Battery powered angle grinders: advantages and disadvantages, selection tips, best models

Grinder from a car battery: advantages and disadvantages of use

Often a real man has to do various types of repair work. Both in a private house and in a garage, it is often necessary to cut off various hard materials (metal, stone, etc.) that are difficult to process. It is the grinder (angle grinder) that simplifies working with such materials and is an indispensable power tool in everyday life. Currently, an angle grinder from a car battery is of interest to many hobbyists. Let's try to understand its advantages over traditional models of angle grinders and analyze when it is necessary to have such a cordless angle grinder on the household.

The best models in terms of price and quality ratio with a disc size of more than 125 mm

The presented angle grinders are distinguished by their increased power and are suitable for performing work in hard-to-reach places.

Metabo WPB 36-18 LTX BL 230 0 Case, 230 mm, without battery

The Metabo WPB 36-18 LTX BL 230 0 Case cordless grinder, which can work with discs with a diameter of up to 230 mm, is an indispensable tool for cutting and grinding parts/surfaces without a network connection.

Maximum operator safety during operation is guaranteed by the quick-release design of the protective casing, anti-vibration system, smooth start and instant stop without jerking.

Ease of use is provided by the switch button with an abrasive coating.

The three-position additional handle makes it easy to hold the device during prolonged intensive use.

The brushless motor is protected against overloads and dust.

Key Features:

• maximum disc diameter - 230 mm;
• spindle thread - M14;
• mounting hole - 22 mm;
• rotation speed - 6600 rpm;
• battery voltage - 18 V;
• handle - three-position;
• equipment weight - 6.5 kg;
• features - overload protection system, spindle lock, additional handle, soft start, motor brake.

Advantages

• speed stability under high load;
• comfortable handle;
• functionality;
• quality of execution.

Flaws

• heavy weight;
• not an affordable price tag;
• No charger or battery included.

Metabo WB 18 LTX BL 180 0 MetaLoc, 180 mm

The professional-grade cordless angle grinder Metabo WB 18 LTX BL 180 0 MetaLoc with support for discs with a diameter of up to 180 mm will provide a uniform cutting depth similar to a powerful corded grinder.

The presented angle grinder is equipped with a closed brushless proprietary motor with a sophisticated system of protection against dirt and dust.

The brake lock provides maximum operator protection by stopping the disc when turned off.

The protective cover is adjustable without tools and has a rotation lock.

The swivel type battery makes it easier to work in tight spaces. The device is compatible with most 18-volt batteries and pulse chargers.

Key Features:

• maximum disc diameter - 180 mm;
• spindle thread - M14;
• mounting hole - 22 mm;
• rotation speed - 8200 rpm;
• battery voltage - 18 V;
• equipment weight - 2.6 kg;
• features - overload protection system, spindle lock, lockable button, additional handle, soft start, motor brake.

Advantages

• body ergonomics;
• relatively light weight;
• stable speed;
• big circle;
• capacious battery.

Flaws

• low power;
• low speed;
• noisy model.

Metabo WPB 36 LTX BL 230 Q 6.2Ah x2 Case, 230 mm

The Metabo WPB 36 LTX BL 230 Q 6.2Ah x2 Case angle grinder, supporting discs with a diameter of up to 230 mm and powered by rechargeable batteries, is designed for productive cutting/grinding in the absence of an electrical outlet.

The grinder has a wide range of applications, the cutting depth reaches 7.7 cm.

The device is equipped with a closed brushless proprietary motor, a non-locking switch with automatic locking, and a braking system.

The safety guard can be adjusted without tools.

The main rotary handle provides reliability and ease of use, the additional handle effectively dampens vibration, ensuring user comfort.

Key Features:

• maximum disc diameter - 230 mm;
• spindle thread - M14;
• mounting hole - 22 mm;
• rotation speed - 9000 rpm;
• battery voltage - 36 V;
• handle - three-position;
• equipment weight - 2.6 kg;
• features - overload protection system, spindle lock, lockable button, additional handle, soft start, motor brake.

Advantages

• strong body;
• high-quality assembly;
• anti-vibration coating;
• two batteries included;
• smooth and stable speed.

Flaws

• high price tag of the model;
• expensive equipment.

