Angle grinders generate intense dust loads, especially with masonry cutting and surface grinding. A properly matched dust shroud turns the tool into an effective local exhaust ventilation (LEV) point, lowering airborne particulate and clean-up time. This guide explains types, sizing and compatibility so you can set up quickly and control RCS and other dusts.

Shroud types

• Cutting (tuckpoint) shrouds: a partial enclosure with a plunge or hinged front for raking joints or slotting. Designed to track a cutting disc close to edges.
• Surface grinding shrouds: a full skirt that seals to the work for diamond cup wheels. Some have a removable front for edge work.
• Skirt styles: brush or flexible rubber lips. Brushes float well on uneven surfaces; rubber gives a tighter seal on flat work.

Sizes and fit

• Disc diameters: common grinder sizes are 115, 125 and 230 mm. Match the shroud to the disc and guard size to avoid fouling the wheel.
• Collar compatibility: check the grinder neck and guard interface. Universal collars suit many tools, but model-specific rings can give a tighter fit.
• Hose interface: confirm port size and use anti-static hoses and cuffs that seal positively.

Setup and technique

• Extractor pairing: use at least M Class dust extraction; for high-risk tasks indoors, add H14 room filtration with an air scrubber or negative air machine.
• Maintain the seal: run shallow passes and keep the skirt in contact with the surface. Avoid levering the grinder, which breaks capture.
• Airflow under load: judge performance with the tool connected. Keep hoses short and avoid tight bends.
• Wheel selection: use segmented diamond wheels for cutting and balanced cup wheels for grinding to minimise vibration and skirt lift.

Common pitfalls

• Removing the guard to fit a shroud: never do this; use a compatible shroud that works with the guard system.
• Using domestic vacuums: they clog quickly and re-emit fine dust. Use an industrial M or H Class extractor.
• Ignoring maintenance: replace worn skirts and check for cracked housings and loose clamps.

MAXVAC produces compatible shrouds and grinder attachments that pair well with M or H Class extractors for reliable source capture.

Practical takeaways

• Pick the shroud type for cutting or surface grinding and match disc and collar sizes.
• Seal counts: maintain skirt contact and steady feed to keep capture efficient.
• Pair with M Class extraction and consider H14 room filtration indoors.

A good shroud, correct extractor and sound technique turn the grinder from a dust generator into a controlled process. That means cleaner air, faster clean-up and safer work.