What is the best grinder eccentric or belt

How to choose a grinder? Overview of all kinds: eccentric, vibratory, belt and others

Grinding wood is difficult to call a pleasant procedure. Tiring, monotonous movements, dust, constant monitoring of the area to be mowed. none of these things add to the fun, especially when you have to do a lot of work. Grinders greatly simplify life in this matter.

Each type of grinder is designed for specific tasks: where one will show unsurpassed results, the other will be helpless. For example, eccentric grinders will not cope with the processing of internal angles, in contrast to their less advanced counterparts. vibrating models. In this article we will tell you about the main types of grinders. Explain the principle of their work, the scope of application and other nuances that will help determine what kind of grinder to buy for specific carpentry needs.

Immediately say that such options grinders, as abrasive attachments on the drill, screwdriver or angle grinder (angle grinder), we have left out of the brackets of our conversation. They are suitable for rough sanding surfaces, but will never give a normal result in the precise sanding of wooden surfaces.

Sanding wood. that’s responsible

Grinding can seem like a formality, but it is not. The responsibility factor is extremely high. Mistakes of grinding, imperceptible at first glance, immediately visible after the application of finishing, and gross errors can easily ruin the workpiece. Scuffed finish, burn marks on the edges, left pits and scratches, such defects are very difficult to correct, because of them often even have to send the workpiece to scrap.

Orbital (eccentric) grinders

Design features. Orbital or eccentric models are considered the most universal machines for sanding and polishing wood. The grinding tool is made up of a round base plate, onto which the grinding wheel is fastened by means of hook-and-loop fasteners. Sanding byproducts are diverted via dust extraction ducts, so that the surface remains clean, the work is well controlled, and the abrasive performance is high and durable.

Makita eccentric sander with dust collector

When mounting the grinding wheel, ensure that the holes on the grinding wheel are aligned with the holes on the machine’s soleplate. Otherwise the dust extraction process will be impaired.

operating principle. Grinding and polishing is carried out by a combination of eccentric (orbital rotation) and rotational (axial rotation) movements of the soleplate. The movement of the abrasive along such a complex orbit ensures more efficient grinding and reduces the number of abrasive flaws in the form of lugs.

The eccentricity of orbital machines is 3 to 8 mm on average.

Eccentricity is the coefficient of displacement of the sole axis with respect to the shaft axis. It is one of the basic characteristics of grinders. It determines the nature of the abrasive movements and, therefore, the quality of the grinding process.

Area of application. Coarse and fine sanding of large surfaces; intercoat finishing, polishing. This is a versatile type of tool that is suitable for both industrial use and at home.

Advantages. Grinds large surfaces lengthways and crossways; best finish; reduces the risk of grinding errors (burrs, countersinks, pits); minimal noise and vibration (quietest in its class).

Disadvantages. Not suitable for internal corner sanding. Ineffective on curved surfaces and narrow edges.

reviews of the best orbiters for woodworking

The machine is perfectly balanced and feels good in the hand. Rubberized body adds grip and dampens vibration. Very comfortable to grind with one hand. Catch yourself in the thought that there is no desire to change hands during long and monotonous work. Quiet and lightweight. High level of dust extraction: the waste goes completely into the standard dust bag with microfilter, there it is compacted and easily extracted; but for prolonged work it is better to connect it to a vacuum cleaner. No speed control, although it would be useful, because of its omnivorous nature (wood, metal, putty, lacquered surfaces).

Very compact eccentric sander. Amazing ratio of weight (1.3 kg) to power (240 W) and you actually get the declared watts in the output. The tool is very convenient to work with one hand, and the weight is not the only reason. The rubber coated mushroom-shaped handle provides a good grip and effectively damps vibrations. The center of gravity, displaced downwards, adds to the convenience in no small measure. Not good location of the power button seems to be very strange against the background of well thought-out ergonomics. The absence of possibility to connect a vacuum cleaner also raises questions; probably it is done for the sake of maneuverability, so that it would be convenient to work with one hand and get to hard-to-reach places, for example, when sanding furniture. The cord is pretty tough.

Nozzles can be changed quickly thanks to the Velcro strip. The Metabo FSX 200 has eight holes. It grinds mainly furniture, there were no complaints about the dust extraction. We can not say that the machine is completely silent, but the noise level does not tire even with prolonged operation. Comes with thick plastic case with smart compartments.

