Bosch Professional GWS 18V-15 S Manual
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Safety Instructions
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Read all safety warnings and all instructions. Failure to follow the warnings and instructions may result in electric shock, fire and/or serious injury.
Save all warnings and instructions for future reference.
The term "power tool" in the warnings refers to your mains operated (corded) power tool or battery-operated (cordless) power tool.
Work area safety
- Keep 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. Power tools create sparks which may ignite the dust or fumes.
- Keep children and bystanders away while operating a power tool. Distractions can cause you to lose control.
Electrical safety
- Power tool plugs must match the outlet. Never modify the plug in any way. Do not use any adapter plugs with earthed (grounded) power tools. Unmodified plugs and matching outlets will reduce risk of electric shock.
- Avoid body contact with earthed or grounded surfaces, such as pipes, radiators, ranges and refrigerators. There is an increased risk of electric shock if your body is earthed or grounded.
- Do not expose power tools to rain or wet conditions. Water entering a power tool will increase the risk of electric shock.
- Do not abuse the cord. Never use the cord for carrying, pulling or unplugging the power tool. Keep cord away from heat, oil, sharp edges or moving parts. Damaged or entangled cords increase the risk of electric shock.
- When operating a power tool outdoors, use an extension cord suitable for outdoor use. Use of a cord suitable for outdoor use reduces the risk of electric shock..
- If operating a power tool in a damp location is unavoidable, use a residual current device (RCD) protected supply. Use of an RCD reduces the risk of electric shock.
Personal safety
- Stay alert, watch what you are doing and use common sense when operating a power tool. Do not use a power tool while you are tired or under the influence of drugs, alcohol or medication. A moment of inattention while operating power tools may result in serious personal injury.
- Use personal protective equipment. Always wear eye protection. Protective equipment such as dust mask, non-skid safety shoes, hard hat, or hearing protection used for appropriate conditions will reduce personal injuries.
- Prevent unintentional starting. Ensure the switch is in the off-position before connecting to power source and/or battery pack, picking up or carrying the tool. Carrying power tools with your finger on the switch or energising power tools that have the switch on invites accidents.
- Remove any adjusting key or wrench before turning the power tool on. A wrench or a key left attached to a rotating part of the power tool may result in personal injury.
- Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and balance at all times. This enables better control of the power tool in unexpected situations.
- Dress properly. Do not wear loose clothing or jewellery. Keep your hair, clothing and gloves away from moving parts. Loose clothes, jewellery or long hair can be caught in moving parts.
- If devices are provided for the connection of dust extraction and collection facilities, ensure these are connected and properly used. Use of dust collection can reduce dust-related hazards.
Power tool use and care
- Do not force the power tool. Use the correct power tool for your application. The correct power tool will do the job better and safer at the rate for which it was designed.
- Do not use the power tool if the switch does not turn it on and off. Any power tool that cannot be controlled with the switch is dangerous and must be repaired.
- 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. Such preventive safety measures reduce the risk of starting the power tool accidentally.
- Store idle power tools out of the reach of children and do not allow persons unfamiliar with the power tool or these instructions to operate the power tool. Power tools are dangerous in the hands of untrained users.
- Maintain power tools. Check for misalignment or binding of moving parts, breakage of parts and any other condition that may affect the power tool's operation. If damaged, have the power tool repaired before use. Many accidents are caused by poorly maintained power tools.
- Keep cutting tools sharp and clean. Properly maintained cutting tools with sharp cutting edges are less likely to bind and are easier to control.
- Use the power tool, accessories and tool bits etc. in accordance with these instructions, taking into account the working conditions and the work to be performed. Use of the power tool for operations different from those intended could result in a hazardous situation.
Battery tool use and care
- Recharge only with the charger specified by the manufacturer. A charger that is suitable for one type of battery pack may create a risk of fire when used with another battery pack.
- Use power tools only with specifically designated battery packs. Use of any other battery packs may create a risk of injury and fire.
- When battery pack is not in use, keep it away from other metal objects, like paper clips, coins, keys, nails, screws or other small metal objects, that can make a connection from one terminal to another. Shorting the battery terminals together may cause burns or a fire.
- Under abusive conditions, liquid may be ejected from the battery; avoid contact. If contact accidentally occurs, flush with water. If liquid contacts eyes, additionally seek medical help. Liquid ejected from the battery may cause irritation or burns.
Service
- Have your power tool serviced by a qualified repair person using only identical replacement parts. This will ensure that the safety of the power tool is maintained.
