Circular grinder for wood. Choosing a wood grinder - tips. Purpose and design features
Grinding uneven surfaces- it's not easy. Previously, sandpaper was widely used as a grinding tool, but in our century high technology sandpaper grinding method has gone into oblivion due to its low efficiency and labor intensity. Today, grinding machines, both belt and vibration, come to the rescue in the difficult task of grinding. The variety of grinding machines is huge, so it makes sense to consider each of the types separately, and in this article we will focus on belt machines. We have found the most popular belt sanders and will help our readers figure out which belt sander is best for you.
Price - 14 999 rubles
Our rating is opened by a compact grinder from the well-known manufacturer of household appliances Makita, it can be used both for industrial purposes and for processing simple surfaces in living conditions. Due to its small size, the machine can be used on surfaces that are difficult to reach, such as wall corners or vertical elements. wooden furniture. High quality workmanship does not limit the range of work surfaces to wood only - even stone, metal or plastic can be processed with a machine.
The price tag, however, leaves much to be desired - for the money you can buy three grinding machine a smaller class, but for a professional this tool will be indispensable.
№9 - Hammer LSM 810
Price - 4 999 rubles
Excellent grinder with dust collector and adjustable shaft speed. The starting mechanism of the machine is protected from accidental start, and the electrical wiring is equipped with double insulation, which minimizes the risks of operation. The device is powered by a 220V network, well suited for use in domestic and industrial purposes. The belt travel is manually adjusted by a special mechanism, and therefore the unit is cheaper than models of a similar category. You can center the tape with a special pin, which is located on the front of the tool. The wide 75 mm belt combined with the powerful 810 watt motor allows you to sand even difficult surfaces with high efficiency.
№8 - Hammer LSM 800B
Price - 4 500 rubles
A massive unit, functionally reminiscent of a scraping machine. Serves for processing wood, chipboard panels and plywood. The 800V machine is not difficult to operate, unlike similar machines with a larger engine. There is a start button blocker, so you won't damage the raw surface by accidentally starting the device. The unit is distinguished by increased ease of use - with rubber pads and an additional handle, it is convenient to hold the machine despite its solid power. The belt speed is adjustable from 120 to 290 meters per minute, which increases the versatility of the machine and allows you to process various wooden surfaces. Quite an acceptable option for your money.
№7 - BORT BBS-801N
Price - 3 500 rubles
Reliable and inexpensive grinder from a Chinese brand. The manufacturer gives as many as five years of warranty for this device, in the box, along with the machine itself, there is a dust collector, three types of sanding belt (P60, P80, P100). The position of the sanding belt is adjusted by a centering screw that can be adjusted to one of 3 positions for different types of work. Next to the switch is a belt speed switch, the owner can set one of six speed modes, while the device must be turned on. The body of the machine is made of durable impact-resistant plastic, the instructions are written in 4 languages, including Russian, so there should be no problems with setting up and operating. The machine is well suited both for use at home and in the country, operation in industrial mode is not recommended.
№6 - Bosch PBS 75A
Price - 5 999 rubles
An advanced belt sander from a world famous brand. The tool is equipped with a vacuum adapter, a sanding belt 75 mm wide, and a 710V motor. The well-thought-out layout and high quality of fitting parts do not cause any complaints, we pay not only for the brand, but for comfort and reliability. PBS 75A weighs just over 4 kg, which is not the best indicator, but with frequent use you can quickly get used to it. Among the disadvantages of the machine, one can single out the small size of the dust collector - far from all the dust gets into the collection container, therefore, during operation, it is important to use minimal protection. It is possible to work with the unit for a long time and with any surfaces - the low level of vibration does not allow the hands to get tired even when processing hard materials.
№5 - Black and Decker KA86
Price - 3 999 rubles
One of the best budget models of grinders falls into the top 5 of our rating. With a weight of 2.8 kg, the tool has good operational characteristics while being cheaper than competing models. The machine is equipped with a capacious dust collector, but it does not collect dust as well as we would like, so you should take care of additional eye protection.
Unfortunately, the device will not work in industrial conditions, but it will do for daily household needs, this is a good belt sander for wood. A 720W motor and a 75 mm wide tape are enough to process any wooden surfaces, and the machine is also equipped with an additional belt tightening function, which is not available on many expensive models.
Black and Decker KA86
No. 4 - Caliber LSHM-1000UE
Price - 3 200 rubles
A worthy option from a domestic manufacturer, an affordable and convenient grinder. This tool will serve as a good helper during repairs, the tape is clearly fixed and does not slip during operation, although this device has a non-critical design flaw: the dust collector does not catch the lumps well, so the dust after work will have to be collected throughout the room. The engine power of 1 kW is enough to process any surfaces, the belt speed is adjustable in the range from 120 to 360 m/m. Included with the device is a handle with a lever for a comfortable grip, as well as 2 additional carbon brushes. The grinder weighs 3.6 kg, the belt width is 76 mm, the machine is suitable for daily use, however, the belt is very hot and the device needs short breaks to avoid overheating and breaking the working part.
