How to Use a Random-Orbital Sander

Wooden projects always need sanding tools to produce high-quality outcomes. Out of all the necessary accessories, a random orbital sander proves very essential. Learn plenty of tips for its proper use.

How a Random Orbital Sander Functions

The sanding pad inside a random orbital sander rotates in an ovular or elliptical direction. It is not a whole circle motion. There is a bit of deviation from it. Observe the pad moving on an axis plus in an orbit causes the sanding appearance in random form. That is how the sander got the name. As compared to the regular style, the random form can take away more material. At the same time, there are less noticeable marks of cross-grain scratching or swirling on the surface.

12 Tips in Using This Sanding Tool

Wear Proper Attire

Accidents or injuries may arise while handling a random orbital sander. These scenarios want proper attire for prevention. Cover the nose until the mouth with a tight mask. This is important since inhaling the smell of the dust is possible. Beyond the mask is also necessary to wear goggles. The purpose is eye protection also against dust.

When clothing has a loose fit, it is best to pull it back. Keep jewelry aside for safekeeping first. Movement on the arm can distract while sanding. Long hair may look cool but this activity desires it in a band.

In choosing among random orbital sanders, the best ones have built-in systems to extract dust. Despite this feature, the face still needs more protection. There is a limit to the accumulation of dust. When particles breach capacity, this tool can decrease efficiency. Maintain suitable use by attaching a shop vac. In this way, minimize the overflow of dust which can stop sanding.

Put Suitable Pressure

Put Suitable Pressure

No matter the experience in sanding with this tool, the tendency remains in exerting more pressure than necessary. The least visualized scenario is for it to go all over the surface without control. Maintain good motor condition and decrease long-term trouble for it. Varied techniques for sanding are efficient with adequate pressure. Likewise, too much effort in pressing the tool causes imbalance on the surface.

Frequent Replacement of Sanding Discs

The best sanding outcome comes from the pad. A random orbital sander has a more expensive piece than the regular type. But keeping the same pad for different projects leads to a less satisfactory outcome. Experts say to keep replacing the sanding discs. Despite doing this for other projects, it is suitable to keep used ones. They are handy for edges and corners.

Appropriate Sanding Discs

Appropriate Sanding Discs

Satisfactory sanding with this tool is based on the choice of disc. Grits on sandpaper belong to 19 types. A random orbital sander wants beyond low to mid-200s. In comparing sandpaper with 40-grit and 200-grit, a huge difference exists! Depending on the grit, the surface shows a different finish. In touching more roughness, it only calls for initial sanding.

Familiarize yourself with the Disc

Since different forms of sanding discs exist, remember to put the right one. An electric style can do most of the activity. As for abrasive, it decides on clearing up the material from the surface.

The random orbital sander craves appropriate sandpaper grit. When the disc is wrong, expect trouble while sanding. In choosing grit, it is important to familiarize yourself with the correct number. Fortunately, this tool makes sanding easy as long as there is proper use.

Speed is Just Right

The purpose of this sander is to quicken sanding! Control it with the variable sanding speed for the particles to look balanced on the surface. Ruining the wooden surface by losing control is the least desirable scenario. They recommend a pace that is slow yet steady. But this still relies on the sandpaper grit. When it is finer, the pace has to be slower. Softer wood wants a rougher grit.

A very quick way of sanding can cause harm to the wooden surface. Marks can exist which defeat the purpose of this tool.

Maintain a Flat Position

By using a random orbital sander, observe a give on the base. This feature is suitable for uneven surfaces. It increases more safety during the activity. But together with the circular appearance of a surface, encourages sanding from the edge. Only advanced-level woodworkers can do this well. Those who are beginners and with intermediate levels can use another tool.

The Hands Handle It Last

The Hands Handle It Last

Despite the capabilities of this type of sander, there are also plenty of tasks not for it. Edges and corners of a wooden surface it handles can round them off in only a matter of seconds. Likewise, the circular pad can create trouble in the interior edges and corners. A woodworker’s hands are necessary for the last touch. The surface looks better with this action by focusing on overlooked spots.

Plenty of Practice

In handling a random orbital sander, it takes a lot of practice to improve the skill on a surface. The slow movement is best like an inch for a part. Follow the grain direction in moving it.

Sand the Edges

Sand the Edges

It is alright for this tool to reach near the edges of the surface. Doing this makes a more presentable sanding-like at the center. No matter the skill with this type of sander, this technique is crucial. But as with handling any tool, give it proper care. Hold it well to stay in place with the hands. Prevent the sanding pad from reaching beyond the edge. At the most, the allowed distance is only one-fourth.

Surface Stays Secure

Experience the convenience and ease of this type of tool when the surface is stable. Sanding needs to remain in place on a flat surface. As the need arises, put clamps to prevent unnecessary movement. A successful sanding relies on a stationary surface.

From all of these tips, woodworkers have to give them attention in creating a proper sanded surface. Doing them for projects can make a great difference! Get hold of a random orbital sander.

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Rishi Goratela
Rishi Goratela
Rishi Goratela has over 5 years of experience in SEO and blogging, which he uses to help bloggers and website owners increase their online visibility and traffic organically. He is an expert in creating content strategies, conducting keyword research, publishing blogs, and optimizing technical issues.

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