Orbital or eccentric sander, which is better?

Kinds

ESMs are classified according to several criteria:

• machines with which you can work on wood or metal;
• ESMs that operate from an electrical network or from batteries;
• professional models and devices for household needs;
• miniature units with speed control and large pneumatic ESM.

ESMs are capable of making surfaces perfectly smooth. The quality of the “orbital” is achieved through the translational-rotational movement of the canvas itself. At high speeds (more than 10,000 thousand per minute), a large amount of energy is generated, which is transmitted into vibration. It is transformed into a force impulse, thanks to which the polishing process occurs. The eccentric needs a counterweight, which is necessary to smooth out excess vibration.

Let's look at the most popular ESM manufacturers.

• produces inexpensive and compact units.
• Bosch produces high-power (more than 650 watt) and medium-power models. The company's products are of good quality and have many different additional options (rotation adjustment, speed, etc.). This type of equipment is most often purchased by professionals. It is quite expensive, but is very reliable and also has a long service life.
• The quality of EShMs is not inferior to German units from Bosch. The devices are ideal for use in service stations and garages. The dust removal system is especially effective on the models. Each model has its own design features. Some ESMs are equipped with a speed controller (up to 6 positions).

Now let's look at some of the distinctive details and functions of the devices.

• “Orbitals” for professionals are equipped with special relays that control a constant rotation speed during operation. In this case, the torque automatically switches to afterburner mode, and the engine's reserve power is used.
• The starting current limiting block is used for several reasons: when it is necessary to reduce the load, and also to avoid noise when the engine starts. This device is found exclusively on professional models.
• Adjusting the sole brake is necessary for quick stopping.
• 90% of ESHs have a socket that allows you to connect a vacuum cleaner (sometimes the vacuum cleaner is replaced by a special container made of a PVC bag or paper bag).
• Professional tools are often equipped with a casing around the eccentric assembly.
• The D-lever allows you to work more comfortably.
• A switch with a lock is most often found in expensive professional models.

Also, the EShM cannot be installed permanently. This is usually necessary when you need to work with small-format products. If there are voluminous depressions or depressions on the workpiece, then the ESM will not penetrate there; there is also the possibility of damage to the edges by the rotating element of the machine.

4.5.2.7 Briefly about manufacturers

There are more than fifty models of orbital machines on the modern market. Popular brands include:

Metabo. Among these products are small-sized and cheap eccentric machines.

Bosch. A wide range of high-quality models, mainly medium and high (over 600 W) power, medium in size. The majority of models are equipped with useful options (idle speed brake system, speed control and eccentric stroke adjustment). The price sector is above average.

Makita. A large selection of models that are suitable both for work in the garage and also for specialized workshops. They are equipped with a good dust removal system and have adjustable disk speed and eccentric stroke. Some models have an additional removable handle.

Tips for choosing

Most inexperienced people do not know how to choose the right eccentric sander

Experts recommend paying attention to the following characteristics:

• Power: the higher this indicator, the greater the performance and range of application of the device. If there is insufficient power, the tool will not be able to process rough surfaces of parts. The value of this characteristic takes values ​​in the range from 165 to 950 W.
• Vibration: this indicator affects the grinding accuracy and the difficulty of balancing the device during operation. Occurs as a result of uneven distribution of mass over the surface;
• Rotation frequency: the speed of movement of the working disk and the number of vibrations produced per revolution depend on this parameter. In the basic configuration of the grinder, the frequency is adjusted depending on the thinness of the surface being processed.
• Movement amplitude: the smaller this indicator, the faster the grinding. When processing thin parts, it is necessary to purchase a tool with an amplitude of 2-3 mm. For polishing large parts, the value of this characteristic increases to 4-7 mm. With a large amplitude, the vibration intensity increases and the grinding accuracy decreases.
• The diameter of the working sole: the performance of an eccentric sander directly depends on this parameter. To operate a sole with a large diameter, a powerful electric motor is needed.
• Weight: affects the ease of sanding. Lightweight devices are more comfortable to hold in your hands without a supporting surface. But heavy tools are less susceptible to vibration.
• Dust removal: if the surface of the orbital sander is not cleaned of dust and dirt in a timely manner, the grinding mechanisms may become deformed, leaving scratches on the surface of the workpiece.

