No workshop is complete without a bench grinder. These handy pieces of equipment have many applications and can do a lot of things. Bench grinders are  designed to be securely mounted on a sturdy tool bench or on a metal pedestal that is bolted to the floor. They generally have to wheels on either side of the electric motor to put different types of grinding wheels on them. Each wheel has a protective guard mounted on it that leaves about a third of the wheel exposed. They can be very hazardous to you eyes. At the bottom of the wheel is a tool rest to support the item you are grinding and above that is a polycarbonate eye shield to protect you from sparks and metal debris. However you should always wear safety glasses when operating a bench grinder.
    There are several different types of grinding wheel that you put on a bench grinder. Here are few of the different types that you will need:

1.    Grinding wheels – A grinding wheel is a hard disc of man-made abrasive material. Grindstones are primarily used to shape metal, sharpen chisels, lathe tools, and drill bits.
2.    Wire brush wheels – These are one of the most handy wheels. Wire brush wheels are great for removing rust, scale, and corrosion from metal objects. A wire wheel can restore the surface of rusted metal to almost new condition.
3.    Buffing wheels – These can restore a finish on plated and solid metal surfaces. Buffing wheels are composed of several layers of cloth stacked up and sewn together. Rubbing compound is applied to the buff and then used on the piece you are buffing.

There are countless uses for a bench grinder and is a must have tool for your auto shop. The bigger the better and  there are several models to choose from.