Safety Warnings for Angle Grinder
Safety Warnings common for Grinding, Sanding, Wire Brushing or Abrasive Cutting Off operations
- 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. Failure to follow all instructions listed below may result in electric shock, fire and/or serious injury.
- Operations such as polishing are not recommended to be performed with this power tool. Operations for which the power tool was not designed may create a hazard and cause personal injury.
- Do not use accessories which are not specifically designed and recommended by the tool manufacturer. Just because the accessory can be attached to your power tool, it does not assure safe operation.
- The rated speed of the accessory must be at least equal to the maximum speed marked on the power tool. Accessories running faster than their rated speed can break and fly apart.
- The outside diameter and the thickness of your accessory must be within the capacity rating of your power tool. Incorrectly sized accessories cannot be adequately guarded or controlled.
- Threaded mounting of accessories must match the grinder spindle thread. For accessories mounted by flanges, the arbour hole of the accessory must fit the locating diameter of the flange. Accessories that do not match the mounting hardware of the power tool will run out of balance, vibrate excessively and may cause loss of control.
- Do not use a damaged accessory. Before each use inspect the accessory such as abrasive wheels for chips and cracks, backing pad for cracks, tear or excess wear, wire brush for loose or cracked wires. If power tool or accessory is dropped, inspect for damage or install an undamaged accessory. After inspecting and installing an accessory, position yourself and bystanders away from the plane of the rotating accessory and run the power tool at maximum no load speed for one minute. Damaged accessories will normally break apart during this test time.
- Wear personal protective equipment. Depending on application, use face shield, safety goggles or safety glasses. As appropriate, wear dust mask, hearing protectors, gloves and workshop apron capable of stopping small abrasive or workpiece fragments. The eye protection must be capable of stopping flying debris generated by various operations. The dust mask or respirator must be capable of filtrating particles generated by your operation. Prolonged exposure to high intensity noise may cause hearing loss.
- Keep bystanders a safe distance away from work area. Anyone entering the work area must wear personal protective equipment. Fragments of workpiece or of a broken accessory may fly away and cause injury beyond immediate area of operation.
- Hold the power tool by insulated gripping surfaces only, when performing an operation where the cutting accessory may contact hidden wiring. Contact with a "live" wire will also make exposed metal parts of the power tool "live" and could give the operator an electric shock.
- Never lay the power tool down until the accessory has come to a complete stop. The spinning accessory may grab the surface and pull the power tool out of your control.
- Do not run the power tool while carrying it at your side. Accidental contact with the spinning accessory could snag your clothing, pulling the accessory into your body.
- Regularly clean the power tool's air vents. The motor's fan will draw the dust inside the housing and excessive accumulation of powdered metal may cause electrical hazards.
- Do not operate the power tool near flammable materials. Sparks could ignite these materials.
- Do not use accessories that require liquid coolants. Using water or other liquid coolants may result in electrocution or shock.
Kickback and Related Warnings
Kickback is a sudden reaction to a pinched or snagged rotating wheel, backing pad, brush or any other accessory. Pinching or snagging causes rapid stalling of the rotating accessory which in turn causes the uncontrolled power tool to be forced in the direction opposite of the accessory's rotation at the point of the binding.
For example, if an abrasive wheel is snagged or pinched by the workpiece, the edge of the wheel that is entering into the pinch point can dig into the surface of the material causing the wheel to climb out or kick out. The wheel may either jump toward or away from the operator, depending on direction of the wheel's movement at the point of pinching. Abrasive wheels may also break under these conditions. Kickback is the result of power tool misuse and/or incorrect operating procedures or conditions and can be avoided by taking proper precautions as given below.
- Maintain a firm grip on the power tool and position your body and arm to allow you to resist kickback forces. Always use auxiliary handle, if provided, for maximum control over kickback or torque reaction during start-up. The operator can control torque reactions or kickback forces, if proper precautions are taken.
- Never place your hand near the rotating accessory. Accessory may kickback over your hand.
- Do not position your body in the area where power tool will move if kickback occurs. Kickback will propel the tool in direction opposite to the wheel's movement at the point of snagging.
- Use special care when working corners, sharp edges etc. Avoid bouncing and snagging the accessory. Corners, sharp edges or bouncing have a tendency to snag the rotating accessory and cause loss of control or kickback.
- Do not attach a saw chain woodcarving blade or toothed saw blade. Such blades create frequent kickback and loss of control.
Safety Warnings specific for Grinding and Abrasive Cutting-Off operations
- Use only wheel types that are recommended for your power tool and the specific guard designed for the selected wheel. Wheels for which the power tool was not designed cannot be adequately guarded and are unsafe.
