A bench grinder is a benchtop machine that uses abrasive wheels to grind materials. It is commonly used to sharpen cutting tools and roughly shape metal prior to welding or fitting. Depending on the grinding wheel, it can be used for tasks like sharpening drills, chisels, and gouges. The grinding wheels can be interchanged with wire brush or buffing wheels to clean, polish, or deburr workpieces. Bench grinders are standard equipment in metal fabrication and machine shops.