Powerful and inexpensive grinder. The manufacturer claims 550 watts and 13,000 rpm at maximum. The real output values are subjectively much more modest. But considering the price, and it is not bad for those looking for an inexpensive and powerful tool for a large amount of work, such as grinding floors, wooden walls, stairs, etc. д.

The machine is designed to work with two hands. Several grip options. The rubberized handle does not save you completely. the vibration in your hands is pretty good, so it is better to work with gloves on. There is a speed regulator: it looks flimsy, but in fact it’s hardy. It is possible to connect a vacuum cleaner and it is better to work with it, especially at maximum speed. It has a locking start button. very convenient for sanding large areas.

Sturm OS8155R. cheap and powerful sander for unpretentious works. At different speeds all the characteristics appear differently: at maximum speeds the claims to the tool are much more than at low speeds.

This model was included in our short review because of its low price, productivity and omnivorousness. Professionals probably find it a lot of things to criticize, but for household needs. it’s not a bad option. Power of the orbitalizer is 450 watts. Subjective experience says that the claimed performance is overestimated, but not by much. It has adjustable speed, the start button lock, the ability to connect a vacuum cleaner. Two-handed grip. It is difficult to work with one hand, because the machine vibrates a lot and can start bouncing (all depends on the speed). It’s better not to put too much hope on the standard vacuum cleaner: up to a third of the waste is past the bag. But the vacuum cleaner is great. The noise level is very good, as for a cheap machine. The sole is stiff.

How to choose a wood sander. tips

Sanding wood is a laborious process, which can be made much easier with the right tools. The best tools for woodworking are belt sanders, oscillating or eccentric sanders, and delta sanders.

The right choice of machine depends on the type of work to be performed and the characteristics of the workpiece: shape, size, sanding corners and hard-to-reach areas, type of coating, etc. д.

For individual jobs, different tools are better suited, namely:

  • A belt sander is best for sanding large and flat surfaces;
  • The eccentric sander enables convenient processing of convex and concave small wooden surfaces;
  • The oscillation model has a similar application, with the possibility to process corners thanks to the rectangular soleplate;
  • the delta sander is ideal for surfaces with complex shapes inaccessible to most sanders, while its small footprint is generally recommended for small wooden 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, 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 sanding machines can process large areas in a short period of time with excellent results. The machined surface is smooth and uniform. In addition, since belt sanders are mainly used for linear motion, they are ideal for sanding along wood fibers.

The disadvantage of belt sanders is the design of the base, which does not allow to reach hard-to-reach corners. The belt edge is not at the same time the edge of the sole plate, so surfaces, for example, near the wall, are inaccessible to this device. In this case, you will need a deltoid model.

Which belt sander to choose?

To choose the right belt sander, you should pay attention to the following parameters:

  • Speed of movement of the working part. the higher the speed, the faster and more accurate the surface is sanded. Depending on the model, the speed can vary from 200 to 420 rpm.
  • Belt size. this parameter influences the grinding speed and accuracy. But be careful! The larger the size, the faster the sanding, but at the same time its accuracy decreases.
  • Power. the higher the power, the better the tool processes hard and more complex surfaces, such as hard hardwood (oak) for example. High power allows the tool to work longer without overheating.

If we need a belt wood sander, how to choose the power correctly? Belt sanders with up to 1000 watts of motor power are mainly designed for light-duty applications, while those with more than 1400 watts of motor power will work fine for short-term, but heavy-duty work.

Model Overview

Below are some of the grinder models recommended by experts. The following key features are highlighted for each model.

1.Graphite 59G394 belt sander. The small diameter of the front roller (16 mm) and the additional handle with adjustable angle allows for easy sanding in hard to reach places.

2.The Makita 9920 is a powerful and professional belt sander with electronic speed control for optimal performance. You can sand the surface right up to the edge thanks to the automatic belt side adjustment.

Technical nuances

The first thing you have to deal with when buying a belt sander is realising that such machines are almost never all-purpose. So first find out which surfaces you want to use it for. Not every grinder will work equally well on concrete and wood. In order to find the right product for you, we have a filter for the selection of grinders by application in our catalog.

Power

The choice of machine power is straightforward: the higher it is, the more efficient the machine will be at pushing the surface.