Caliber LShM-1000UE
No. 3 - Interskol LSHM-100/1200E
Price - 6 300 rubles
The top three is closed by another product of domestic production, the Interskol belt sander. Of all the models presented in the rating, this instance has the most powerful engine (1200 W), so it can scrape laminate, grind stone and level metal surfaces. Best of all, the Interskol belt grinder is suitable for continuous use in difficult conditions - it seems that even asphalt can be sanded with it, but with its weight of 5.6 kg, this will not be an easy mission. A dust collector is provided with the machine, which copes very well with its main task, but you still cannot do without a protective mask and gloves. The machine can be converted for sharpening garden tool, a comfortable rubberized handle prevents it from slipping out of your hands, the tape is quickly and easily replaced, but for rare household needs it is reasonable to look for something simpler.
Interskol LShM-100/1200E
№2 - Skil 1215 LA
Price - 4 300 rubles
An interesting device, made in a futuristic design, but appearance by no means the most important of its merits. 650W power is enough for repair work or use for small household purposes, such a tool is not suitable for industrial processing. The machine weighs 2.9 kg, the speed does not sag, the tape is automatically centered when the machine is turned on. Tape performance is limited to a threshold of 300 meters / min, which is more than enough for everyday life.
The machine is easy to assemble and disassemble, which may be necessary when clogging the undercarriage with dust. With this machine, dust can be the only problem, since the size of the dust container is not very impressive, and there is no way to control its filling. The machine's motor does not overheat even when running for a long time, but it is recommended to stop occasionally to allow the abrasive belt to cool down.
№1 - Black Decker KA 88
Price - 4 299 rubles
The leader of our rating was the grinder from the previously mentioned company, which won over other models in terms of price and quality and has impressive functionality. Outwardly, the unit resembles a vacuum cleaner without a hose, equipped with a comfortable rubberized semicircle handle with a comfortable grip. By the way, this machine not only resembles a vacuum cleaner in appearance, but also catches flying dust just as well, so that the treated surface remains clean. The device weighs a little more than 3.5 kg, which is acceptable for such a size. The abrasive belt can be easily replaced with just one movement of the special handle, and the 720 W motor is enough for medium-hard surfaces. Thanks to the reduced front roller, the machine can perform high-quality processing of both wide and narrow areas in hard-to-reach places, which is achieved with a belt width of 75 mm with a maximum travel speed of 250 m/min.
This article is intended for anyone who works with wood and wants to make the process of sanding easier. A wood grinder is great for this, which model to choose?
There are several types of wood finishing tools on the market: belt sanders, eccentric, orbital. So, which grinder to choose, what type of device better fit for specific purposes?
Before finding the answer to this question, we should understand how different models differ and compare their functions with our needs.
How to choose a wood sander - tips
Sanding wood is a time-consuming process that can be greatly facilitated by using the right tools. For wood processing, belt, oscillatory or eccentric, as well as deltoid grinders are best suited.
The correct choice of instrument depends on the type of work to be done and on the features of the workpieces: shape, size, grinding of corners and hard-to-reach areas, type of coating, etc.
For individual works different tools are better suited, namely:
- a belt sander is best chosen for grinding large and flat surfaces;
- an eccentric sander allows you to conveniently process convex and concave small wooden surfaces;
- the oscillation model has a similar application, with the possibility of processing corners thanks to the rectangular sole;
- The delta sander is ideal for complex surfaces that most sanders can't reach, while its small footprint is generally recommended for smaller wood surfaces.
Belt sander for wood - how to choose?
Description and purpose of the model
If the surface we are dealing with is large and relatively flat, then it is better to choose a belt sander. It is designed for processing solid wood, lacquered boards and veneered panels.
Belt sanders are characterized by the highest efficiency, they are most often used in workshops and rarely for home work.
Due to their high productivity, belt sanders can process large areas in a short period of time with excellent results. The treated surface is smooth and uniform. In addition, since belt sanders are primarily used for linear motion, they are ideal for sanding along the grain of the wood.
The disadvantage of belt sanders is the design of the base, which does not allow reaching hard-to-reach corners. The edge of the tape is not at the same time the edge of the sole, so surfaces, for example, near a wall, are not accessible for this device. In this case, you need a deltoid model.
Which belt sander to choose?
To choose the right belt sander, you should pay attention to the following parameters:
- The speed of movement of the working part - the higher the speed, the faster and more accurately the surface is polished. Depending on the model, the speed can vary from 200 to 420 rpm.
- Belt size - this parameter affects the speed and accuracy of grinding. But be careful! How larger size, the faster grinding occurs, but at the same time its accuracy decreases.
- Power - The higher the power, the better the tool will handle harder and more difficult surfaces such as hardwoods (oak). Thanks to the high power, the tool can work longer without overheating.
If we need a wood belt sander, how to choose the right power? Belt sanders with motor power up to 1000 W are mainly designed for light work, and with motor power over 1400 W, they will work perfectly with a short but heavy load.
Model overview
Below are the models of grinders recommended by experts. For each model, distinctive characteristics are highlighted.
1.Grinder Graphite 59G394. The small diameter of the front roller (16 mm) and the optional angle-adjustable handle make it easy to sand in hard-to-reach places.
