Die grinders + Cut Off Wheels

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I'm a welding student and I'm about to start doing a lot of pipe from now until the end of next semester. I got a Blue Point die grinder (1/4", 22,000 RPM) that has this little sticker above the warning label that reads "Do not use cut off wheels." Is this because the tool doesn't have a guard, or is there another reason I'm looking over? I've read using cut off wheels on cheapo die grinders can wear the tool out quickly. This thing is anything but cheap. If I make sure I'm using quality wheels rated for at least 22k I should be alright, right? Also, what diameter should I go with? Minimum thickness?Thanks for the help
Reply:I run 3" cutoff wheels on my IR inline and 90degree mini grinders all the time. They don't have the balls an electric pencil grinder, or dedicated air cutoff machine has, but they do the job in tight spaces. Just be careful, wear your PPE, and don't be stupid when cutting with a wheel going 10,000 rpm or more with no guard.Disclaimer; "I am just an a$$hole welder, don't take it personally ."
Reply:Thanks TozziWelding. I wont really be doing a lot of "cutting" per say with it. Mostly just feathering stops, cutting/feathering tacks, grinding out porosity or F ups. So, I'm fine with a little less balls. I always at least flip my hood down when grinding, I've got enough scars on my face as is and I really like both of my eyes. My biggest concerns are damaging my new investment with improper use, or someone around me with an exploding wheel.
Reply:i run 4" on mine at the shop with no guards on it just be careful when you cut into flesh all you will see is powdered flesh fly instead of sparks. rpm is fast so you dont feel the cut .Lincoln Power Arc 4000 Thermal Arc Fabricator 252 iThermal arc 186Thermal Arc 26 tigTweeko 200 amp spool gunHobart AirForce 400WP-17V-12R
Reply:Originally Posted by HertzI'm a welding student and I'm about to start doing a lot of pipe from now until the end of next semester. I got a Blue Point die grinder (1/4", 22,000 RPM) that has this little sticker above the warning label that reads "Do not use cut off wheels." Is this because the tool doesn't have a guard, or is there another reason I'm looking over? I've read using cut off wheels on cheapo die grinders can wear the tool out quickly. This thing is anything but cheap. If I make sure I'm using quality wheels rated for at least 22k I should be alright, right? Also, what diameter should I go with? Minimum thickness?Thanks for the help
Reply:a big assumption here is the face shield will stop flying debris spinning at 20k rpm.  i may have missed it but be sure you have the guard,  and i will admit i have lost the guard on one of mine.timJust some stuff in my shop.
Reply:make sure the mandrel is all the way into the collet. any excess stickout adds to potential problems.
Reply:Why won't a regular angle grinder work?
Reply:Just buy the right tool.  Save your expensive blue point for other uses.$60http://www.northerntool.com/shop/too...2058_200422058Dynasty200DX w/coolmate1MM210MM VintageESAB miniarc161ltsLincoln AC225Victor O/A, Smith AW1ACutmaster 81IR 2475N7.5FPRage3Jancy USA1019" SBAEAD-200LE
Reply:I just figured the sticker was there because there is no guard. The tool room hands out IR die grinders just like mine with cut off wheels on every day. I suppose I'll probably just leave the cutting to the 4 1/2" grinder.