Do not single out the input and output power of the appliance as the main selection criterion. Many manufacturers love to artificially inflate the power device, but it may not be important if the other characteristics of the grinder is quite weak. At this point, the choice rests on your budget, as well as your needs. If you’re going to work with the grinder often and you need to handle large surfaces, then choose the device more powerful. For household needs to chase the watts makes no sense, it will be enough the device with a capacity of up to 1000 watts.

Also on the power depends on the size of the nozzles on the device. The higher the power, the larger the work surface can be mounted on it.

The speed

Each grinder has a speed parameter. It indicates at what speed the spindle of the device rotates (if it is an angle or eccentric machine) or indicates the speed of the belt (for belt devices).

The speed is directly related to the power of the machine. If the power of the grinder is insufficient, it will only be reduced when the tool is pressed hard, as well as the efficiency of grinding in general. Good manufacturers can balance speed and power (based on the average person’s pressing power).

Belt speeds of 250 to 500 meters per minute are typical for belt devices. Note that with powerful devices at high speeds, you can ruin the surface if you press the machine too hard and overdo it in one place.

For tools with a rotating working part (angle and eccentric grinders), conscientious manufacturers indicate both the speed of rotation at idle speed and when working on surfaces. The latter is always lower due to pressure and increased friction. Hard materials are usually ground at high speed, softer materials require a more gentle approach, and polishing is also best done at low speed.

Better if the machine is equipped with a speed control system.

Oscillation frequency and eccentricity

This parameter applies to vibratory and eccentric grinders.

The armature rotating inside the device is intentionally offset from the center of gravity of the device, which makes it vibrate at a high speed. Vibrations are the reason for the grinding process. The higher the frequency of vibration of the device, the more effectively it will perform its task. The disadvantage is that due to the higher amplitude of movement, the processing will be somewhat rougher.

The concept of eccentricity shows us how big the radius of the conditional circle in which the grinding machine blade moves. is more effective, but again, rougher. For machines with a large number of eccentricity and a high frequency of vibration it is often recommended after the initial surface treatment to change the abrasive to a finer one and go over the material again.

Dimensions

The greater the length, width and diagonal of the working surface, the more productive the device. If you are going to work with large areas, choose a larger device, but do not forget about the power. The tool must be able to “pull” freely on the belt or disc required.

Batteries or mains

Grinders can run on both standard mains and rechargeable batteries. There are also combined units.

Just keep in mind that battery models are very mobile, but you have to charge them. And with corded machines, you have to carry an extension cord.

Additional Features

Like any other repair tool, grinders are often equipped with additional conveniences and electronics that simplify the work.

  • Power on lock. Devices of this type can cause various injuries, so manufacturers equip them with protection against accidental start-up.
  • Clip or velcro fastener. Abrasive material on some grinders, such as angle grinders, can be attached to the rotating plate with special clips or Velcro. Clamps are more reliable and are suitable for hard materials with sufficient pressure force when working. If you are grinding with light abrasives on surfaces which are not very hard or sticky, you can use the Velcro clips, which make abrasive changeover much quicker and easier.
  • Soft start. Eliminates the need for the unit to be started at full speed. This protects the surface from accidental scratches and is safer for you when working.
  • Speed and speed control. This feature is vital if you’re looking for a multi-tasker for use on hard surfaces.
  • Self-balancing disc. Used in angle grinders and eccentric grinders. Automatically levels tooling that rubs off over time in certain areas, causing weight and balance to change.
  • Safety guards and safety systems. Without this, you should definitely not start working with rotating tools.
  • Dust collectors and connection for a vacuum cleaner. Suitable for cases where the surface must be kept clean to control the quality of work and exclude the ingress of small grains of sand under the abrasive material. Will also reduce contamination of the environment when sanding.
  • Additional equipment. Many manufacturers complete with grinders offer a wide range of different tools and attachments. You can find the necessary ones with the help of the filter on our website.

How to choose an eccentric sander

A good tool saves the user time and effort. Each model is designed to work in specific conditions, withstands specific cyclic loads, so the choice of unit should be based on technical parameters.

Power

Power range from 165 to 1200 watts. It has a direct proportional effect on the performance of the tool. The higher the value, the more work the craftsman manages to do in a shorter period of time.

The most popular consider the unit with an indicator of 250. 750 watts. Low weight ensures ease of use, and their functionality is designed for a wide range of sanding tasks.

To the pluses of models with high power include the possibility of using rougher skins. They are chosen for roughing work.