When to choose a cordless angle grinder

Many gentlemen cannot immediately decide which grinder (angle grinder) they want to have. To do this, it is important to know what materials and to what depth you will use it for cutting. The diameter of the circle installed on the power tool depends on this. It is also important to know the power required by your future power tool. Stationary angle grinders have more weight and impressive dimensions. However, their power and functionality are much greater.

Similar model characteristics

When buying an angle grinder, pay attention to the number of batteries included.
Cordless angle grinders can hardly be called low-noise devices, but they operate much quieter than similar units powered from the mains. If we are talking about brands, then the difference in the noise level of domestic and foreign models is extremely small.

The device security indicator has approximately the same parameters. All manufacturers, without exception, declare that if the unit fails, its engine will immediately turn off. The difference in the implementation of this parameter in practice is a few seconds.

Assessing the ergonomics of equipment is quite difficult, since the assessment of this parameter is always very individual. This parameter is studied based on such indicators as the principle of placing the casing in a convenient position, the features of switching on the operating key and the location of the overload sensors.

Practice shows that all modern angle grinders are very practical, although two batteries can discharge quite quickly (10 minutes under intense load, for example, grinding). However, such units are usually used as auxiliary tools that work for a short time and with frequent stops. If the work requires a significant load on the angle grinder, it is better to give preference to a network analogue connected to a generator. In other cases, the number of cuts, if they are not carried out one by one, can exceed 100; with timely breaks, the batteries do not overheat.

An additional advantage of angle grinders is that additional equipment can be connected to their batteries - for example, a crimper for fittings or a hammer drill, so two batteries can be enough to perform work on at least one site, and in some situations for the whole day.

When buying an angle grinder, it is important to pay attention to the battery capacity, the duration of operation depends on this.

Depending on the Ampere capacity, the graphs show the operating time of different angle grinders

Why do you need an angle grinder from a car battery?

A grinder from a car battery is made by many “traditional craftsmen” independently. Its special feature is that a low voltage car battery is sufficient to charge this angle grinder. And this model of angle grinder costs much less than a purchased one. This tool is used to cut many materials, including PCB and glass. Sometimes it is equipped with a circular cutter, which adds additional functions to a circular saw.

You can learn about methods for making an angle grinder from a car battery in special technical magazines or from videos on the Internet. Currently, homemade angle grinders are sold second-hand. The price for such products is negotiable.

What features of cordless angle grinders should you pay attention to when choosing?

There are a few key points to consider when purchasing a cordless angle grinder:

• Disc diameter. This is a characteristic that determines the depth of the maximum cut. Small cutting wheels (115 mm) allow you to cut materials of small thickness, large ones (230 mm) allow you to perform voluminous work. The most popular disc size is 125 mm - the most versatile.
• Rotation frequency. The low speed of rotation of the disc allows for high-quality cutting of soft materials. High speed machines are better at cutting hard metals.
• Speed ​​adjustment. The function can be implemented using a switch with two or three fixed positions or a smooth change in speed with a moving lever. The latter option is more often found in expensive professional models.
• Smooth launch. This system eliminates shock loads, engine jerks, and reduces the occurrence of large starting currents. The listed conditions are a common cause of breakdowns of an electric motor that does not have this function.
• Disc lock. Modern models of angle grinders are equipped with a special SDS nut, which makes it possible to change the cutting wheel in a matter of seconds. No additional tool is required.
• Protective cover. The main part that protects the operator from injury. Budget models are usually equipped with a casing with rigid fixation. Professional devices are provided with the ability to adjust the position of the casing, including without the use of additional tools.
• Safety system. A multi-level security system may include protection against accidental starting, jamming, restarting, and a function for maintaining the number of revolutions. Protective options increase the cost of equipment, but provide an important advantage - safety during work.

A little about making a homemade grinder

There is no one method for making an angle grinder from a car battery. As a rule, electrocorundum is used to make disks, and a diode bridge is used for power supply. Many “homemade” people remove the motor from the screwdriver. It can be of different brands and power. The processing disk is made from a regular large disk using pliers.

Most often, such an angle grinder is produced from a 15V battery. As a rule, homemade angle grinders are equipped with a diamond wheel for processing (to improve the quality of work) or a disk cutter mechanism for the additional function of a circular saw. Sets of cutters are usually purchased in construction stores or ordered from online stores.