- The grinding surface of centre depressed wheels must be mounted below the plane of the guard lip. An improperly mounted wheel that projects through the plane of the guard lip cannot be adequately protected.
- The guard must be securely attached to the power tool and positioned for maximum safety, so the least amount of wheel is exposed towards the operator. The guard helps to protect operator from broken wheel fragments, accidental contact with wheel and sparks that could ignite clothing.
- Wheels must be used only for recommended applications. For example: do not grind with the side of cutoff wheel. Abrasive cut-off wheels are intended for peripheral grinding, side forces applied to these wheels may cause them to shatter.
- Always use undamaged wheel flanges that are of correct size and shape for your selected wheel. Proper wheel flanges support the wheel thus reducing the possibility of wheel breakage. Flanges for cut-off wheels may be different from grinding wheel flanges.
- Do not use worn down wheels from larger power tools. Wheel intended for larger power tool is not suitable for the higher speed of a smaller tool and may burst.
Additional Safety Warnings specific for Abrasive Cutting Off operations
- Do not "jam" the cut-off wheel or apply excessive pressure. Do not attempt to make an excessive depth of cut. Overstressing the wheel increases the loading and susceptibility to twisting or binding of the wheel in the cut and the possibility of kickback or wheel breakage.
- Do not position your body in line with and behind the rotating wheel. When the wheel, at the point of operation, is moving away from your body, the possible kickback may propel the spinning wheel and the power tool directly at you.
- When wheel is binding or when interrupting a cut for any reason, switch off the power tool and hold the power tool motionless until the wheel comes to a complete stop. Never attempt to remove the cut-off wheel from the cut while the wheel is in motion otherwise kickback may occur. Investigate and take corrective action to eliminate the cause of wheel binding.
- Do not restart the cutting operation in the workpiece. Let the wheel reach full speed and carefully re-enter the cut. The wheel may bind, walk up or kickback if the power tool is restarted in the workpiece.
- Support panels or any oversized workpiece to minimize the risk of wheel pinching and kickback. Large workpieces tend to sag under their own weight. Supports must be placed under the workpiece near the line of cut and near the edge of the workpiece on both sides of the wheel.
- Use extra caution when making a "pocket cut" into existing walls or other blind areas. The protruding wheel may cut gas or water pipes, electrical wiring or objects that can cause kickback.
Safety Warnings specific for Sanding operations
- Do not use excessively oversized sanding disc paper. Follow manufacturers recommendations, when selecting sanding paper. Larger sanding paper extending beyond the sanding pad presents a laceration hazard and may cause snagging, tearing of the disc, or kickback.
Safety Warnings specific for Wire Brushing operations
- Be aware that wire bristles are thrown by the brush even during ordinary operation. Do not overstress the wires by applying excessive load to the brush The wire bristles can easily penetrate light clothing and/or skin.
- If the use of a guard is recommended for wire brushing, do not allow any interference of the wire wheel or brush with the guard. Wire wheel or brush may expand in diameter due to work load and centrifugal forces.
Additional safety information
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Wear safety goggles.
- Use suitable detectors to determine if there are hidden supply lines or contact the local utility company for assistance. Contact with electric cables can cause fire and electric shock. Damaging gas lines can lead to explosion. Breaking water pipes causes property damage.
- Do not touch grinding and cutting discs until they have cooled down. The discs can become very hot while working.
- Release the On/Off switch and set it to the Off position when the power supply is interrupted, e.g. when the battery pack is removed. This prevents uncontrolled restarting.
- Secure the workpiece. A workpiece clamped with clamping devices or in a vice is held more secure than by hand.
- In case of damage and improper use of the battery, vapours may be emitted. The battery can set alight or explode. Ensure the area is well ventilated and seek medical attention should you experience any adverse effects. The vapours may irritate the respiratory system.
- Do not open the battery. There is a risk of short-circuiting.
- The battery can be damaged by pointed objects such as nails or screwdrivers or by force applied externally. An internal short circuit may occur, causing the battery to burn, smoke, explode or overheat.
- Only use the battery in the manufacturer's products. This is the only way in which you can protect the battery against dangerous overload.
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Protect the battery against heat, e.g. against continuous intense sunlight, fire, dirt, water and moisture. There is a risk of explosion and short-circuiting.
Product Description and Specifications
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Read all the safety and general instructions. Failure to observe the safety and general instructions may result in electric shock, fire and/or serious injury.
Please observe the illustrations at the beginning of this operating manual.