Frequency and amplitude of oscillations

The base moves from one point to another in 1 revolution of the eccentric block, so the frequency of vibration and rotation are interrelated. The first value is 2 times higher than the second. On models with adjustable speed, it is from 8000 to 26000 vibrations per minute, in the absence of such a function. no more than 24000.

The value of the parameter is matched to the specific material and attachment. The smaller the abrasion of the sandpaper, the finer the sanding should be done. Therefore, the frequency of oscillations should be higher. For rough work, primary processing of the material, units with a low level of the parameter are recommended.

Movement amplitude of SSHM is 2-7 mm. Affects the performance, quality of grinding. The higher it is, the rougher the material is processed, but the work is faster.

Platform diameter

Foot size also defines tool productivity. The larger the abrasive area, the wider the area it covers. Grinding machines are available primarily with two sizes of grinding “plate” diameter. 125 and 150 mm, in rare cases there are models with indicators of 95 mm, 75 mm.

The latter are used when working with angle grinders. Units with soleplate size of 150 mm are attractive because of their ability to mount sandpaper, and they are referred to professional tools.

Operating conditions

Orbital machines are used for treatment of wooden, plastic and metal surfaces for final coating, polishing of lacquer. Household models with low-power motor and limited set of useful options are used for occasional works of short duration. Professional tools have an extended list of operations and adjustable technical parameters. It can be used for grinding, scraping and polishing of various materials.

For works in conditions of high dustiness, humidity or fire hazards models that have an increased level of protection of the tool in their passport are suitable. In the manual, the manufacturer should describe the peculiarities of using the machine. A good choice would be a pneumatic ESHM. It is used at production sites for processing ceilings, walls. The device has a minimum of dynamic components, it does not require a battery or electric drive, which makes it easy to use in all conditions.

Ergonomics

Efficiency and usability of the tool is determined not only by technical parameters, but also by a number of additional features of the machine. The speed control system allows you to configure the device to handle different hardnesses of materials. The soft start function increases the reliability of parts and components, reduces the risk of injury to the user and makes the machine more comfortable to use.

Automatic brake improves quality of work and reduces the risk of damage to the workpiece. A nozzle for connecting a vacuum cleaner guarantees the best safety for the health of the operator and a clean workplace. To reduce finger fatigue, the ESHM has a locking start button. At the same time in the domestic models, the function often malfunctions.

The features that ensure ease of use include also rubberized casing, anti-vibration system. Similar options provide a firm grip on the machine at high rotational speeds.

Makita BO6030

The body and ergonomics. The dimensions of the grinder are 173×194 mm and weigh 2.3kg, but it is very handy to work in a confined space with the lowered position, such as when making furniture. The main handle has an upper rubber grip to prevent slipping. Safety button on the side of the handlebar to prevent accidental start. Speed regulator in the thumb reach is very handy. Mushroom-shaped handle on the end for support with the other hand.

Features and functions. The most important feature of the grinder is a low vibration level, with 310 watts of power, as confirmed by the users in their reviews. Less hand fatigue. It also uses double insulation to make live parts safer for extended periods of work.

The manufacturer has equipped the tool with a control system of the sanding plate, which itself, independently of the operator, monitors the impact of the abrasive sheet on the material and prevents the formation of dents.

Makita BO6030 work surface.

RPM adjustment system ensures the quality of the finish on all sorts of materials. Dust extraction is via sanding pad and is very effective. Combination of oscillating and rotating motions for outstanding grinding results.

Accessories. Model equipped with one-touch dust bag, disk sanding disc and one sheet of sandpaper.

  • Generates little dust even without a vacuum cleaner.
  • You can work with one hand because vibration is very low.
  • Other brand bottoms are suitable.
  • Comfortable in the hand.

Electric or pneumatic tool?

Regarding the choice between electric and pneumatic tools, each tool is used for its own application. If you compare directly, the pneumatic differs with a rigid hose of compressed air (in comparison with the electric cable), and objectively. it is noisier. It’s more a question of economy than comfort. Wherever pneumatic tools are not required by safety standards, it is more justified to work with electric machines, especially since the brushless version nullifies all differences in size and weight.

Festool ETS EC 125/3 EQ

To prolong the life of the tool, you need to let it work properly: choose the right tooling provided by the manufacturer, do not mold on the plate unnecessarily spacers, keep it clean, optimize the workflow by choosing the optimal gradations for a particular operation. Pneumatic tools. supply clean air with the necessary working pressure and properly lubricate, and the electric drive. supply quality electricity 220 V without surges.

