Bosch Professional GWS 18-125 V-LI Cordless Angle Grinder

1. Introduction

This manual provides essential information for the safe and effective operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your Bosch Professional GWS 18-125 V-LI Cordless Angle Grinder. Please read all instructions carefully before using the tool to ensure personal safety and optimal performance.

Figure 1: Bosch Professional GWS 18-125 V-LI Cordless Angle Grinder. This image shows the complete angle grinder unit, highlighting its compact design and ergonomic grip.

The GWS 18-125 V-LI is an 18-volt angle grinder designed for high material removal rates and cutting performance. It features advanced battery and motor protection systems for extended tool and battery life.

2. Safety Instructions

Always observe basic safety precautions to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, and serious personal injury. Keep this instruction manual for future reference.

General Power Tool Safety Warnings

• Work Area Safety: Keep the work area clean and well-lit. Cluttered or dark areas invite accidents. Do not operate power tools in explosive atmospheres, such as in the presence of flammable liquids, gases, or dust.
• Electrical Safety: Avoid body contact with earthed or grounded surfaces (e.g., pipes, radiators, ranges, refrigerators). There is an increased risk of electric shock if your body is earthed or grounded.
• Personal Safety: Always wear eye protection. Use dust mask, non-skid safety shoes, hard hat, or hearing protection for appropriate conditions. Stay alert, watch what you are doing, and use common sense when operating a power tool.
• Tool Use and Care: Do not force the power tool. Use the correct power tool for your application. Do not use the power tool if the switch does not turn it on and off. Disconnect the plug from the power source and/or the battery pack from the power tool before making any adjustments, changing accessories, or storing power tools.
• Battery Tool Use and Care: Recharge only with the charger specified by the manufacturer. Use power tools only with specifically designated battery packs.

Angle Grinder Specific Safety Warnings

• This power tool is intended to function as a grinder, sander, wire brush, or cut-off tool. Read all safety warnings, instructions, illustrations, and specifications provided with this power tool.
• Always use the correct type of disc for the material being worked on.
• Ensure the guard is correctly positioned and secure before operation.
• Hold the tool firmly with both hands during operation.
• Be aware of sparks and flying debris during cutting and grinding operations.

3. Product Features

The Bosch Professional GWS 18-125 V-LI Cordless Angle Grinder is engineered for efficiency and durability in demanding professional environments.

• High Performance: Delivers the highest material removal rate and cutting performance in its class per battery charge.
• Battery Charge Indicator: A practical indicator continuously displays the remaining battery power, allowing for better work planning.
• Disc Compatibility: Designed for cutting and grinding discs up to 125 mm in diameter.
• Compact and Lightweight: Its compact design and light weight (approximately 4 kg / 8.82 lbs) make it ideal for working in tight spaces or overhead applications.
• 18V Professional System: Part of the Bosch Professional 18V system, ensuring battery compatibility across new and existing tools in the same voltage class.
• Durable Motor: Equipped with a powerful and highly flexible four-pole motor for a long service life.
• CoolPack Technology: CoolPack batteries (sold separately) ensure optimal heat dissipation, extending battery lifespan by up to 100%.
• Electronic Cell Protection (ECP): Bosch ECP protects the battery from overload, overheating, and deep discharge.
• Electronic Motor Protection (EMP): Bosch EMP safeguards the motor from overload, contributing to a long tool lifespan.
• Versatile Design: Features a gear head that can be rotated 90 degrees and a handle that can be used on either the left or right side for enhanced versatility.

4. Setup

Proper setup ensures safe and efficient operation of your angle grinder.

4.1 Unpacking and Inspection

• Carefully remove all components from the packaging.
• Inspect the tool for any signs of damage that may have occurred during shipping. Do not operate a damaged tool.
• Verify that all included items (GWS 18-125 V-LI, L-BOXX) are present. Batteries and charger are sold separately.

4.2 Attaching the Auxiliary Handle

The auxiliary handle can be screwed into either the left or right side of the gear head, depending on your preference and the application. Ensure it is tightened securely.

4.3 Mounting the Protective Guard

The protective guard must always be used for grinding and cutting operations. Position the guard so that it protects your hand from sparks and debris. Tighten the guard securely using the provided mechanism.

4.4 Installing/Changing Grinding/Cutting Discs

1. Ensure the battery pack is removed from the tool.
2. Press the spindle lock button to secure the spindle.
3. Use the provided spanner wrench to loosen the clamping nut counter-clockwise.
4. Remove the clamping nut and the old disc (if applicable).
5. Place the new grinding or cutting disc onto the flange, ensuring it is centered.
6. Screw the clamping nut back on and tighten it clockwise using the spanner wrench while holding the spindle lock button.

Figure 2: Bosch Professional GWS 18-125 V-LI with battery inserted. This image illustrates the tool ready for operation with a battery pack attached.

4.5 Inserting/Removing the Battery Pack

• Inserting: Slide the charged battery pack into the base of the tool until it clicks into place.
• Removing: Press the battery release button and pull the battery pack out.

5. Operating

Follow these guidelines for safe and effective operation of your angle grinder.

5.1 Switching On/Off

• Switching On: For continuous operation, push the ON/OFF switch forward until it engages.
• Switching Off: For continuous operation, press the rear part of the ON/OFF switch. For momentary operation, release the ON/OFF switch.

5.2 Grinding and Cutting Techniques

• General Grinding: Apply moderate pressure. Move the tool evenly over the workpiece.
• Cutting: Use a cutting disc and the appropriate guard. Cut in a straight line, applying steady, light pressure. Avoid tilting the disc excessively, which can cause binding or kickback.

Figure 3: Angle grinder in use cutting a metal pipe. This image demonstrates the tool's capability for precise cutting operations on metal workpieces.

Figure 4: Angle grinder in use grinding rebar. This image shows the tool being used for grinding applications, generating sparks as it removes material from rebar.

5.3 Battery Charge Level Indicator

The battery charge level indicator on the battery pack (if equipped) or tool will show the remaining capacity. Recharge the battery when the indicator shows low charge to avoid interruptions and maintain performance.

6. Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and safe operation of your tool.

6.1 Cleaning

• Always remove the battery pack before cleaning.
• Keep the ventilation slots of the power tool clean to prevent overheating.
• Regularly clean the tool housing with a soft, damp cloth. Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.

6.2 Storage

• Store the tool and accessories in a dry, secure place, out of reach of children.
• Remove the battery pack from the tool before storage, especially for long periods.

6.3 Battery Care

• Store batteries in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• Do not expose batteries to water or moisture.
• Recharge batteries using only Bosch Professional chargers.

7. Troubleshooting

This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your angle grinder.

8. Specifications

Technical data for the Bosch Professional GWS 18-125 V-LI Cordless Angle Grinder.

Figure 5: Dimensional drawing of the Bosch Professional GWS 18-125 V-LI. This diagram shows the length (320 mm) and height (102 mm) of the angle grinder.

9. Warranty and Support

Bosch Professional tools are manufactured to the highest quality standards. For warranty information, service, or technical support, please refer to the official Bosch Professional website or contact your local authorized Bosch service center. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.

Online resources and contact information can typically be found at www.bosch-professional.com.