Intended use
The power tool is intended for cutting, roughing and brushing metal and stone materials, as well as making holes in stone materials using diamond core cutters, without the use of water.
A separate protective guard for cutting must be used when cutting with bonded abrasives.
Sufficient dust extraction must be provided when cutting stone.
With approved abrasive tools, the power tool can be used for sanding with sanding discs.
The power tool must not be used to grind concrete.
Product Features
![Bosch - Professional GWS 18V-15 S - Product Features Product Features]()
- Unlocking lever for protective guard
- Direction of rotation arrow on housing
- Spindle lock button
- User interface
- On/off switch
- Rechargeable batterya)
- Battery release buttona)
- Dust filter (2x)
- Auxiliary handle (insulated gripping surface)
- Protective guard for grinding (M 14)
- Mounting flange with O‑ring
- Grinding disc
- Clamping nut
- Carbide grinding heada)
- Protective guard for cuttinga)
- Cutting disca)
- Quick-clamping nut with bar (M 14)a)
- Handle (insulated gripping surface)
- Grinding spindle
- Hand guarda)
- Rubber sanding pada)
- Sanding sheeta)
- Round nuta)
- Cup brusha)
- Diamond annular cuttera)
- Extraction guard for cutting (with a cutting guide)a)
- Diamond cutting disca)
- Two-pin spanner for clamping nuta)
- Flap disca)
- Power tool status indicator (user interface)
- Indicator for low state of charge of the battery (user interface)
- Indicator for cleaning the dust filter (user interface)
- Button for increasing the speed (user interface)
- Speed setting/mode indicator (user interface)
- Button for reducing the speed (user interface)
- Temperature indicator (user interface)
- Kickback shutdown indicator (user interface)
a) This accessory is not part of the standard scope of delivery.
Technical Data
Angle Grinder | | GWS 18V-15 S | GWS 18V-15 S | GWS 18V-15 S |
Article number | | 3 601 JM6 0.. | 3 601 JM6 0.. | 3 601 JM6 2.. |
Rated voltage | V= | 18 | 18 | 18 |
Rated speedA) | min -1 | 11000 | 11000 | 10000 |
Max. grinding disc diameter | mm | 100 | 125 | 150 |
Grinding spindle thread | | M 10 | M 14 | M 14 |
Max. thread length of grinding spindle | mm | 10 | 22 | 22 |
KickBack Control | | ● | ● | ● |
Restart protection | | ● | ● | ● |
Run-out brake | | ● | ● | ● |
Drop Control | | ● | ● | ● |
Speed pre-selection | | ● | ● | ● |
WeightB) | kg | 2.2–3.5 | 2.4–3.6 | 2.4–3.8 |
Recommended ambient temperature during charging | °C | 0 to +35 | 0 to +35 | 0 to +35 |
Permitted ambient temperature during operationC) and during storage | °C | –20 to +50 | –20 to +50 | –20 to +50 |
Compatible rechargeable batteries | | GBA 18V... ProCORE18V... | GBA 18V... ProCORE18V... | GBA 18V... ProCORE18V... |
Recommended rechargeable batteries for maximum performance | | ProCORE18V... ≥ 5.5 Ah | ProCORE18V... ≥ 5.5 Ah | ProCORE18V... ≥ 5.5 Ah |
Recommended battery chargers | | GAL 18... GAX 18... GAL 36... | GAL 18... GAX 18... GAL 36... | GAL 18... GAX 18... GAL 36... |
A) Measured at 20–25°C with rechargeable batter yProCORE18V 12.0Ah
B) Depends on rechargeable battery (6), protective guard ((15), (10)) and auxiliary handle (9) in use
C) Limited performance at temperatures < 0°C
Values can vary depending on the product, scope of application and environmental conditions.
To find out more, visit www.bosch-professional.com/wac.
KickBack Control
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If there is a sudden kickback in the power tool, e.g. jamming in a separating cut, the power supply to the motor will be interrupted electronically. The kickback control indicator(37) then lights up. When kickback control is activated, the status indicator (30) flashes red. To restart the tool, set the on/off switch (5) to the off position and then switch the power tool on again.
Restart protection
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The restart protection feature prevents the power tool from uncontrolled starting after the power supply to it has been interrupted.
Speed preselection
The factory settings include 6 preset speeds.
To restart the tool, set the on/off switch (5) to the off position and then switch the power tool on again.
Run-out brake
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The power tool is fitted with an electronic run-out brake. When the power tool is switched off or the power supply is interrupted, the abrasive tool is brought to a complete stop within a few seconds.