The stores offer eccentric sanders from the following manufacturers:

• Metabo: tools from this company are distinguished by high power levels. The grinding machine disc makes up to 11,000 revolutions per minute. Its vibration amplitude is 2.7 mm. The working diameter of Metabo devices is no more than 125 mm. The average weight of sanders is 1.4 kg. The electric motor is powered from the mains. For connection to an outlet, a 2.9 m long cord is included with the tool.
• Bosch: orbital sanders from this company have an ergonomic rotary handle and a fan that cools the motor structure. Bosch tools develop from 7,000 rpm. The average weight of the devices is 2 kg. The diameter of the working disk is 125 mm. The amplitude of movement of the sole is 5 mm.
• Dewalt: Random orbital sanders from this corporation have discs that are firmly stabilized and balanced, which prevents the spread of vibration. The vibration amplitude of the working sole is 2.4 mm. The maximum number of disc revolutions per minute is 12,000. The average weight of Dewalt grinders is 1.5 kg. The power consumption of most models is 280 W.
• Makita: devices from this company have rotating handles and a body with rubber elements. They are equipped with mechanisms to protect against dust and dirt, but do not have a soft start function. The power of Makita grinders is 300 W. The working diameter of the disk is 125 mm. The average weight of the structure is 1.4 kg.

When choosing an eccentric grinder, it is important to pay attention to the price of the tool. The average cost of grinding devices ranges from 6,800 to 10,000 rubles

Additional functionality

It is more correct to say not “Which eccentric sander is better?”, but “What additional features and accessories does a particular user need?” Their presence makes work more convenient and enjoyable.

When you do not plan to use the machine regularly, you can buy a device at a lower cost without functional additions. But people who constantly work with the unit should take a closer look at more efficient models equipped with various auxiliary devices:

• speed regulation;
• another handle;
• an adapter to connect a vacuum cleaner while sanding;
• the ability to limit the starting current.

Now let's look at the above points in more detail.

Speed ​​adjustment

By adjusting the speed, you can select the required quality and delicacy of processing. For grinding materials of varying hardness, it is possible to select the most suitable rotation speed and change it if necessary. As a rule, machines used for fine grinding are equipped with this capability. Powerful high-speed devices do not require such a device.

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Second handle

ESMs that are small in size and do not have much power are equipped with one handle. Many people also hold the instrument by the body. More powerful and larger orbital machines, like the Makita BO6050J, have a second handle. It either continues the first one, or is located in the front part of the body. They produce models with the ability to remove the handle, and non-removable options.

Connection to a vacuum cleaner

Working with a grinder is not complete without generating large amounts of dust and waste. Equipping the tool with an adapter through which you can connect a vacuum cleaner greatly simplifies the dust removal process. Working with the device becomes much more comfortable.

Working without a vacuum cleaner can not only damage the unit. Such actions are unsafe for human health. Another plus is that using a connected vacuum cleaner will save time on subsequent cleaning.

Starting current limitation

A practical and important device will help set a limit on the starting current and thus protect the tool from failure. If possible, it is better to give preference to such models.

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If you need an eccentric grinder (for example, VERTO 51G750), a comparison of characteristics and an understanding of the features of each model will help the buyer choose. To make the best choice, you need to clearly decide on:

1. Scope of application and conditions of use of such a tool;
2. Regularity of work;
3. The required main parameters - amplitude, power, type, etc.;
4. The need for the presence of certain options - a second handle, speed control, etc.;
5. Purchasing budget.

This will make it possible to select the parameters you need without overpaying for unused functionality.

Types of wood sanding machines

Unfortunately, there are practically no universal tools that can help a carpenter in any situation. When processing workpieces with complex configurations, it is necessary to select a separate device for each specific operation. In the simplest cases, even a grinder with an attachment can help out the master. If you are seriously involved in the production of wood products, then you need to be able to understand the intricacies of operation and the design of wood sanding machines of different models.

Types of wood sanders:

1. Belt sanding machine.
2. Vibrating tool.
3. Brush hand sander for wood.
4. Renovators are tools with increased functionality and a variety of attachments for polishing, cleaning, trimming, creating slots and grinding.
5. Eccentric sander.

https://youtube.com/watch?v=lskOa3k36go%250D

Belt sander for wood

These practical devices have a rectangular surface and work on the principle of a plane. A belt sander is most often used in the initial stages: stripping old paintwork and primary processing of the board. The tool is equipped with a pipe for removing debris, to which a bag is attached or a vacuum cleaner is connected. The tape is fixed on the sole; when turned on, it begins to rotate at the speed set by the master.

