The conventional sanding process takes some time and you will get tired if you are using the standard sandpaper. However, this has been made much easier with the electric sanders and with the best random orbital sander you will get a smooth finish on your carpentry project. If you have to buy a sanding tool, it is imperative to see to it that you pick this type of sander. This is a tool that gives you professional results and is easy to use. This is the bridging gap between the orbital sanders and the belt sanders. As such, you will get both speed and a smooth finish on your surface.
In this guide, my intention is to see to it that you understand the sander and be able to use it in the right manner. I will take you through each step of using the random orbital sander to achieve the desired results. Whether you are an expert or a novice, you have nothing to worry about as I will show you the whole process and in just a short while, you will be sanding like an expert. With this guide, you can be able to tackle a wide range of projects that need a smooth finish.
How Does A Random Orbital Sander Work?
The way the best random orbital sander works is amazing and this is what ensures that you have great outcomes on the work piece that is being sanded. Just like the orbital sander, this one will move in circular motions, while rotating the entire pad at the same time. With this motion, the sanding particles will be kept from making contact with the same spot over and over, and this results in a perfect and uniformed finish. As I had indicated earlier, this is a tool that has the speed of the belt sander and the finish of an orbital sander.
The random orbital sander will remove stock faster and it will leave the surface with a smooth finish and this is what makes it be the most versatile tool on the market. This unit is usually one-handled and has a palm grip, which makes it be the most convenient and portable sander. Most models have a diameter pad of 5 to 6 inches and in most cases, the 5 inches should be ideal for DIY projects.
What Can You Use A Orbital Sander For?
You should know that by investing in the best random orbit sander means that you will have a versatile tool. This can be used to remove layers of metal or even paint from a surface. You can use them when you need to buff up cars. In most cases, these are the tools that will be used to remove rust from steel surfaces and strip paint.
Most woodworkers prefer to use the orbital sanders as they are able to sand in both orbital and rotary motions. With the tow motions combined, simultaneously, you can be sure that you will have great results and the swirl marks will be reduced significantly. This results in a fine finish.
how to use random orbital sander Step By Step Guide
I want to show you how to use your best random orbital sander in the right manner. Even if you have never sanded before, or have never used an electric sander, you have nothing to worry about. I will show you every single step that you should take so that you can use the tool as required and make great progress. Here are the steps to follow to be able to sand with an orbital sander:
STEP 1: Initial Preps of Materials
The preparation of the material is critical and is the very first process that you need to do. You should inspect the stock and ensure that there are no foreign objects. Remove any pins, nails or even wood knots. This is a way that prevents any kickbacks, which tend to be quite dangerous. Once this is done, you should clamp the work piece securely. This is also a safety measure to ensure that the work piece does not move when being sanded. Attach the dust carrier to the dust port so as to ensure that all the dust will be contained effectively when you are sanding.
STEP 2: Attach the Appropriate Paper
The essence of using the sander is to make the sanding process easier, using the sandpaper. As such, you will need to attach the right sandpaper to the pad. This should be determined by the specific type of project that you have and as such, you may choose to use the 40 to 60 grit papers for fast and tough sanding projects. If you wish to have a smooth finish, then a finer grit would be the ideal choice in this case. To attach your sandpaper, just peel the back side and attach the paper to the pad.
STEP 3: Safety Measures
You need to observe safety and this will be done by inspecting the tool so as to ensure that all the parts are intact and working. When everything checks out, you are almost commencing the sanding process. However, before this, you need to consider your personal safety. You should cover your face with a dust mask and also wear safety glasses, so as to protect your eyes from debris and particles. It is also advisable to protect your ears from the noise of the sander. Wearing gloves is also recommended for your safety and enhanced grip.
STEP 4: Actual Sanding
Its now time to sand, turn on the orbital sander and let it spin to maximum speeds. This is when you will gently and steadily make contact and move the sander along the wood grain. You are now, actually, sanding and you need to be gentle. Do not exert excessive pressure, as the sander is made in such a way that it applies the right pressure for sanding.
STEP 5: Final Touches
The finishing is an important bit of the task and in this case, you will need to edge to sand the edges. When this is done, turn off the unit and dust off the debris and particles that are left on the work piece and clean the wood with a tack cloth. If you have not achieved the desired smoothness, you can change the sandpaper to a finer grit and repeat the process.
How To Change Orbital Sander Pad?
Anytime that you need to change the orbital sander pad, you should ensure that you start by turning off the tool. Turn the sander over and let the disc face you. Remove the disc and this should start from the sides and then move around the side of the pad. Pull it gently and then replace it with a new one. Here are the steps to follow to replace the pad on the sander:
- Unscrew the mounting screws that are on the sander pad
- Take out the old pad from the unit
- Install the new pad and screw back the pad.
- Place the screws in the right place and tighten them
- Ensure that all the screws are firmly tightened and turn on the sander to test its motion.
Safety Tips
The proper use of the best random orbital sander entails your personal safety as well. As such, you need to be cautious when operating the sander so as to avoid unnecessary injuries. Here are some safety tips that you can observe and be safe when sanding with an orbital sander:
- Always ensure that your face and eyes are covered, when you are sanding
- When the unit is not being used, you should disconnect it from the power supply.
- You should inspect the tool before starting to sand and ensure it is in a perfect condition and the sandpaper is intact.
- When making any adjustments on your sander, turn it off and unplug it from the power supply.
- Never press it down when you are sanding
- Ensure that you always clean the tool before storing it away.
- You should have a firm grip on the sander when turning it on since it can jump.
- Secure the work piece to be sanded with clamps to prevent any movement
Final Recommendation
It is my sincere hope that the things that I have shared in this guide will be of great help to you. Even if not all of them may help you, I know that there is something for everyone that desires to use the orbital sander in the right way. You will be able to make great use of your unit and also enhance your safety while working like a pro. This is a guide that will be useful to both professionals and beginners alike.
It will be just a matter of time before you can start sanding like a pro. When you continue working on your skills, then you will appreciate the full potential of your best random orbital sander, to a great extent. This one of the most versatile tools that you can have when it comes to sanding. If you have any suggestions or questions please leave a comment below. It would also be great if you can share this guide with your loved ones.
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