2. The Makita 9920 is a powerful and professional belt sander with electronic speed control for optimum performance. Thanks to the automatic lateral adjustment of the belt, you can sand the surface right up to the edge.
Purpose of the tool
The eccentric sander is the most universal tool, designed for sanding convex and concave small wood surfaces and many other materials.
This model is used in the following cases:
Ideal for wood sanding;
Suitable for grinding metal surfaces;
It is also useful for polishing, thanks to the possibility of installing a polishing disc;
Can be used to clean old paintwork.
An eccentric or orbital wood sander is especially recommended for processing and updating furniture: chests of drawers, tables. Eccentric sanders have a plate that rotates and also oscillates. Thanks to this, such devices work faster than oscillatory grinders. However, this tool also has disadvantages, eccentric sanders are characterized by a round sole shape, which does not allow corners to be processed.
The diameter of the working part is usually 125 or 150 mm. Of course, the larger the working surface, the higher the productivity. However, the working surface of eccentric sanders is smaller than that of oscillatory ones. This has its pros and cons: the advantage of a smaller sole is that it is easier to work with in hard to reach places, the cons are less performance on large surfaces.
How to choose an eccentric wood sander?
To figure out which orbital sander to choose, you need to analyze the following parameters:
- Eccentricity is a parameter that has a significant impact on the performance of the tool and means deviations of the movement of the sole from the pivot point. The higher the value, the more accurate the tool works.
- Disc diameter - large diameters allow you to quickly process large surfaces. Small diameters, in turn, are better suited for working in hard-to-reach places.
- The number of revolutions per unit of time - the greater the number of revolutions, the more accurately the tool works (as in the case of an oscillating machine).
Model overview
- The Bosch PEX 400AE eccentric sander delivers high quality sanding, high efficiency and optimum polishing performance. The Paper Assistant feature makes it easy to pull on the sandpaper. Supplied in a case with a set of sandpaper. The built-in suction module transports the crushed dust directly into the container, which is easy to empty.
- The Bosch 400W GEX 125-150 AVE eccentric sander is designed for professional use. Extremely versatile device thanks to the choice of grinding disc with a diameter of 150 or 125 mm. Supplied in a case with a set of sanding pads
Oscillatory sander - advantages and disadvantages
Main characteristics
An oscillating sander is used for sanding flat and even surfaces. It is ideal for processing wooden objects such as furniture, countertops and doors.
Unlike the eccentric model, oscillating sanders are equipped with a rectangular sole, thanks to which you can sand corners. More powerful are larger models, the sole of which has a rectangular or square shape.
How to choose an oscillation sander?
Before buying, you need to pay attention to:
The number of vibrations - the higher this value, the better the tool works. Usually denoted as the number of oscillations per minute.
The size of the sole - the larger it is, the faster the surface will be processed. However, when working on small surfaces, it is better to choose an oscillating sander with a smaller sole, as this will allow you to more accurately work on hard-to-reach places.
How to choose deltoid grinders?
Model Description
The main difference between delta grinders and oscillation grinders is the sole. In shape, it resembles the letter delta (hence the name of this type of instrument). This model is ideal for sanding in corners and other hard-to-reach places for oscillating, eccentric and especially belt sanders.
Due to the small size of the sole, they are designed for sanding small surfaces. In addition, for the deltoid model, you can purchase a spatula-shaped sole. Thanks to it, delta sanders will be useful when cleaning old paints and varnishes, especially from chairs.
What to look for when choosing a delta grinder?
When choosing a deltoid model, one should analyze such a parameter as the amplitude of oscillations (oscillation) - usually indicated in millimeters and ranges from 1 to 2 mm. The higher the value, the more the sole deflects and the tool works more efficiently.
Model overview
1. Model DeWalt D26430 is designed for professionals. It guarantees high efficiency when sanding and polishing in corners and edges, in hard-to-reach places and on small surfaces. The design allows for smooth maneuvering and precise grinding for more precise work. The dust collecting system provides convenient operation.
2.The Bosch PSM 18 Li model is mainly designed for home use. It has a bifurcated sanding pad, a Delta swivel tip that allows optimal use of the sandpaper. The built-in suction unit transports the dust directly to the microfilter container for dust-free operation. The cordless grinder provides virtually unlimited work – without the inconvenience of too short cables.
How to choose a grinder for the home - summing up
- Belt sander extremely efficient and very fast on large surfaces. For example, this tool can quickly remove very thick layers of paint from wooden surfaces. The design is characterized by a very high power rating. The machine is extremely easy to use and safe.
- random orbital sander is a good quality tool used for grinding flat and rounded surfaces. These models have the highest accuracy. However, the outsole does not reach hard-to-reach places such as corners. The machine has a round disk that works in oscillating and rotating motion at the same time, depending on the pressure. It is also easy to use, but requires a little more attention than oscillatory. This instrument is held with both hands. Thanks to the combination of two plate movements, the model is very efficient, fast, productive and, if used skillfully, leaves no visible grinding marks.