Drop control
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The integrated impact shutdown switches the power tool off as soon as it hits the floor. To restart the tool, set the on/off switch (5) to the "off" position and then switch the power tool on again.
Level Speed preselection | GWS 18V-15 S (100 mm / 125 mm) [min-1] | GWS 18V-15 S (150 mm) [min-1] |
1 | 3400 | 2600 |
2 | 4600 | 3600 |
3 | 6000 | 4600 |
4 | 7200 | 5400 |
5 | 8600 | 6400 |
6 | 11000 | 10000 |
The specified speed setting values depend on the rechargeable battery in use, the battery's state of charge and the tool's operating temperature.
You can select the required speed using the buttons for adjusting the speed, (33) and (35), even during operation. The figures in the table below are the recommended values for the factory settings with 6 preset speeds.
Material | Application | Application tool | Speed preselection level | GWS 18V-15 S (100 mm / 125 mm) [min–1] | GWS 18V-15 S (150 mm) [min–1] |
Metal | Removing paint | Sanding sheet | 1 | 3400 | 2600 |
Metal | Brushing, removing rust | Cup brush, abrasive disc | 1 | 3400 | 2600 |
Stainless steel | Grinding | Grinding disc/fibre disc | 3 | 6000 | 4600 |
Metal | Rough grinding | Grinding disc | 6 | 11000 | 10000 |
Metal | Cutting | Cutting disc | 6 | 11000 | 10000 |
Stone | Cutting | Diamond cutting disc | 6 | 11000 | 10000 |
- The rated speed of the accessory must be at least equal to the maximum speed marked on the power tool. Accessories running faster than their rated speed can break and fly apart.
Rechargeable battery
Bosch sells some cordless power tools without a rechargeable battery. You can tell whether a rechargeable battery is included with the power tool by looking at the packaging.
Charging the battery
- Use only the chargers listed in the technical data. Only these chargers are matched to the lithium-ion battery of your power tool.
Note: Lithium-ion rechargeable batteries are supplied partially charged according to international transport regulations. To ensure full rechargeable battery capacity, fully charge the rechargeable battery before using your tool for the first time.
Inserting the Battery
Push the charged battery into the battery holder until it clicks into place.
Removing the Battery
To remove the rechargeable battery, press the battery release button and pull the battery out. Do not use force to do this.
The rechargeable battery has two locking levels to prevent the battery from falling out if the battery release button is pressed unintentionally. The rechargeable battery is held in place by a spring when fitted in the power tool.
Battery charge indicator
Note: Not all battery types have a battery charge indicator.
The green LEDs on the battery charge indicator indicate the state of charge of the battery. For safety reasons, it is only possible to check the state of charge when the power tool is not in operation.
Press the button for the battery charge indicator
or
to show the state of charge. This is also possible when the battery is removed.
If no LED lights up after pressing the button for the battery charge indicator, then the battery is defective and must be replaced.
The state of charge of the battery is also displayed on the user interface (see "Status indications").
Battery model GBA 18V...
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LED | Capacity |
3× continuous green light | 60–100% |
2× continuous green light | 30–60% |
1× continuous green light | 5–30% |
1× flashing green light | 0–5% |
Battery model ProCORE18V...
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LED | Capacity |
5 × continuous green light | 80–100% |
4 × continuous green light | 60–80% |
3 × continuous green light | 40–60% |
2 × continuous green light | 20–40% |
1 × continuous green light | 5–20% |
1 × flashing green light | 0–5% |
Recommendations for Optimal Handling of the Battery
Protect the battery against moisture and water.
Only store the battery within a temperature range of −20 to 50°C. Do not leave the battery in your car in the summer, for example.
Occasionally clean the ventilation slots on the battery using a soft brush that is clean and dry.
A significantly reduced operating time after charging indicates that the battery has deteriorated and must be replaced. Follow the instructions on correct disposal.
Fitting
Fitting Protective Equipment
- Before carrying out any work on the power tool (e.g. maintenance, tool change etc.), remove the battery from the power tool. There is risk of injury from unintentionally pressing the on/off switch.
Note: If the grinding disc breaks during operation or the holding fixtures on the protective guard/power tool become damaged, the power tool must be sent to the after-sales service immediately; see the "After-Sales Service and Application Service" section for addresses.
Protective guard for grinding
Place the protective guard (10) onto the holder on the power tool until the coding cams of the protective guard are aligned with the holder. When doing so, press and hold the unlocking lever (1).
Press the protective guard (10) onto the spindle collar until the shoulder of the protective guard is sitting on the flange of the power tool and rotate the protective guard until it audibly clicks into place.
