Scanning for Ideas: Air-powered grinder boasts high power-to-weight ratio

The VT22 Turbine Grinder makes life easier for workers by cutting deeper and removing more material with less effort, according to its manufacturer, Ingersoll Rand with North American HQ in Davidson, N.C. Its 3-hp axial-turbine air motor and 4.6-lb weight reportedly give it the highest power-to-weight ratio of any 5-in. (125-mm) air-angle grinder on the market. And the small spindle offset (0.89 in.) lets it cut up to 1.6-in. deep.

The 5-in. wheel spins at up to 12,000 rpm, with a governor to maintain speed under load. Air consumption under load is about 84 cfm, and it generates 86.4 dB(A) of noise. The tool will operate in temperatures from 32 to 120°F.

For safety and comfort, the 5-in. safety guard has 10 different position settings, each 15° apart. The thumb-operated spindle lock lets operators change abrasive wheels quickly and easily. There’s also an optional top-mounted handle for jobs where lateral space is limited.

© 2012 Penton Media, Inc.