Why Are Angle Grinders So Noisy? – Detailed Guide

Angle grinders are widely used in the metallurgical and panel-beating industries. These grinders are fitted with Arbortech discs and are used for carving wood. The tool has various accessories, including wire wheels, polishing pads, and sanding discs. Since 1984, every angle grinder has exceeded the sound levels of 90 dB(A), demanding ear protectors.

In general, sound levels below 70 dBA are considered safe. However, according to researchers, listening to sounds at or above 85 dBA for a long period can significantly increase the risk of permanent hearing loss. This article aims to identify the causes of noise and vibration produced by portable grinders and the tips to reduce them.

How Loud Are Angle Grinders?

Various components, such as bearing wear, gearbox wear, and the age of the tool, can all contribute to the loudness of an angle grinder. As a general guideline, 100mm angle grinders can reach noise levels from 95-100 dBAs when used without attachments. Manufacturers should be able to provide data on noise levels for their higher-quality tools. Unfortunately, due to its resemblance to a rock performance (110 dB), the noise created by angle grinders can add significantly to existing sound pollution in certain areas.

Can Angle Grinder Noise Damage Worker’s Hearing?

It is important to note that the noise generated by angle grinders can be harmful to workers who use them regularly. Prolonged exposure to loud noise can damage hearing, causing tinnitus and hearing loss. This is why it is important for workers who use angle grinders to protect their hearing by wearing appropriate hearing protection.

Why Are Angle Grinders So Noisy?

There are many reasons that can cause angle grinders to produce so much noise. Firstly, a worn-out bearing or broken gears with missing teeth can make sounds like rumbling, growling, grinding, or growling. Secondly, in addition to being dangerous, a worn or irregularly shaped disc makes more noise than one in a good state.

Furthermore, the high-speed spinning wheel on the grounded material produces the grinding force. The grinding wheel and the metal being ground are both excited by this force, which can cause noise and vibration. Above all, another obvious source of noise from pneumatic grinders is the air discharge at the motor.

Moreover, the spindle of the grinder is present inside the spindle box assembly. To mount the grinding wheel, the spindle has a threaded end. A spindle that has been eroded away or damaged may no longer perform properly and may be out of alignment which results in noises coming from the spindle itself.

Angle Grinder Noise Reduction Tips

Employers are required to manage noise by the hierarchy of control measures described below:

1. Maintenance Guidelines

The amount of noise generated by machines can be significantly reduced with routine maintenance. Maintenance consists of the following:

Select the appropriate disc for the job.

Make sure that the brushes and bearings are functioning properly.

Check to see if the blade guard is firmly attached and not rattling.

2. Noise Management

• Lessen the material’s vibration while cutting or ground by working near the work area
• Use the tool outdoors whenever possible, but be cautious of the noise it may cause in nearby locations.
• Cover surfaces near the grinding area with acoustic absorption materials to minimize reflected sound or use perforated metal-faced fiberglass insulation.

3. Administrator Guide

• For particular jobs, use alternative tools. Use a power hacksaw, guillotine, hand cutters, and portable reciprocating saws, for instance, for cutting metal.
• Avoid applying too much force, especially when cutting sheet metal.
• Keep your grinder at arm’s length from your ears. By doing this, noise exposure is reduced.

4. Use Alternative Options

• Old, worn-out angle grinders should be replaced with “quieter or newer equipment.” For instance, when free running, 100 mm Angle Grinders’ noise levels might range from 95 to 100 dB. (A). This is based on bearing wear, gearbox wear, and tool age. Some better tool makers can provide noise-level information on the tool’s performance.
• Use bench grinders wherever necessary.

FAQs about Angle Grinders Noise

What Is An Angle Grinder?

Angle Grinder is a machine having a rotating abrasive disc used for cutting, grinding, or polishing metal and other solids.

How Loud Is An Angle Grinder?

Portable angle grinders can make noises between 90 and 115 dB(A).

How Can We Maintain An Angle Grinder?

We must ensure that the grinder’s brushes, bearings, and blade guard are functioning properly. Moreover, selecting the appropriate disc for the job can help a lot in noise reduction.

Conclusion

To conclude, before implementing the control action described above, enterprises must ensure that each degree of the hierarchy is practically achievable. This means employers should not simply apply hearing protectors to reduce noise without implementing higher-level control measures. To effectively manage noise, it is frequently required to apply a mix of control techniques.