in the event of an emergency.

VORTEX USHM-230/2300

Options:

maximum disc diameter, mm: 230;
spindle speed, rpm: 6000;
power, W: 2300;
weight 5.6 kg.

pros

durable body;
simple design;
reasonable price.

Minuses

inconvenient trigger lock button.

USHM VORTEX USHM-230/2300

Hitachi G23ST

The grinder is from a famous Japanese brand, assembled in China, which has a positive effect on the price. The tool cannot be called professional - rather, it is a reliable semi-professional model. Good work and careful fitting of parts do not eliminate noise and vibration. Otherwise, the tool is trustworthy, especially considering its reasonable price. By the way, the manufacturer includes a gift set of a good disc for concrete, because cutting stone is probably the main purpose of powerful grinders with a large disc.

Hitachi G23ST

Options:

maximum disc diameter, mm: 230;
spindle speed, rpm: 6600;
power, W: 2000;
weight 5.1 kg.

pros

thoughtful design;
disc for concrete included;
excellent ergonomics and nice design.

Minuses

Sometimes there is not enough power under load.

Hitachi G23ST angle grinder

Makita GA9020

It’s not for nothing that the first place goes to Makita - it is among angle grinders that this manufacturer has the strongest position. Legendary reliability will serve you well in professional use. The unit successfully copes with both concrete grinding and diamond cutting of stone. When water is supplied for cooling and dust removal, the tool can work for hours with short breaks to cool the engine. However, good dust protection makes it easy to withstand very “dirty” work without consequences or damage. The price is more than adequate for the capabilities it provides.

Makita GA9020

Options:

maximum disc diameter, mm: 230;
spindle speed, rpm: 6600;
power, W: 2200;
weight 5.9 kg.

pros

reliable operation;
engine dust protection;
long-term operation.

Minuses

heavy weight.

Angle grinder Makita GA9020

Regulator circuit

An important option for increasing the versatility of work is equipping angle grinders with a speed regulator . Some models have a standard, factory-made device, while others can be installed with self-made ones.

Homemade speed controllers are based mainly on circuits with basic semiconductor devices - triacs and thyristors. They differ in the limits for changing the speed - a circuit based on thyristors reduces the speed to zero, triac regulators have a specific value different from zero. It is not possible to maintain power at reduced speeds with such electronic circuits.

Adjustment wheel on the body of a DEWALT DWE4257 angle grinder. Photo VseInstruments.ru

Industrial angle grinders with a rotation speed controller have a speed stabilization system , which works on the feedback principle. A special sensor installed in a certain place on the angle grinder serves as the source of the signal about the change in speed. This scheme allows you to save power in angle grinder operating modes with reduced speed.

How to choose an angle grinder for your home: 7 tips for choosing an angle grinder

Operating principle and scope

Design of angle grinders, components

Operating principle of an angle grinder

Types of grinders

Network angle grinders

Cordless angle grinders

Gasoline angle grinders

Pneumatic models

Which manufacturers should you choose from?

Tips for choosing cutting blade size

The best angle grinders for 180 mm discs

DIOLD MSHU-1.5-01

Rebir LSM-180/1800

Fiolent MSHU9-16-180E

Main characteristics of the tool

Classification

Useful additional features

Marking

Proven brands and price range

The best full-size angle grinders for 230 mm discs

VORTEX USHM-230/2300

Hitachi G23ST

Makita GA9020

Regulator circuit

Popular questions

How to make your own speed controller with your own hands without losing power

Lost, disappeared, lost power, what to do if lost

How to reduce revs while maintaining power

How to increase

Power without gearbox