Advantages

A portable power tool is convenient because it can be used to work on structures that are inaccessible to conventional tools. Battery-powered grinders have recently appeared on the market. One of the key characteristics of a modern battery-powered angle grinder is its mobility, portability and convenience. The characteristics of this type of grinder allow you to use the tool at heights and in places where there is no source of electricity, even in rooms with high humidity levels. Portable angle grinders can be professional or made independently. A grinder from a car battery is usually made by many craftsmen.

So, the main “advantages” of cordless angle grinders are:

• Ease. Their weight is about 1–4 kg. The exact weight of the tool depends on its power. At the same time, the device can be held in one hand, which allows you to work in difficult conditions at heights, with suspended ceilings, with equipment, etc.
• Portability. Since the battery provides power to the device and its sufficient functionality, it does not need to be connected to the network. Due to the absence of the need to depend on a power source, such an angle grinder can easily be taken on the road for repairs, to the country house, or for the construction of remote facilities.
• Convenience. It is enough to pick up this device to appreciate its convenience. When working with a portable angle grinder, professionals immediately note the comfortable grip and minimal strain on the hands.
• Minimum noise level. The cordless angle grinder is quieter (in the range of 35–65 dB) compared to corded tools (from 65 dB), and its motor has a smooth release.
• A portable angle grinder is easier to hold in your hands. The reason is that the cordless type of angle grinder makes fewer revolutions than its stationary version, and therefore does not “jump” out of your hands. It is important that the device works uninterruptedly when biting the disc and processing complex parts of parts.

The best models with a 125 mm disc size for professional use

Productive and powerful two-handed devices are designed for continuous and long-term use.

Metabo WF 18 LTX 125 Quick 5.5Ah x2 Case, 125 mm

Professional cordless grinder Metabo WF 18 LTX 125 Quick 5.5Ah x2 Case, compatible with equipment with a diameter of 125 mm, is equipped with two batteries, a charger, an additional handle, a disk and a case.

The capacity of one complete Li-HD battery is 5.5 Ah.

The device is equipped with a starting current limiter, a spindle lock, a reliable overload protection system, and a locking start button.

The maximum disk rotation speed in this model is 8000 rpm.

The device is equipped with a flat gearbox and an additional handle with a two-position switch.

Key Features:

• maximum disc diameter - 125 mm;
• spindle thread - M14;
• mounting hole - 22 mm;
• rotation speed - 8000 rpm;
• battery voltage - 18 V;
• handle - two-position;
• equipment weight - 2.5 kg;
• features - overload protection system, spindle lock, lockable button, additional handle, soft start.

Advantages

• protection and blocking system;
• flat gearbox;
• smooth and quiet running;
• light weight.

Flaws

• high price tag;
• not an ergonomic case;
• slow charging.

DeWALT DCG412M2 4.0Ah x2 case, 125 mm

The DeWALT DCG412M2 4.0Ah x2 cordless angle grinder with an ergonomic case included and an electronic brake locking system will allow you to work effectively using 125 mm discs.

The device is equipped with an electronic motor brake to quickly stop operation when the trigger is released, a clutch that reduces recoil when the equipment is pinched, and mesh elements that limit the entry of dust into the engine.

This grinder has a two-position side handle with a rubber pad for improved grip and comfortable work.

The package includes two batteries and a pulse charger.

Key Features:

• maximum disc diameter - 125 mm;
• spindle thread - M14;
• mounting hole - 22 mm;
• rotation speed - 7000 rpm;
• battery voltage - 18 V;
• handle - two-position;
• equipment weight - 2.9 kg;
• Features: spindle lock, lockable button, additional handle.

Advantages

• high power;
• comfortable handle;
• ergonomic design;
• build quality and materials.

Flaws

• cost of grinder;
• low speed;
• heavy weight.

BOSCH GWS 180-Li 4.0Ah x2, GAL 18V-40 case, 125 mm

A cordless angle grinder with a brushless motor and a case included, BOSCH GWS 180-Li 4.0Ah x2 GAL 18V-40, will provide work with 125 mm discs, not being inferior in capabilities to networked analogues with a power of 0.7 kW.

The additional handle of the device has a relief coating, which allows you to securely hold the device in your hands.

The quick-release protective cover is adjustable without the use of additional tools, and the spindle locking system makes it easy to change accessories.

The protective mesh on the housing protects the engine from dust and dirt. The device is equipped with two batteries and a charger.