- Oscillatory grinder used for large flat surfaces. If we have never sanded before, it is better to start with this device. It perfectly smoothes the surface, while its work depends on the thickness of the sandpaper. The machine is very easy to use and safe. She doesn't need much attention.
- deltoid machine– small triangular sole makes it easier to work on surfaces inaccessible to large grinders. However, the small footprint also makes the model less effective on large surfaces.
Let's start with the classification - each variety has its pros and cons, its own specialization. If you need to process planes of a large area at high speed, but it also does not fit the ability to sharpen the same drill or chisel - choose belt sander, which, if desired, can also be used as a grinding machine. But keep in mind that not all models have the ability to mount on the side or up with a tape! In addition, high productivity, ensured by a tape running quickly in a circle, will also require “straight hand” - by passing or overdoing the machine in place, it is easy to “dig” an unevenness in an already almost ideal plane. A couple more disadvantages are the complexity of the design, the presence of a belt drive and the need to buy ready-made tapes of the desired size.
Vibrating machines have a rectangular or “iron-like” (for working in corners) sole, rapidly oscillating back and forth with a certain amplitude. Such cars are simple in design (you can buy an amateur one inexpensively, without really risking reliability) and not bad in performance. For them, you can easily cut sandpaper from a sheet yourself, especially if the manufacturer has added a device for punching holes in sheets to the kit. Even a beginner will quickly master such a machine. But, if you do not plan to work with a tree, it is better to look away eccentric (orbital) machines- they are, of course, more difficult, and Velcro circles will have to be bought, but it is easier to ensure the cleanliness of the surface with an “orbit” (the circle does not “crawl” back and forth, but also rotates during grinding), it is more convenient to work around bends. It is not for nothing that you will see exactly such cars in any car body service: here you have to constantly bring curved surfaces to “zero”. But for a tree that needs to be sanded along the fibers, an eccentric machine is not suitable precisely because of the principle of operation, in the hands of carpenters there are only vibrating “surface grinders”.
In addition to the power, convenience and vibration level that you need to pay attention to when choosing any power tool, be sure to make sure that there is good dust protection for the main components of the machine and especially for dust removal efficiency: it is not always possible to connect a vacuum cleaner, and it is simply dangerous to use some models of grinders without a respirator, so they throw a lot of dust in working area to the air.
Overview of types, models, manufacturers. Which one do you need?
Today, in every store that specializes in appliances for construction and home, you can find a huge range of grinders, but it is often very difficult to choose the right one. Let's try to figure out the grinders together to make right choice.
Angle grinders (grinders)
Photo: struman.nethouse.ru
First of all, it is worth mentioning angle grinders (grinders).
In a number of grinders, they stand apart - they are used not only for grinding, but also for cutting. Angle grinders can cut metal, stone, concrete, but they cannot be used for wood (the density of this material is too low). Versatility is provided by working nozzles. Grinding wheels for grinders are very different - brush, cup, dish-shaped, peeling, cutting, etc.
Angle grinders got their name from their angular gear.
The capabilities of the angle grinder depend on the diameter and power. So, for example, a company Makita has in the model range both household grinders with a disc of 125 mm and a weight of 1.5 kg, and professional machines weighing 5 kg. Their difference is in maximum efficiency and reliability.
Straight grinders
Photo: www.toool.ru
If you need to grind in places where an ordinary angle grinder cannot reach, then you should buy straight grinder. Its principle of operation is approximately the same as that of the angular one, however, the direct gearbox and long spindle make it more crafty. Some models have a start switch interlock. This function allows you to prevent the device from "burning out" during prolonged use. Still the same company Makita has in its arsenal straight grinders with the SJS (Super Joint System) system, which simultaneously reduces vibration, extends the service life of the tool and increases user protection.
Belt sanders
Photo: electrovenik.ru
next class grinding machines - tape. End rollers, on which a looped abrasive belt (the belt with which grinding is carried out) is stretched, is what this type of grinder is. The weight of the models can be from three to five kg, and the power is 650-1200 watts. At the same time, belt grinders have another important characteristic - this is the size of the working area (width). It can be 75-100 mm. In just a minute, such a unit can remove 15 grams of the surface from the material being processed. Such a machine can be used for primary processing (fast and rough grinding) of a large surface made of wood, metal, concrete or plastic. Also, a belt grinder can be used for stripping and roughing. To work with small parts, there is the possibility of a stationary installation of a grinder (when the machine is turned over and the workpiece is held in the hands, and not the grinder). In general, for finer work it is better to use a band file. His design features allow you to grind in hard-to-reach places.
Brush grinders
Photo: www.toool.ru
Another view grinders- this is brush. Unlike tape, they have only one roller. A nylon or metal mesh is put on it. With this tool, you can easily remove a layer of paint, varnish or rust from a metal or wooden surface. In addition, the machine is suitable for wood structuring. For grinding, special polishing rings can be used if the required mandrel shaft is available.
Orbital sanders
Photo: snosn.com
Finer grinding can be done and vibrating grinder. You can also hear such a name as a surface grinder. This tool has flat sole, which makes movements forward and backward (reciprocating motion). The amplitude of such movements is small, but here is the maximum speed. In this case, the quality of material processing depends on how small the amplitude is. An abrasive skin is fixed on the sole, which is used for grinding.