Brush sander for wood

In functional tools of this type, the working part is not abrasive paper, but a coarse metal brush. It is used to prepare furniture facades at the initial stages of renovation, remove unnecessary coating, and treat large areas (parquet, plank flooring). The device is not suitable for fine polishing. A brush sander is often used by manufacturers of retro items to age wood.

Vibratory wood sander

Polishing or grinding on this convenient hand-held equipment is carried out using abrasive paper attached to a flat work pad. When turned on, the working tool produces reciprocating oscillations with a frequency of up to 25,000 rpm. The working amplitude is up to 5 mm and is selected by the carpenter depending on the type of processing. For example, when fine polishing, a vibrating grinder operates with an amplitude of 1.5-3 mm. The power of grinders of this type is 150-600 W.

Random orbital sander for wood

The orbital trajectory of the working tool allows for more delicate operations compared to tape devices. The eccentric wood sander has a round base for attaching removable discs with different grain sizes or felt wheels with a diameter of up to 150 mm. The speed reaches 13,000 rpm. The power of eccentric devices is up to 650 W, the oscillation speed is 24,000. The devices are equipped with debris and dust removal through holes in the working sole.

Angle grinder for wood

The second name for such devices is delta sanders. They work on the vibration principle, but have functional features. The triangular shape of the working part resembles the soleplate of a household iron and allows you to process hard-to-reach “dead zones” that always form when working with a rectangular or round nozzle. An angle grinder has a low speed, but allows for high-quality polishing. Small triangular attachments are used on renovators to machine small protrusions, corners and recesses.

The device of an eccentric grinder

In order for the orbital sander to work without failure, the owner must know how it works. The following main elements can be distinguished in the design of this instrument:

• engine;
• dust collector;
• working sole.

This equipment also has a regulator with which you can adjust the speed. There is a start button on the handle of the device.

This tool is equipped with a switch for changing the stroke of the eccentric, which is located next to the dust collector. When the engine is started, the sole begins to rotate around its axis. It is placed with a slight offset relative to the center, which allows the vibration grinder to cope with the task faster.

How to use a sander correctly

Features of using a belt sander

A belt sander is best suited for processing large, flat surfaces.

First of all, you need to put on the tape. The easiest way to do this is when the car is lying on its side. Having first snapped off the fastener, put on the tape, taking into account the direction of movement - indicated by the arrow both on the tape and on the rollers of the machine. This is necessary so that the seam on the tape is positioned correctly. Otherwise, the tape may either break or damage the surface instead of sanding. After this, snap the fastener into place.

The belt in the machine always moves in one direction, so you also need to work in one direction with the tool - pressing it tightly to the surface, moving it towards you. The wood must be processed along the grain with a belt sander. Otherwise, deep furrows may appear. There is no need to press unnecessarily on an already heavy tool - instead of increasing productivity, you can overheat and thereby damage the tape.

To expand the functionality of the belt sander, you can use a frame, stationary mounts (vices), and corner stops. It is the band tool that can be fixed permanently with a vice and moved not by it, but by the surface being processed (for example, a board, a block). This type of tool mount is especially important for grinding small parts. Also, when the machine is stationary, it is very convenient to sharpen notches and curves.

Another way to use the belt tool is when the machine is lying on its side. Its advantage is that in this position a right angle is formed.

Video: how to use an eccentric (orbital) machine

When preparing the machine, you need to pay attention to how dusty the job is expected to be. And if there may be a lot of dust, it is better to connect the vacuum cleaner right away, fortunately many models have this option. The work is relatively clean - a dust collector will do

A respirator will keep you healthy

The work is relatively clean - a dust collector will do. A respirator will help you stay healthy.

Important! During operation, you need to periodically check the dust container and prevent it from overflowing. Otherwise, dust will come out from all the holes. The abrasive disc is attached to the round platform of the machine with Velcro - you simply apply it and press it with your hand

You just need to make sure that the holes on the disk coincide with the dust holes on the platform

The abrasive disc is attached to the round platform of the machine with Velcro - you simply apply it and press it with your hand. You just need to make sure that the holes on the disk coincide with the dust removal holes on the platform.

When processing a plane with a machine, you need to press the platform tightly against it. You need to hold the machine level so that the platform is not pressed against the surface by the edge - otherwise there is a risk of damaging the surface with scars. In order not to remove excess, this is especially true during body work, it is better to check the surface more often with your palm for roughness.

As you work, check the dust content of the nozzle, change it on time so that the work does not go in vain when the grain is “clogged” and the roughness is no longer torn off.