Festool LEX 3 150/5 pneumatic eccentric sander

Warranty always means the same thing. protection of the buyer from premature failure due to faulty assembly or defective parts, i.e. due to the fault of the manufacturer. Another thing is that there are options for extended service package. warranty extension, theft protection, unconditional warranty for a certain period regardless of the cause of failure, etc. д. Here the conditions from different manufacturers may differ.

Andrei Martirosov, senior technical specialist at Mirka Rus:

When it comes to the eccentric of the machine, you need to keep in mind that for different types of work it is not always possible to choose a universal grinder with one stroke of the eccentric, because the stroke of the eccentric affects the speed and quality of work. eccentricity gives more productivity, but also increases the risk of grinding something “through”. With a small eccentric stroke, the work is slower, but the grinding process is better controlled by the craftsman.

So, for example, a Mirka ROS2 610CV machine with 10 mm stroke allows you to quickly remove lacquer coating, Mirka DEROS 680CV or Mirka PROS 680CV with 8 mm stroke eccentric is well used for rough work, when you want to quickly remove large defects. The Mirka DEROS 5650CV or the Mirka PROS 650CV (both with 5 mm eccentric stroke) are suitable for sanding work before priming. And for finishing works, before paint application, it is better to use Mirka DEROS 625CV or Mirka PROS 625CV machines with 2,5 mm stroke.

Mirka PROS 650CV pneumatic rotary orbital sander

As for the weight of the machines, depending on the shape and location of the surface to be treated, machines with different weights may be preferred, although lighter machines are most often used for work. But there are exceptions. When working on large horizontal surfaces (e.g. worktops), it is easier to work with a heavier machine, as it will press the surface with its own weight.

From the power consumption point of view, electric tools are better, since they do not need any special additional equipment for their operation. Thanks to the use of brushless motors, the machines developed by Mirka are much lighter and smaller in size than “manifold machines. On the market in a huge range are the electric and classic “collector typewriters” in which a collector motor (with brushes) is installed. Such machines are structurally simpler and therefore cheaper, but weigh a lot, have larger dimensions and lower “mileage” before repair.

Compared with electric grinders, pneumatic ones are simpler, lighter and generally cheaper than electric ones. But their life depends on compliance with the rules of the pneumoline, from which they feed. For work it is necessary to provide a metered flow of oil into the engine, where “blades” are constantly sliding on the cylinder. If the lubrication schedule is not followed, the service life of air grinders is sharply reduced.

Mirka DEROS 650CV with brushless motor (eccentric stroke of 5 mm)

Interestingly, the disadvantages of pneumatic tools include the fact that the tool body is constantly cooling due to the passage of compressed air during operation. When a person often works with bare hands with a pneumatic tool, it is easy to get various occupational hand diseases due to hypothermia. In order to minimize this risk, the body of modern, expensive pneumatic tools is covered with plastic or rubber on top. The modern professional tools are characterized by low vibration, because there are special restrictions on this (also in connection with “health and safety”). For example, some Mirka machines have a built-in balancing system, and electric machines have a built-in vibration sensor as well. Balance accuracy can be checked via a myMirka app on your smart phone. The negative impact of vibration also manifests itself in the quality of the ground surface. Excessive vibration causes defects on the workpiece surface, e.g. “faceting”. This defect can be noticed after the painting, when the flat surface at an acute angle has a characteristic kinks.

The power tool has its own subtleties during operation. It is necessary to remember that during the work an electric motor heats up and for normal work it is necessary to make periodic breaks to prevent overheating of the tool. It is also important to make sure that the electrical cable is not broken or, say, that it was not run over by a car.

Grinding and polishing are important steps in processing the surfaces of various kinds of workpieces made of wood, metal, plastic and other materials. The final result of these actions is a smooth, flat, clean surface, with minimal roughness. An indispensable tool in these operations is the grinder. Grinding is time-consuming, monotonous and unpleasant process. Modern requirements for finishing work in repair and construction have very high standards. Painfully familiar to craftsmen sandpaper, fixed on a wooden bar, gradually replaced by grinding machines. These days, there is a rich assortment of modern sanding machines on the market, suitable for a wide Spectra of tasks. Also suitable for home use. KP has prepared the top 10 best grinders 2022 available on the market.