The sandpaper can be fixed thanks to Velcro or latches. The second way is more practical. For machines manufactured by the company Bosch, there is a replaceable working platform. This allows you to use both methods of attaching the skin.
When choosing such a tool, do not be afraid of its low power. It is rare to find a surface grinder with a motor over 600 watts. This is also a plus, as the tool is maneuverable and light. Thanks to the finely porous polymer lining of the sole, the sanding sheet adheres to the surface to be treated as much as possible. This improves the grinding process qualitatively. With this tool, you can process the material along the edge with a snug fit with the mating element.
Delta grinders
Photo: m.skileurope.com
More functional are delta grinders. They have a working platform in the form of a triangle that is brought forward. Having a similar principle of operation, the tool is endowed with more opportunities. Small dimensions and design features make it possible to process workpieces that have a complex shape. Sanding sheets for this type of tool are fixed only with Velcro.
Random Orbital Sanders
Photo: www.electrovenik.ru
Masterfully cope with fine grinding eccentric sanders. At the same time, especially high-quality tools of this type are produced by the company DeWalt. The working element of the grinder combines both rotational and oscillatory movements at once. All the same abrasive sheets are attached to the work surface. For concave and convex surfaces, an elastic round "plate" is used. Also, the machines are compact and have a low power of 200-450 watts. Power is directly proportional to the diameter of the working surface. However, eccentric sanders with the highest power and diameter of the working surface make coarser sanding. The smaller the diameter, the better the work will be done. For the final processing of the material, it is worth choosing tools with a stroke amplitude of less than 3 mm. For fast processing, you can use tools that have a stroke amplitude of more than 5 mm. Also, the quality of processing is affected by the type of abrasive (depending on the grain size). It fastens with Velcro.
Choose a manufacturer
High-quality grinders are produced by companies such as Interskol, Bosch,
Hitachi,
Makita,DeWalt. No wonder these brands are on everyone's lips. The durability of the tools of these companies is combined with excellent performance, high efficiency and reliability of engines of various power.
The models are double insulated and most have an integrated dust extraction system. For this, the machines are equipped with a special dust collector. It is also possible to connect them to industrial vacuum cleaner. And all this is combined with affordable price. Another advantage of these tools is to highlight the excellent ergonomics.
Of the imported manufacturers of grinding machines, it is still worth highlighting Skil, meister, Metabo, KRESS, as well as Black&Decker. Quality Russian brands are bison and Interskol.
brand Makita is the pride of Austria and Germany. The grinders of this company are a joint product of these spirit countries. The main model range is represented by professional tools, but household models are also quite diverse. Convenience, reliability and value for money are the main features of the tools of this company. The largest range of "Makita" among tape machines. The increased sealing of the engine is the difference between the vibrating grinders of this company. Maximum performance is represented by grinders and eccentrics.
The prices for the tools of this company are very diverse (this is due to huge selection models). So, for example, an eccentric grinder from Makita can be bought for 3-12 thousand rubles. The price of vibratory grinders is 1.5-8 thousand, brush grinders - 12-16 thousand, belt grinders - 4-10 thousand, and the price of grinders is about 6 thousand. Battery grinders are more expensive by several thousand rubles. The most expensive are grinders for concrete (from 20 thousand rubles).
Japanese brand Hitachi is a guarantee of durability and safety. The performance and reliability of grinders of this brand is no worse than that of Makita. The company specializes in premium class instruments. The brand has been around for over fifty years. During this time, the company managed to create and patent many developments and technologies. The range of grinders is rich both in the class of household tools and professional ones.
A Hitachi belt grinder can be bought for 4-8 thousand rubles, a vibrating one for 2.5-4 thousand, a polishing machine for 6-9 thousand, and an eccentric for only 1 thousand rubles. Hitachi Bulgarians are represented by a huge model range, so the price range is from 2 to 10 thousand rubles. You can buy a battery grinder for 14 thousand rubles.
German trademark Bosch everyone has heard for more than a decade. Swiss and German production is represented by a model range of professional tools. Poland and China manufacture household grinders of this company. The most popular are Bosch belt and random orbit sanders, as they are the most highly efficient.
The price of Bosch vibratory grinders is 4-8 thousand rubles, eccentric - 3-6 thousand, concrete grinders - from 16 thousand, straight - 16-20 thousand, belt - 6-10 thousand rubles. Bosch grinders are also represented by a wide range and their price ranges from 2.5 to 8 thousand rubles.
Company meister- a fairly fresh brand, which is distinguished by its reasonable prices for high quality goods. German-made Meister grinders, they are convenient and easy to use when working. Such tools are suitable for both home and garden, and for construction works.
Household or professional?
Photo: azimut22.ru
It is worth remembering that grinders (like many other tools) are divided into professional and household. When buying, it is worth clearly defining the scope of work that will be performed by this tool. Even a one-time use can “kill” a household high-quality grinder if the tool has been used for a long time without interruption. Professional tools are designed for long and highly productive work. Such grinders are able to withstand quite large loads.