Video: how to use an eccentric sander for body work

There are many ways to use grinding machines. This includes preparing for painting the body, treating floors, sanding wooden parts (even children's toys), and even polishing. The result of work, of course, depends on the skill and perfection of a person’s skills

But no less important is the quality of the tool, as well as how correctly it is selected and used correctly.

Good luck with your work!

Additional functions and features

Modern power tools are filled to capacity with all sorts of electronic systems.
Their main function is to protect the mechanical part of the device and make working with it as comfortable as possible. For example, the electronic system maintains constant rotation speed, regardless of the engine load. This improves the quality of work and protects the electric motor from damage. Almost all professional ESMs are equipped with this function.

The inrush current limiting system protects the network from sudden voltage surges and eliminates the possibility of the so-called “inrush”, when the tool tries to jump out of your hands.

The automatic sole brake will protect the operator and the surface being processed from accidental contact with the switched off grinder, the wheel of which continues to rotate by inertia.

In addition to electronic gadgets, an orbital sander, as a rule, has on board a connection for connecting an industrial vacuum cleaner.

Pay attention to how the eccentric mechanism housing and the sanding pad are made. If they are metal, you are in luck - this model is more durable and better protected from overheating.

The detachable power cable can be easily replaced if damaged. To do this, you do not have to disassemble the tool, voiding the warranty.

Optional, but pleasant little things like a lockable switch, adjustable additional handles and rubber pads on the body complement the look of the tool and add a little more comfort when working with it.

Tips for use

When using an orbital sander for work in workshops and furniture shops, users must follow a number of rules for the operation and safety of this equipment:

• do not use power tools in explosive areas;
• Do not expose the instrument to wet conditions or rain, as water may damage the instrument itself;
• handle the power cord carefully;
• carefully attach the dust collector to the tool;
• before plugging the product into the outlet, you need to check the “On/Off” power button, which should be in the “Off” state;
• when working with a grinder, it is necessary to maintain a secure balance;
• When working with the device, you must use safety glasses, a respirator, safety boots, headphones or a hard hat;

• the user must treat the tool well; it is strictly forbidden to use worn or torn sheets of sanding paper;
• for ease of use, the device has an additional handle; you need to keep the handles of the device clean and dry;
• Clean the orbital sander regularly every time after use;
• Keep power tools away from children and people untrained in operating the device.

In the next video you will find a review and test of the Makita BO5041K orbital sander.

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What is a random orbital sander?

The difference from other similar devices is the design with eccentrics. It allows the round plate with the grinding disc placed on it to move not only in a circle, but also to move to the sides. Thanks to the simultaneous movements in a circle, to the side and back, it is possible to polish the surface perfectly smoothly.

The polishing trajectory imitates the movement of space objects around the stars, which is why such a machine is also called an orbital machine. Its design features improve the quality of polishing. This is especially evident when working with protruding areas and parts that have a complex structure with bends and other irregularities. Machines such as the Bosch PSM 10.8 Li are better suited for delicate, finishing sanding.

No. 3 - Bosch GEX 150 Turbo

Price: 26,820 rubles. The second creation of the Germans from Bosch and the third place in the rating is the GEX 150 Turbo grinder. Its main advantage is the power of 600 W, which, together with a rotation speed of up to 6650 rpm, ensures efficient and high-quality grinding of various materials. There is a dust collector to which you can connect a vacuum cleaner and get rid of dust as you work. Bosch GEX 150 Turbo is one of the most powerful and productive grinders. Yes, not the lightest, but the weight plays into its favor, so together with the anti-vibration system, shaking is reduced to nothing. Yes, not the quietest, but quite ergonomic, pleasant to use, and most importantly - durable.

Bosch GEX 150 Turbo

Voting for the best random orbital sander

Which random orbital sander would you choose or recommend?

AEG BEX 18-125 Li-402C

8.57 % ( 3 )

BOSCH GEX 150 AC

14.29 % ( 5 )

Metabo SXE 3150

17.14 % ( 6 )

Makita BO5040

28.57 % ( 10 )

AEG EX 125 ES

5.71 % ( 2 )

SPARKY EX 125E

2.86 % ( 1 )

BOSCH AdvancedOrbit 18 0

5.71 % ( 2 )

Greenworks G24ROS 0

0.00 % ( 0 )

Patriot OS 150

2.86 % ( 1 )

Wortex RS 1250 AE

0.00 % ( 0 )

Hyundai O 350

8.57 % ( 3 )

Hammer OSM260 Patriot OS 150

5.71 % ( 2 )