Key Features:

• maximum disc diameter - 125 mm;
• spindle thread - M14;
• mounting hole - 22 mm;
• rotation speed - 11000 rpm;
• battery voltage - 18 V;
• handle - two-position;
• equipment weight - 1.6 kg;
• Features: overload protection system, spindle lock, additional handle, dust collector.

Advantages

• mobility;
• quiet operation;
• comfortable grip;
• performance.

Flaws

• autonomy;
• case ergonomics;
• no cutting wheel included.

Flaws

To objectively assess all the qualities of an angle grinder from a car battery, it is important to know its shortcomings. And this device has a lot of them. Indeed, due to its portability, all the important parts of this type of angle grinder are made small, which is why many parameters of the device lag behind the stationary type in efficiency.

The main disadvantages of a cordless angle grinder are:

• Low power. This tool is not suitable for sawing thick materials and metal structures. The design is more suitable as an auxiliary tool. Moreover, after just a few minutes of operation, the power of the angle grinder drops sharply, the speed decreases, and the battery runs out.
• Expensive. If you buy a professional device, then its price will consist of the price of the grinder itself and the battery. When purchasing a tool made in China, no one can vouch for the quality of the grinder. A homemade angle grinder can be very useful for its owners. However, for this you need to have certain skills and mastery.
• The battery lasts no more than 30–60 minutes of operation. At the same time, it takes a long time to charge (2–4 hours). Thus, for normal continuous operation you need to have at least 2-3 batteries and chargers. And for this price you can buy a corded angle grinder along with a generator.
• Very hot when charging. At the same time, additional fire protection measures increase the cost of the device.
• It is difficult to find spare parts for such a homemade or purchased device. It will not be possible to repair it at a service center.
• The fragility of the structure due to the material used to make the case (plastic) in purchased cordless angle grinder models. When purchasing or making metal models, the weight of the structures will be significant, and it will be very difficult to hold the device in one hand.
• Small variability of models. There are not many options for homemade models with such a drive, which makes it difficult for many users to choose the right functionality for themselves.

Safety at work

The grinder is one of the most dangerous tools. If the disk breaks during operation, its fragments will scatter at crazy speed, often injuring the operator or people nearby.

When working with an angle grinder (scraping materials, cutting), metal, stone or plastic dust is generated, which is especially dangerous for breathing. Therefore, when working with this tool, it is important to use personal protective equipment: a respirator, goggles, gloves and thick clothing for the whole body.

For an angle grinder, it is important to select equipment that corresponds to the speed of rotation of a given mechanism model, its thickness and seat rotation. In this case, it is necessary to secure the disk as much as possible and firmly fix the part for processing with both hands.

Cordless angle grinders are not always suitable. Many men prefer a regular stationary angle grinder. But light and grippy cordless angle grinders are very convenient and can be used in any conditions, especially where it is impossible to work with stationary tools.

Key parameters when choosing a good battery-powered angle grinder

When choosing an angle grinder from the most popular models, you should pay attention to several key parameters:

• Ultimate voltage;
• Battery capacity;
• Possible amount of work that can be completed with one battery charge;
• Number of cuts on one battery charge;
• Efficiency of grinding work when using two types of bakelite grinding wheels (6 mm and 3 mm thick);
• Resistance to low temperatures (it is known that at low temperatures the performance of batteries decreases significantly, therefore products that do not lose performance in the cold are considered to be of higher quality);
• Sanding quality.

An additional evaluation parameter can be the spindle speed fluctuation indicator. As a rule, it is lower for battery devices than for units operating from the network. Fluctuations in spindle speed affect wheel consumption and productivity: the lower the speed, the faster the wheels wear.

It is also important to monitor how the temperature of important components of the unit changes after intensive work. It is known that heating increases with higher work intensity, causing shortened cell life and poor battery performance. Developers pay a lot of attention to this parameter, trying to find the optimal balance in fairly strict boundary conditions.

How to power an angle grinder from a car

#1 OFF SITE Ervin

• User
• Registration: 23 Jun 2014
• 72 messages
• Car: Pajero 1, TLC 70, Jimny
• Name: Ervin
• Gender: Man
• City: Kyiv

The question of how to feed an angle grinder on expeditions arose.

Judging by googling, a regular car inverter is not the best solution.

Now I'm looking at inverter generators.

I would like to fit in $300

Who can advise what?

#2 OFF SITE Des

• Car: Suzuki Samurai 3.5 pcs