So, for professional models of grinders, long continuous work is not terrible. For the manufacture of such tools, the highest quality and reliable materials are used. At the same time, the reliability of electronics is at a higher level. Not a single household grinder can withstand work in multi-shift mode with intensive use, so buying it will simply be irrational. Of course, the maximum performance was reflected in the engine power and the size of the tool, and, accordingly, in its price. However, you should not save if you are going to work with a grinder for more than 20 hours a month. It is these figures that you should focus on when buying a household grinder. It has smaller dimensions and a smaller set of additional functions. After every 10-20 minutes of work, it is worth giving the tool a rest for 15-20 minutes, otherwise it is fraught with overheating and breakage. Do not use the tool for more than two to three hours a day. As a result, only compactness and low price can be attributed to the pluses. However, for work in the country or at home, this tool will fit perfectly, so you should not spend extra money on a professional unit.
If you need to sand a lacquered surface, then you should set the tool to the lowest possible speed, as the lacquered coating is sensitive to high temperatures. Need to keep an eye on temperature regime and regularly allow the surface to “cool down” after each sanding step. In order not to create unnecessary friction, it is worth using clean abrasives and not pressing hard on the tool.
If you need to sand plastic, it is best to use an eccentric or orbital sander. Again, you need to set the minimum speed of the tool. The grain size of the skin should be more than 240.
Similar types of machines should be used if you need to grind metal surface. However, the grain size should already be more than 600. To grind the bumps, you will have to use a grinder. If finer processing of the material is necessary, then it is worth considering the use of fiber or fan discs.
The belt grinder must first be turned on, and only then brought to the surface that needs to be processed. Otherwise, the tool may be thrown away from the workpiece at high speed (up to 25 km/h). When sanding, do not press hard on the machine. Normal surface contact is sufficient for an efficient sanding process. With strong pressure, material will be removed in an increased volume, however, this will affect the quality of grinding.
Photo: bosch-online.ru
When working with a grinder, be sure to use safety glasses. These grinders are the most traumatic. In order for the tool to work stably, regularly remove dust from the cavities of the grinder. This can be done by blowing and tapping the case. Avoid overload. In this case, the operational life of the tool will be maximum. The ends of the material being processed must not bite the cutting disc, otherwise its service life will not be long. To avoid this, it is necessary to ensure constant pressure on the grinder. At the same time, you should not make very deep cuts in one go, as this increases the load on the motor at times, which can cause damage even to a professional angle grinder.
On the farm, you often have to grind something, clean off the old paintwork. Most of all work with wood. Few manufacturers sell perfect products. Except a carpenter. And if there are perfectly processed boards, then their price is such that you involuntarily want to grind them yourself. Even taking into account the fact that the work is boring and uninteresting. Therefore, a wood grinder is one of the tools that should be in the home arsenal.
Types, purpose, features of work
There is different types grinders that perform the same type of work, but with different results. There is a tool for rough (preliminary), medium (intermediate) and fine (finish) grinding. Part of the tool can even perform.
To choose a wood sander, you first need to decide what type of work you need it for. For rough grinding - smoothing out irregularities, differences in height - one type is suitable, for finishing grinding - bringing to the ideal - another type. Moreover, both tasks can be solved using different types of equipment.
angle grinder
The well-known grinder can also be used for grinding wood. With the function of rough grinding, it copes well. Of all the possible tools, this one is the most productive. If you need to quickly level large wooden surfaces - grinding the floor, walls, log cabins - this is work for the angle grinder. Minus - the surface is very uneven, it takes a long time to level all the pits and humps. If it still “passes” on a log house, then for any carpentry work the result is unsatisfactory. If only it is possible to purchase another tool, it is not worth using an angle grinder for grinding wood.
For wood, red emery circles are used - this is a special abrasive
For the Bulgarian special nozzles for wood sanding. The best option- petal or plate-shaped circles with sandpaper of different grain sizes. When they are installed, the working plane is below the protective cover, it is safe to work, you can move in any direction. It is necessary to carefully handle places with protruding heads of nails and self-tapping screws. We lower the tool from above, carefully move it. A sharp movement easily breaks the grinding wheel, so be careful.
By changing the grain size of the grinding wheels used, it is possible to carry out coarse and medium (intermediate) grinding. The work will take less time than if any other wood sander is used. But it may take more time to bring to a flat surface, since, with a lack of experience, there will be more flaws.
When sanding wood, the sandpaper is clogged, the speed of work is reduced. In addition to slowing down, there is another sign - the smell of burnt wood. It is not necessary to immediately change the disk, you can restore its performance. To do this, grind the metal for several seconds. Everything stuck - resin, wood fibers, dust - burns out, the surface is cleaned, the processing speed increases again. This trick, by the way, can be used with other grinders.