Top 10 ranking by KP

Metabo WEV 10-125 Quick (from 7978)

Metabo WEV 10-125 Quick belongs to the type of angle grinders (angle grinders), commonly known as angle grinders. This name was given to this type of machines in the USSR because of the place of production. Bulgaria. Has cutting discs with a diameter of 125 mm. Suitable for sanding and cutting metals, stone (concrete) and softer materials. New powerful motor, with a power consumption of 1000 watts, delivers high torque, designed for active use, both in the home and for professional tasks. This grinder has a number of clear positive features: automatic safety clutch, full-wave electronics with adjustment wheel, electronic overload protection, SDS quick-clamping nut, soft start and protection against accidental restart. Carbon brushes are automatically deactivated, which prolongs the working life of the tool. Grinder ergonomic. well-matched center of gravity. The housing flaunts a non-slip coating. Maximum speed. 10500 rpm.

Best Sander Rating

Buy an inexpensive belt sander for wood you can in stores that specialize in the sale of hand-held power tools, retail chains and organizations involved in building materials, as well as online resources.

Availability of a large number of proposals on the type, purpose and cost allows you to choose the model of grinder according to the criteria of choice and individual preferences for the brand of hand-held electric tools.

Makita BO6050J

Professional chain eccentric sander from Japan. 750 W motor provides maximum blade speed of 6800 rpm with 5.5mm platform travel. The tool supports discs up to 150 mm in diameter with Velcro sheet fastening.

Additional features include a starting current limiter that gives a smooth, jerk-free start, speed stabilizing system, and trigger lock. Vacuum Attachment and Integrated Dust Removal System. Includes two-position additional handle and carrying case.

Makita DBO180Z

Cordless eccentric sander from Japanese manufacturer of professional power tools. Powered by 4 or 5 Ah 18 volt batteries with enough power to ensure a maximum blade speed of 11,000 rpm with 22,000 platform vibrations per minute (ppm) and 2.8 mm platform travel. The tool supports discs with a maximum diameter of 125 mm.

The sheet is fastened with Velcro. Speed adjustment and power button lock are provided. The tool is equipped with a dust bag. The price for a machine without battery and charger is about 8000.

Hammer LSM 1000 PREMIUM

Heavy-duty, powerful professional-quality chain belt sander. The tool weighs solid 6750 grams and consumes 1200 watts of power. This enables it to perform tasks of almost any complexity. The machine uses a 610 mm long and 100 mm wide belt. The maximum belt speed is 500 meters per minute. Travel speed can be adjusted.

In addition, there is a function of the power button lock. Dust collector and auxiliary handle connection implemented The main and perhaps the only serious disadvantage of this machine.

Makita 9911K

This belt sander is somewhat simpler, but also slightly cheaper than the previous one. In addition, it has its own advantages. Let’s say it weighs less than 3 kg and costs around 8000. The power consumption of 650W is enough to drive the belt at 270 meters per minute. The machine uses a belt with a length of 457 mm and a width of 76 mm.

Belt centering is automatic. The speed of the motor can be adjusted. Includes dust bag and extraction handle for extra convenience. Includes replacement belt and carrying case.

AEG BHBS18-75BL-0

Cordless belt sander. Powered by removable 18-volt batteries. The belt has a maximum speed of 300 meters per minute. The machine uses a belt 457 mm long and 75 mm wide.

In order to ensure a long and productive life for the machine, the manufacturer has included protection against overloading. Speed regulation and power button lock also included. Includes dust bag, extra handle and storage/carrying case. But the battery and charger need to buy separately, so the device is only about 7000.

Sturm! AG1014P

Affordable brush sander, with starting at 5000. Operates on the mains and consumes 1400 watts of power. Able to spin the disc to a maximum speed of 3000 rpm.

Supports discs up to 120 mm in diameter with a 22 mm pitch hole. Width of sheet metal. 100 mm. Starting current limitation ensures that the machine starts up smoothly and safely. Thanks to the spindle lock, it is very convenient to change accessories, the speed control contributes to stable and accurate work, and the locking on the power button does not keep the button pressed during work. Additional two-position handle included with the machine.

Bosch GSS 18V-10 0

Cordless vibratory sander. It uses proprietary 18 volt batteries, so this unit does not lack performance. The maximum platform oscillation frequency is 22,000 vibrations per minute with a platform stroke of 1.6 mm.

