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20/07/2019
Tools

Is It Worth Having a Cordless Grinder?

If you’re tired of cables, this article will interest you. Advantages and disadvantages of the rechargeable cordless grinder.

CORDLESS GRINDER: Is It Worth It?
 
 
 
This is an option that is slowly gaining ground in catalogs, thanks to the incorporation of new technology and excellent features. Today, we’ll analyze the pros and cons of using a cordless angle grinder, whether as a primary tool or as an alternative for specific situations. We’ll also look at the features of some models available in our country. It’s worth noting that this article specifically refers to 4" grinders.

Advantages of a Cordless Grinder

Although it may seem obvious, versatility is its standout feature, as it allows you to move freely without being connected to the power grid. In some cases and for certain tasks, the cable becomes a nuisance, and in these situations, we value the independence of a battery-powered tool the most. And that’s where the list of advantages ends.

Currently, new models are being marketed with significant improvements compared to the first cordless grinders. These advantages include:

  • Longer battery life.
  • Higher power.
  • Same speed as a 220V grinder.
  • Similar performance to a 220V grinder.

Disadvantages

  • Lower power (in some models).
  • Limited battery autonomy.
  • Possible difficulty in finding replacement batteries in the local market.
  • Price.

The truth is that this is a technology that is gaining traction, to the point that many major workshops are transitioning to cordless tools because it has been proven that they help increase productivity.



Some Considerations Before Buying

Pay close attention to the battery specifications. It should be of the Lithium-Ion (Li-Ion) or Lithium Polymer (Li-Po) type. Don’t let anyone sell you a cordless tool with the old Nickel batteries, as they have significant disadvantages in terms of charge, capacity, and lifespan.

Check the included accessories, as some come without a battery and/or charger.

Lithium-Ion Battery

Prices and Features

Below, we’ll look at some models and their approximate prices.

Gamma HG107

Gamma Cordless Grinder

This grinder is small, lightweight, and practical for low-demand uses.

  • Speed: 7,000 RPM
  • Battery: Lithium-Ion 12V 1,300mAh
  • Approximate price: $3,000

Bosch GWS 18 V-LI

Bosch Cordless Grinder

Excellent features for professional use.

  • Speed: 10,000 RPM
  • Battery: Lithium-Ion 18V 4,000mAh
  • Approximate price: $14,000
  • Variable speed selector
  • Constant speed during use
  • Robust case
  • Electronic motor protection

Dewalt DCG412M2

Dewalt Cordless Grinder

Good features for professional use.

  • Speed: 7,000 RPM
  • Battery: Lithium-Ion 18V 4,000mAh
  • Approximate price: $11,000
  • Brushless motor, maintenance-free
  • Carrying bag




Makita BGA452Z

Makita Cordless Grinder

Good features for professional use.

  • Speed: 8,500 RPM
  • Battery: Lithium-Ion 18V
  • Approximate price: $5,500 without battery or charger
  • Constant speed during use

There are more robust models, but they are difficult to find in our area.

How to Extend Battery Life

Makita 18V Li-Ion Pack

Given the high cost of battery packs for cordless tools, it’s advisable to take some precautions when charging the batteries. Here are some "tips" for best practices to extend the lifespan of your batteries. In this case, we’re referring to Lithium-Ion batteries, also known as li-ion or Lithium-ion.

The First Charge

The myth that the first charge must be 8 hours is false. A new battery should be charged until the charger indicates 100% capacity, and that’s it. This process usually takes no more than 30 minutes.

Have 2 Battery Packs

It’s advisable to have 2 battery packs. If possible, when planning your tool purchase, it would be very convenient to buy an additional battery. This will benefit you while working, as if you deplete one pack, you can switch it out and continue working without waiting for a recharge.

Don’t Fully Deplete the Battery

This is where having multiple packs comes in handy to extend battery life by maintaining a minimum charge level.

The "issue" is that these li-ion batteries have a certain number of charge and discharge "cycles" before their lifespan ends. Let’s assume an average of 1,000 cycles, considering that each cycle is counted when the charge is consumed below 30%. So, if we’re careful to recharge the pack when it’s at half capacity, we’ll save some cycles.

In summary: Don’t wait for the battery to run out. Rotate between the charger and the grinder when the pack in use indicates approximately 50% capacity.

Store the Battery Charged

It’s better to store batteries fully charged. When you finish working, leave the batteries charging until they reach 100% capacity, especially if you won’t be using the grinder for a while. This is good for the batteries and also ensures you have a full charge the next time you need to use it.

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