If you often have to clean and change circles, a Velcro nozzle is installed on the grinder. Replacing the sandpaper is much easier and faster - peeled off / stuck - a matter of seconds. But working with a nozzle is more dangerous. Due to its height, the grinding area is above the level of the protective cover; it does not fulfill its functions. During the start, it happens that an unreliably fixed circle or even the nozzle itself flies off. They have a small weight, injuries are not serious, but it's still an injury. An angle grinder with a smooth start helps to reduce risks, but all the same, you need to work with gloves, protective clothing with tightly buttoned sleeves, boots that cover your legs, and goggles.
Belt sander
It is called so due to the fact that the sandpaper has the form of a tape, continuously moving with the help of rollers. Therefore, such a wood grinder is also called "endless".
A wood belt sander is designed for rough and intermediate surface leveling. By setting sandpaper with a finer grit, you can achieve a medium finish. This is enough for joinery that does not go under painting. To bring it to perfect condition, you need a different type of wood grinder. Moreover, to eliminate long longitudinal scratches, you will have to carry out stepped grinding, changing the grain size several times - the scratches remain deep.
A belt sander is good if you need to remove the old coating - paint varnish
What is the advantage of a wood belt sander? It has good performance. The tape on it is installed in such a way that it turns out to be sanded close to the wall with one side. What are its shortcomings? Due to the design, not all points can be "reached". For example, corners, shaped recesses, grooves and other small details. It is not always possible to “crawl” between two parts (when processing railings, for example). Another disadvantage is most of belt grinders has a solid mass, it is difficult to work with them on weight, sanding vertical surfaces. But on a horizontal plane - they are the most productive.
The following disadvantages are high level noise, not the biggest sanding spot. It is so noisy that it is extremely uncomfortable to work without headphones. Why a small spot of polishing, because in appearance it is quite large? Even with a large belt width, it only sands in the center - the front and back part is not used due to the fact that it is raised to feed the rollers.
There is a belt sander for wood features in the work. To reduce the depth of the furrows that it leaves, it must be driven along the fibers. Then finishing polishing takes less time. And one more thing - if you gape in the process of work and leave the machine in one place for a long time, a solid “pit” is formed. Despite this, it is the most productive wood sander that is often used.
Orbital (eccentric)
The orbital sander for wood has a round sole with Velcro, on which sandpaper discs are attached. The discs are the same as for the grinder, so they are interchangeable. There are holes in the sole of the machine to remove dust. Dust is collected in a bag, container cassette type, almost all models allow you to connect a construction vacuum cleaner.
The work of an eccentric wood sander is based on the simultaneous rotation and movement back and forth (reciprocating movements). This achieves a fairly good speed for intermediate and finishing wood processing. When working with a grinder of this type, the platform moves in a spiral or orbit. Therefore, this tool is also called orbital sanders.
Eccentric sanders are good for processing curved or profiled surfaces - the machine is small in weight, it makes little noise, it is easy to control, the angle of the disk can reach recesses, cutouts, etc. With all this, it also handles large planes at a good pace. When using coarse grit sandpaper, it can be used for both coarse and intermediate sanding. The speed is less than that of the tape, but also quite acceptable. There are such machines with different radius of movement (eccentricity) - from 3 to 8 mm. By selecting this parameter, the main purpose is determined (more on this below).
The disadvantages of this type of machine are the impossibility of processing in the corners. The round platform is simply not included. Also - there is an area of uncertain grinding along the edges - it will not be possible to grind close to a wall or a vertical surface.
Vibrating
The sole of a vibratory grinder can be rectangular or triangular. During operation, it makes circular movements with a small amplitude - it vibrates, which gave the name to this type of equipment. This wood sander is used for fine finish- for varnishing or painting, but has a low performance.
A vibratory wood sander with a rectangular surface allows you to process large areas, but with its help it is not possible to grind wood near vertical planes and walls - it starts to beat against an obstacle. Triangular in this regard is more suitable for working in corners and hard-to-reach places, but you still can’t bring it tightly to the wall.
Another disadvantage of vibrators is the so-called "lambs". If a grain of sand or other solid fragment gets under the surface, it leaves small circles on the wood - “lambs”. It is difficult to remove these traces. You have to use sandpaper of progressively smaller grit, gradually removing scratches. But if in the process something gets under the sole again, the process repeats again. Therefore, before work, the surface is thoroughly cleaned and a plyos is usually connected - for quick and timely removal of foreign fragments.
Oscillation
Strictly speaking, this is not a grinder, but you can grind with it. Moreover, those places that are not available for other types of machines are corners (even sharp ones), places directly at vertical walls. For grinding, a triangular platform of a special shape is installed on the tool, on which sandpaper on a self-adhesive basis is fixed.
During operation, the platform moves in a horizontal plane with a very small amplitude - the vertices of the triangle deviate by about 1.7 ° (this is an average of 2.5 mm). Due to this small movement, polishing occurs. Such a machine can be sanded in corners and close to vertical surfaces. Moreover, you can remove not only wood, but also smeared and dried glue. In general, an oscillation machine is used for finishing grinding in hard-to-reach places - due to low productivity and a grinding spot, it is unrealistic to process more or less large surfaces with it.
What type of grinder to choose
Summing up, we can say that for housework and construction, ideally, two grinders are needed - for rough and fine finishing. The most commonly used pair is tape + eccentric. If you are planning to start making furniture, then you cannot do without an oscillatory one.