Adjust the position of the protective guard (10) to meet the requirements of the operation. To do this, push the unlocking lever (1) upward and rotate the protective guard (10) into the required position.
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- Always position the protective guard (10) such that the two cams on the unlocking lever (1) engage in the corresponding openings on the protective guard (10).
- Adjust the protective guard (10) such that sparking in the direction of the operator is prevented.
- The protective guard (10) must only be able to be rotated in the direction of the accessory while the unlocking lever (1) is actuated. Otherwise, the power tool must not be used any more under any circumstances and must be sent to the after-sales service.
Note: The coding cams on the protective guard (10) ensure that only a protective guard that is suitable for the power tool can be fitted.
Protective guard for cutting
- Always use the protective guard for cutting (15) when cutting with bonded abrasives.
- Provide sufficient dust extraction when cutting stone.
The protective guard for cutting (15) is fitted in the same way as the protective guard for grinding (10).
Side handle
- Do not operate your power tool without the side handle (9).
Screw the side handle (9) on the left or right of the machine head depending on how your are working.
Low-vibration auxiliary handle
The low-vibration auxiliary handle reduces vibration, enabling the tool to be used safely and more comfortably.
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- Do not make any alterations of any kind to the auxiliary handle.
Do not continue to use a damaged auxiliary handle.
Hand guard
- Always fit the hand guard (20) when working with the rubber sanding plate (21) or with the cup brush/disc brush/flap disc.
Attach the hand guard (20) to the side handle (9).
- Before carrying out any work on the power tool (e.g. maintenance, tool change etc.), remove the battery from the power tool. There is risk of injury from unintentionally pressing the on/off switch.
- Do not touch grinding and cutting discs until they have cooled down. The discs can become very hot while working.
Clean the grinding spindle (19) and all the parts to be fitted. Lock the grinding spindle with the spindle lock button (3) before clamping and releasing the abrasive tools.
- Do not press the spindle lock button while the grinding spindle is moving. The power tool may become damaged if you do this.
Grinding/cutting disc with a diameter of 125 mm/150 mm
Pay attention to the dimensions of the abrasive tools. The diameter of the hole must match that of the mounting flange. Do not use an adapter or reducer.
When using diamond cutting discs, ensure that the arrow indicating the direction of rotation on the diamond cutting disc matches the direction of rotation of the power tool (see the direction of rotation arrow on the machine head).
See the graphics for assembly instructions.
Use the quick-clamping nut (17) to secure the grinding/cutting disc without the need for additional tools.
Only use the quick-clamping nut (17) for grinding/cutting discs up to a maximum diameter of 125 mm.
- The quick-clamping nut (17) may be used only for grinding or cutting discs.
- Only use quick-clamping nuts (17) that are in good working order and not damaged.
- When screwing on, make sure that the printed side of the quick-clamping nut (17) is not facing the grinding disc.
- Always secure a grinding/cutting disc using only the quick-clamping nut (17) supplied.
Press the spindle lock button (3) to lock the grinding spindle. To tighten the quick-clamping nut (17), fold up the bar and turn the quick-clamping nut firmly clockwise. Then fold down the bar to secure the quick-clamping nut. It is not sufficient to tighten the disc along the edge.
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Quick-clamping nuts (17) that are properly secured and not damaged can be removed by hand. To do this, fold up the bar and turn the quick clamping nut firmly anticlockwise. If the quick-clamping nut is stuck, do not attempt to loosen it with a tool – always use a two-pin spanner.
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After fitting the mounting flange and the grinding/cutting disc, the free thread length of the grinding spindle must be at least 4 mm.
Ensure that the abrasive tool is firmly seated, so that it does not twist away from the spindle in the run-out of the power tool.
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Mounting flange for grinding spindle M 14: A plastic part (O-ring) is fitted around the centring collar in the mounting flange (11). If the O-ring is missing or damaged, the mounting flange (11) must be replaced before operation can resume.
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- After fitting the abrasive tool, check that the abrasive tool is fitted correctly and can turn freely before switching on the power tool. Make sure that the abrasive tool does not brush against the protective guard or other parts.
Grinding/Cutting Disc with Diameter 100 mm
The quick clamping nut with bar (17) is not recommended to be used with 100 mm cutting/grinding disc.
Pay attention to the dimensions of the abrasive tools. The diameter of the hole must match that of the hub flange. Do not use an adapter or reducer.
When using diamond cutting discs, ensure that the arrow indicating the direction of rotation on the diamond cutting disc matches the direction of rotation of the power tool (see the direction of rotation arrow on the machine head).