Compatible with 101 mm long and 113 mm wide sheets, which can be fixed with clips or Velcro. Comfortable, clean operation thanks to the power button lock and the dust canister. Included are a hole punch and sandpaper, but the battery and charger in the box you will not find. But it can save you money if you already have a battery or charger from Bosch, because without them the machine costs only a little over 6500.

Types of grinders

In the sale are at least 3 types of grinders on the form of the working surface and the principle of its processing. To understand what will suit you better consider all of these types in detail.

Belt grinders

To compare different versions of the grinders, you need to understand their structure and shape of the working surface. Belt is a completely different type of equipment to perform professional surface treatment. It is a mechanism that has an abrasive belt of sandpaper that rotates on rollers. It is more suitable for roughing and sanding wood.

LShM can be used for painting cars, but it can only be used for linear parts of the body. In the process of treatment, linear stripes are formed on the surface, which is not acceptable and can not be considered as a quality surface treatment. It is generally used for removing a layer of putty beforehand.

Orbital grinders

This type of grinder has a fundamentally different design. They have an axis, on which the working platform rotates. The abrasive discs are fastened to it by means of a special sticky surface. When rotated by an air drive or electric motor, the wheel does not make circles around its axis, but moves in an orbit. This is where the name of this category of machines comes from.

Two types of tools with rotating wheels can be purchased:

What is the difference between the orbital sander from the eccentric, if both have a rotating wheel?

In fact, there is an obvious difference. The second type has an eccentric, which makes the wheel move in an orbit, but the platform is equipped with an additional bearing. During the treatment of the surface due to its presence in the design the wheel stops when the tool is pressed hard.

Still, orbital or axe-centric grinder, which is better?? There is no fundamental difference between the two, except for the independent rotation of the eccentric wheel. But the nature of machining is different.

  • Simple orbital fixtures are used for rougher surface finishing, because the rotation speed of the abrasive wheel does not depend much on the degree of pressure.
  • Whereas eccentric machining is slightly different. It is suitable for softer pavements for their final finishing.

The wheel rotates at high speed, which is the main requirement, and when the master presses it during the work, the disc stops and does not grind the surface of the paintwork. The presence of an eccentric and a bearing act as a kind of safety valve so as not to spoil the final decorative coating of the car.

The maximum diameter of the abrasive disk at the orbital sanders can be about 210 mm. The most convenient is the size of 120 to 150 mm.

Vibrating grinders

You can also buy in stores vibrogrinder. This is a separate category of grinding equipment used for high-quality processing even the car body in his painting or wood products to get a perfectly smooth surface.

Its difference lies in the design and shape of the soleplate. It is made in the form of a 4-corner.

Such a platform is convenient when performing grinding corners, shelves and linear areas on the car body. For this tool, similar grit size pads are available on sale.

If the quality of surface treatment is the same, what is the difference between an eccentric sander and a vibratory sander?? It is not possible to put one tool as an alternative to the other. In the extensive areas of the body, the result is the same, but in the corners and shelves, the quality of processing will differ, because it is impossible to get to the depth of the corner with a round machine.

So still, what is the best grinder, vibratory or eccentric?

To give an answer to this question, we need to evaluate the quality and efficiency of the work of both tools in the same conditions. As the experts say, with a good craftsman, the differences will not be noticeable on large and flat surfaces. But when it comes to the linear areas, shelves, corners on the car body, then the leader here is obvious by its physical features. The quadrangular soleplate can be rectangular or square. Using one or the other is relevant in certain cases.

When deciding to choose a particular type of sander, you need to consider all of its qualities and physical capabilities. An experienced craftsman has all the types of machines listed in the article in his arsenal, because they are applicable in certain cases. A high-quality surface finish can only be achieved with different tools:

  • Orbital ones allow you to perform a more delicate touch-up of the paintwork. They are also applicable for polishing the bodywork, because after their action there are circles, which in their totality are hardly noticeable even when looking at a specific area of the surface in detail.
  • Vibratory grinders draw small radius circles on the surface. This should be taken into account if you want to get a different quality of processing.

When choosing professional equipment (orbital, eccentric or vibratory grinder) you should be wary of cheap domestic. They can be produced by the same companies, but the level of reliability will be very different from the professional. It’s better to pay twice as much, but it lasts longer and produces better results.