How far from the grinding wheel should you steady the work held against the work rest on a bench grinder?

The correct distance to steady the work held against the work rest on a bench grinder is 1/8 inch from the grinding wheel. This distance is important because it allows for effective and safe grinding while minimizing the risk of contact with the wheel itself. Maintaining this spacing ensures that the workpiece is adequately supported and reduces the chances of the material becoming wedged or dislodged during operation.

Using the appropriate distance also helps to prevent excessive wear on the grinding wheel and allows for better control over the grinding process. Too large a distance may result in a lack of stability and control, while too close can lead to the risk of the workpiece being pulled into the wheel, which could be dangerous. Thus, the 1/8 inch spacing strikes an optimal balance for safety and efficiency in the grinding process.