See the graphics for fitting instructions.
To fasten the grinding/cutting disc, screw on the clamping nut (13) and tighten with the two-pin spanner.
- After fitting the abrasive tool, check that the abrasive tool is fitted correctly and can turn freely before switching on the power tool. Make sure that the abrasive tool does not brush against the protective guard or other parts.
Flap disc
- Always fit the hand guard (20) when working with the flap disc.
Rubber Sanding Pad
- Always fit the hand guard (20) when working with the rubber sanding pad (21).
See the graphics for fitting instructions.
Slide the rubber sanding pad (21) onto the grinding spindle (19).
Press the sanding sheet (22) firmly onto the underside of the rubber sanding pad (21).
Screw on the round nut (23) and tighten with a two-pin spanner.
Cup brush/disc brush
- Always fit the hand guard (20) when working with the cup brush or disc brush.
See the graphics for fitting instructions.
The cup brush/disc brush must be screwed onto the grinding spindle until it rests firmly against the grinding spindle flange at the end of the grinding spindle thread. Tighten the cup brush/disc brush with an open-ended spanner.
Carbide Grinding Head
- A grinding head may be used only with a suitable protective guard.
You can use all the abrasive tools mentioned in these operating instructions.
The permissible speed [min-1] or the circumferential speed [m/s] of the abrasive tools used must at least match the values given in the table.
It is therefore important to observe the permissible rotational/circumferential speed on the label of the abrasive tool.
![Bosch - Professional GWS 18V-15 S - Fitting - Approved abrasive tools Fitting - Approved abrasive tools]()
Rotating the machine head
(see figure A)
![Bosch - Professional GWS 18V-15 S - Fitting - Rotating the machine head Fitting - Rotating the machine head]()
FIG.A
- Before carrying out any work on the power tool (e.g. maintenance, tool change etc.), remove the battery from the power tool. There is risk of injury from unintentionally pressing the on/off switch.
The machine head can be rotated in 90° increments. In this way, the on/off switch can be brought into a more favourable handling position for particular applications, e.g. for lefthanded tool users.
Completely unscrew the four screws (
). Rotate the machine head carefully, without removing it from the housing, into the new position (
). Screw in and retighten the four screws (
).
Dust from materials such as lead-containing coatings, some wood types, minerals and metal can be harmful to one's health. Touching or breathing-in the dust can cause allergic reactions and/or lead to respiratory infections of the user or bystanders.
Certain dust, such as oak or beech dust, is considered carcinogenic, especially in connection with wood-treatment additives (chromate, wood preservative). Materials containing asbestos may only be worked by specialists.
- Provide for good ventilation of the working place.
- It is recommended to wear a P2 filter-class respirator.
Observe the relevant regulations in your country for the materials to be worked.
- Avoid dust accumulation at the workplace. Dust can easily ignite.
Operation
- Do not load the power tool so heavily that it comes to a stop.
- Before carrying out any work on the power tool (e.g. maintenance, tool change etc.), remove the battery from the power tool. There is risk of injury from unintentionally pressing the on/off switch.
- Exercise caution when cutting slots in structural walls; see the "Information on structural design" section.
- Clamp the workpiece if it is not secure under its own weight.
- If the power tool has been subjected to a heavy load, continue to run it at no-load for several minutes to cool down the accessory.
- Do not use the power tool with a cut-off stand.
- Do not touch grinding and cutting discs until they have cooled down. The discs can become very hot while working.
Working Advice
Rough grinding
- Never use cutting discs for rough grinding.
The best rough grinding results are achieved with a set angle of 30° to 40°. Move the power tool back and forth with moderate pressure. This will ensure that the workpiece does not become too hot or discolour and that grooves are not formed.
Flap Disc
With the flap disc (accessory), curved surfaces and profiles can be worked. Flap discs have a considerably higher service life, lower noise levels and lower sanding temperatures than conventional sanding sheets.
Cutting metal
- Always use the protective guard for cutting (15) when cutting with bonded abrasives.
When carrying out abrasive cutting, use a moderate feed that is suited to the material being machined. Do not exert pressure on the cutting disc and do not tilt or swing the power tool.
Do not attempt to reduce the speed of a cutting disc coming to a stop by applying pressure from the side.
The power tool must always work in an up-grinding motion. Otherwise there is a risk that it will be pushed uncontrolled out of the cut. For best results when cutting profiles and rectangular tubing, start at the smallest cross section.
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Cutting stone
(see figure B)
![Bosch - Professional GWS 18V-15 S - Operation - Working Advice Operation - Working Advice]()
- Provide sufficient dust extraction when cutting stone.
