Sustainability Analysis of Grinding with Power Tools

Grinding with power tools includes precision applications, such as polishing and engraving, but also high-performance applications such as cut-off grinding and deburring in foundries or construction. There is a growing demand for power tools in both industrial and consumer markets, but there is little literature on the sustainability of grinding with power tool available. Therefore, this paper summarizes the input-output-streams of manual grinding and reviews sustainability aspects, in particular the energy source of abrasive power tools, layout of grinding tools, safety, and health. A survey on angle grinders showed how companies advertise in particular social and economic features, but not environmental features. The discussion demonstrates that much work needs to be done on the sustainability of grinding with power tools.