Grinding Wheels Guide: Mastering Angle, Pressure and Technique for Better Results

Whether you're removing heavy stock, cleaning up welds or putting a final finish on a workpiece, proper grinding technique is just as important as choosing the right wheel. Using the correct angle, body position, pressure and stroke pattern can improve productivity, extend wheel life and help create a safer work environment.

Tags: Best Tools for the Job, Grinding wheels, Efficiency, American Made, Abrasive Wheels

5 Common Sources of Maintenance Delays — and How to Reduce Them

In maintenance, repair and operations, delays rarely start with one big problem. More often, they begin with a small issue that interrupts the flow of work: a missing part, an empty bin, a slow ordering process or a safety item that is not where it should be. Those small delays can quickly turn into lost labor, extended downtime and frustrated customers.

Tags: MRO, Efficiency

Understanding Electrical Basics: Building Reliable Connections with the Right Tools, Terminals and Wire

Electrical reliability isn’t just about keeping equipment running — it’s about safety, productivity and preventing costly downtime. In fact, nearly 80% of electrical failures occur at the point of termination. That means the small components — crimpers, terminals and wire — play a massive role in preventing failure long before the system is ever energized.

Tags: MRO, Electrical, Best Tools for the Job, Efficiency, Wires, Heat Shrink, Crimping

The Ultimate Guide to Cleaning Solutions for Every Surface

Keeping your facility spotless requires more than just elbow grease — it takes the right cleaner for the job. Whether you’re tackling greasy kitchen equipment, shiny stainless steel or crystal-clear glass surfaces, using the proper product ensures a thorough clean without damage or residue.

Here’s a quick guide to Kimball Midwest’s top-performing cleaning solutions and when to use each one.

Extreme™ Heavy-Duty Foaming Cleaner

Best for: Stainless steel, aluminum, plastics and rubber — perfect for kitchen equipment, flues, sinks and exhaust hoods.

Why it works:
This industrial-strength foaming cleaner cuts through the toughest grease, oil, dirt and grime with ease. Ideal for deep-cleaning demanding environments like commercial kitchens and maintenance areas.

Stainless Steel Cleaner and Polish / Stainless Steel Cleaning Towels / Water-Based Cleaner and Towels

Best for: Stainless steel, aluminum, brass, silver, copper and chrome.

Why it works:
Cleans, polishes and protects your metal surfaces while preventing water spots and fingerprints. Unlike other cleaners, it won’t leave a rainbow effect or heavy residue — just a brilliant shine.

Vinylex – Vinyl, Leather & Plastic Cleaner

Best for: Vinyl, leather and plastic — great for vehicle interiors, upholstery, dashboards and convertible tops.

Why it works:
The foaming action lifts stains without leaving behind sticky residue. It also leaves a fresh, pleasant scent — perfect for automotive or office environments.

Glass Cleaners

Best for: Windows, mirrors, windshields, shower doors, display cases and more.

Why it works:
Removes dust, dirt, grease, fingerprints and smoke film with a heavy-duty formulas that leave no streaks or rainbow film — just crystal-clear results.

All Purpose Cleaner / Cleaner with Citri-Solv

Best for: Metal, porcelain, tile, glass, wood and plastic — use it anywhere from kitchens to locker rooms.

Why it works: This versatile cleaner freshens and deodorizes with a light plumeria scent while leaving surfaces spotless and sanitized.

Heavy-Duty Utility Cleaner
(NSF C1 Rated)

Best for: Stainless steel, plastics, tile, porcelain, countertops and appliances.

Why it works: A high-foaming formula that easily lifts grime, grease, smoke film and scuff marks. It’s ideal for tough jobs in food prep areas, kitchens or workshops.

Food Surface Cleaner & Degreaser (NSF A1 Rated)

Best for: Tile, concrete, stainless steel, painted metals and plastic surfaces in food environments.

Why it works:
Removes fats, oils, cooking grease and protein residues from washable surfaces — safe and effective for kitchens and food processing areas.

Ultra-Blitz Ultra Strength Cleaner

Best for: Industrial machinery, concrete floors, metal parts and HVAC equipment.

Why it works: An ultra-strength formula that attacks stubborn stains, rust and dirt without damaging canvas or cloth — perfect for industrial or marine applications.

No two cleaning challenges are the same, and the right product can make all the difference. From kitchens and restrooms to manufacturing floors, these specialized cleaners offer high performance, safety and convenience across a range of surfaces.

Keeping your facility spotless just got easier — reach out to your sales representative to choose the right cleaner, and let the results shine. If you do not have a sales rep, we can help you Find a Rep!

Tags: Products, Shop Supplies, Solution, Best Tools for the Job, Efficiency, Cleaning Supplies, Custom Solutions

How to Prevent Cutting Tool Failures

Cutting tools — whether drill bits, reamers or hole cutters — play a central role in ensuring accuracy and consistency in fabrication and maintenance operations. Yet, there can still be failures. Not from poor tool quality, but from improper use or lack of maintenance or oversight during operation. Following a structured approach before, during and after use can dramatically extend tool life and prevent accidents.

Tags: MRO, Cutting Tools, Drill Bits, Best Tools for the Job, Efficiency, Safety Seminar

10 Cutting Tool Red Flags You Can’t Afford to Ignore

When it comes to cutting tools, safety isn’t just about following the manual, it’s about noticing the warning signs before they cost you time, money and even your health. Overlooking small issues can quickly snowball into big problems, from expensive medical bills to missed deadlines.

Tags: Safety, Cutting Tools, Drilling, Solution, Drill Bits, Quality Products, Made in America, KM USA, Efficiency