Intro to Millwright Practice Exam 2025 - Free Millwright Skills Practice Questions and Study Guide

The two styles of portable grinders are straight and angle grinders. This classification is based on the orientation of the motor and the grinding wheel.

A straight grinder features a straight shaft, allowing for portability and precision in applications that require a more direct line of sight and access, such as in confined spaces or for detailed work. This type is often used for tasks like polishing, cutting, or grinding when a high level of control is necessary.

In contrast, an angle grinder has a gearbox that allows the grinding disk to be positioned at a 90-degree angle relative to the motor. This design is particularly advantageous for cutting, grinding, and sharpening in various applications, owing to the increased versatility and power it provides for different materials.

The distinction between straight and angle grinders plays a significant role in the choice of tool for specific tasks in millwright applications, which may include metal fabrication, maintenance, and repair work. Understanding these differences helps in selecting the appropriate tool for the job, ensuring efficiency and effectiveness in performing grinding tasks.