- Wear a dust mask.
- The power tool may be used only for dry cutting/grinding.
For best results when cutting stone, use a diamond cutting disc.
When using the extraction guard for cutting with a cutting guide (26), the vacuum cleaner must be approved for vacuuming stone dust. Suitable vacuum cleaners are available from Bosch.
Switch on the power tool and position it with the front part of the cutting guide on the workpiece. Move the power tool with a moderate feed motion that is suited to the material being machined.
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When cutting especially hard materials such as concrete with a high pebble content, the diamond cutting disc can overheat and become damaged as a result. This is clearly indicated by circular sparking, rotating with the diamond cutting disc.
If this happens, stop cutting and allow the diamond cutting disc to cool down by running the power tool for a short time at maximum speed with no load.
If work is noticeably slower and with circular sparking, this indicates that the diamond cutting disc that has become dull. You can resharpen the disc by briefly cutting into abrasive material (e.g. lime-sand brick).
Information on structural design
Recesses in load-bearing walls are subject to country-specific regulations. These regulations must be observed under all circumstances. Seek advice from the responsible structural engineer, architect or construction supervisor before starting work.
Starting Operation
Switching on/off
To start the power tool, push the on/off switch (5) forward. To lock the on/off switch (5) in position, push the on/off switch (5) forward and down until it clicks into place.
To switch off the power tool, release the on/off switch (5); or, if the switch is locked, briefly push the on/off switch (5) backward and down and then release it.
- Always check abrasive tools before using them. The abrasive tool must be fitted properly and be able to move freely. Carry out a test run for at least one minute with no load. Do not use abrasive tools that are damaged, run untrue or vibrate during use. Damaged abrasive tools can burst apart and cause injuries.
User interface
(see figure C above)
The user interface (4) is used to preselect the speed and to indicate the status of the power tool.
Status indications
Battery charge indicator (user interface) (31) | Meaning/cause | Solution |
Yellow | Battery almost empty | Replace or charge battery soon |
Red | Battery empty | Replace or charge battery |
Temperature indicator (36) | Meaning/cause | Solution |
Yellow | Critical temperature has been reached (motor, electronics, battery) | Run the power tool at no load and allow it to cool down |
Red | Power tool is overheated and will switch off | Leave the power tool to cool down |
Power tool status indicator (30) | Meaning/cause | Solution |
Green | Status OK | – |
Power tool status indicator (30) | Meaning/cause | Solution |
Yellow | Critical temperature has been reached or rechargeable battery is almost empty | Run the power tool at no load and allow it to cool down, or replace or charge the battery soon |
Illuminated red | Power tool has overheated or rechargeable battery is empty | Allow the power tool to cool down, or replace or charge the battery |
Flashing red | KickBack control, restart protection or Drop Control has been triggered | Switch the power tool off and on again |
Indicator for cleaning the dust filter (user interface) (32) | Meaning/cause | Solution |
Yellow | Dust filter is saturated | Clean or replace the dust filter |
Maintenance and Service
Maintenance and Cleaning
- Before carrying out any work on the power tool (e.g. maintenance, tool change etc.), remove the battery from the power tool. There is risk of injury from unintentionally pressing the on/off switch.
- Keep the power tool and the filters clean to ensure good, safe operation.
Store and handle the accessories carefully.
After-Sales Service and Application Service
Our after-sales service responds to your questions concerning maintenance and repair of your product as well as spare parts. You can find explosion drawings and information on spare parts at: www.bosch-pt.com
The Bosch product use advice team will be happy to help you with any questions about our products and their accessories.
In all correspondence and spare parts orders, please always include the 10‑digit article number given on the nameplate of the product.
You can find further service addresses at: www.bosch-pt.com/serviceaddresses
Transport
The recommended lithium-ion batteries are subject to legislation on the transport of dangerous goods. The user can transport the batteries by road without further requirements.
When the batteries are shipped by third parties (e.g. air transport or forwarding agency), special requirements on packaging and labelling (e.g. ADR regulations) must be met. A dangerous goods expert must be consulted when preparing the items for shipping.
Dispatch battery packs only when the housing is undamaged. Tape or mask off open contacts and pack up the battery in such a manner that it cannot move around in the packaging. Please also observe the possibility of more detailed national regulations.
www.bosch-pt.com
Documents / Resources
References
Download manual
Here you can download full pdf version of manual, it may contain additional safety instructions, warranty information, FCC rules, etc.
Download Bosch Professional GWS 18V-15 S Manual
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