If you do not like the result of the belt sander, you can purchase two orbital sanders with different eccentricities. For rough grinding, a tool with an eccentricity of 6-8 mm is suitable, for finishing grinding and even polishing - 2-4 mm. The only downside to this solution is that good eccentric sanders are expensive.
If the budget is limited, and the farm has a grinder (angle grinder), rough grinding can be done with it, and for intermediate or finishing, use orbital or vibration. Just keep in mind that vibration is the least productive, albeit the cheapest. If possible, buy an orbital one - it is more versatile and gives better results.
Technical Selection Criteria
Any tool is divided into classes that differ in working resource (and price). So a wood grinder can be household or professional. Household are designed for short continuous work with interruptions. Basically, it is recommended to work no more than 3 hours a day, periodically taking breaks of 15 minutes.
Professional models are designed to work for 8-12 hours, breaks are rarely needed or not needed at all. The working resource of such a tool is many times greater. For this, durable and reliable (read - expensive) materials are used. In addition, the performance of such equipment is much higher, as a rule, there is more adjustments.
When choosing, the first thing to decide is what class your car should be. I must say that some manufacturers have a good household class, and some also have semi-professional lines. This is an intermediate class, as a rule, for private use it is optimal in terms of price / quality combination. Some models are used even by professionals.
General selection options
Although wood sanders are different, there are general points that you need to pay attention to when choosing. Here they are:
These are the general points that you need to pay attention to. Now about what is important for different types of grinders.
Tape
When choosing a belt sander, you need to look at the following parameters:
You also need to pay attention to how convenient it is to change the tape. There are also models that allow you to quickly change the brushes. Sometimes spare brushes are even included.
Popular models of belt grinders
Manufacturer | Model | Power | Tape dimensions (width/length) | Belt speed | The weight | Price |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Interskol | LShM-76/900 | 900 W | 76 mm / 533 mm | 250 m/min | 3.2 kg | 55-90 $ |
Makita | 9911 | 650 W | 76 mm / 457 mm | 270 m/min | 2.6 kg | 100-150$ |
Bosch | PBS 75AE | 750 W | 75 mm / 533 mm | 350 m/min | 3.5 kg | 120-160$ |
Interskol | LShM-100/1200E | 1200 W | 100 mm / 610 mm | 400 m/min | 5.6 kg | 100-150$ |
Makita | 9404 | 1010 W | 100 mm / 610 mm | 440 m/min | 4.7 kg | 200-270$ |
Eccentric (orbital)
In addition to all the general parameters described, there are some nuances in choosing an eccentric wood sanding machine:
The selected model still needs to be tested in the store. To do this, install a disc of sandpaper on the platform and turn on the tool. Vibration should not be felt at all. This means that it is well balanced and will work comfortably.
Popular Random Orbital Sanders
Manufacturer | Model | Power | Disc speed | Platform Oscillation Frequency | Disk size | Platform travel (eccentricity) | Price |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Makita | BO5031 | 300 W | 12000 rpm | 24000 counts/min | 125 mm | 2.8mm | 90-120 $ |
Makita | BO5041 | 300 W | 12000 rpm | 24000 counts/min | 125 mm | 3 mm | 100-200$ |
Metabo | SXE450 TurboTec | 350 W | 13100 rpm | 8500 rpm | 150 mm | 6.2mm | 185-220$ |
Bosch | GEX 150 AC | 340 W | 12000 rpm | 24000 counts/min | 150 mm | 4 mm | 175-220$ |
Bosch | GEX 125-1AE Box | 250 W | 12000 rpm | 24000 counts/min | 125 mm | 2.5mm | 70-90$ |
Vibrating
First of all, you need to choose the shape of the sole. It can be rectangular (most often), square or ironing. The system for attaching sandpaper here is clamping, just a piece of sandpaper of the right size is pulled and fixed with clamps. For normal operation of dust removal in stretched paper, holes must be made in the right places (holes in the platform). It is best to connect a vacuum cleaner to remove dust, since the presence of dust under the platform leads to the appearance a large number scratches. That is, instead of grinding, we get a damaged part. This is an important point.
What to look for:
The vibration grinder is used only for finishing grinding and is characterized by low productivity. Only paper with fine grain can be placed on it. Rough processing should be carried out with another tool.
Popular models of vibratory grinders
Manufacturer | Model | Power | Platform Oscillation Frequency | Tape (sole) dimensions | Platform stroke | Price |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Interskol | PShM-115/300E | 300 W | 10500 counts/min | 230x115mm | 35-50$ | |
Makita | BO3711 | 190 W | 22000 counts/min | 228x93mm | 2 mm | 60-75$ |
Makita | BO3700 | 180 W | 20000 counts/min | 230x93mm | 2 mm | 50-60$ |
Bosch | PSS 200AC | 200 W | 24000 counts/min | 230x93mm | 2 mm | 50-70$ |
Hitachi | SV12V | 300 W | 20000 counts/min | 228x114mm | 2.4 mm | 100-130$ |