Here is the list of the most popular types of sanders. Learn how to use them and how they work.
1- Belt Sander
Utilizing what is perhaps the best technology in wood surface finishing, the Belt Sanders are pulley driven, and they are among the largest, fastest and most powerful sanders. They come in two main types-stationery and handheld.
How does it work?
Belt sanders use a mixture of speed and force to smooth out wooden surfaces. This type of sander has an abrasive cloth that is attached over two cylindrical drums. The drum on the front end spins freely, while the rear drum is spun by the sander’s motor.
To keep the tool centered, an adjustment knob is used. Note that these types of sanders may need replacements fairly often, especially if they are used to sand rough surfaces on a regular basis.
Where to use them?
- Flat surfaces. Large tables, doors
- They are useful for removing paint and stains.
2- Orbital Finishing Sanders
These types of sanders are highly recommended for first timers because they are light and easy to use. They just need an even stroke, and they work for any skill level.
How Do Orbital Sanders Work?
- These sanders are mostly handheld, and they are powered by batteries or an electric cord.
- They have different size plates, and changeable pads do the work as the tool moves quickly in whichever direction you point it.
- It has two spring-loaded clamps that hold the sandpaper in place, and they are easy to remove when you need to replace the sandpaper.
Where to use them?
- Work best on edges. Help to round rough edges.
- They are also useful for getting rid of hardened wood putty
- Get rid of dried paint
- They provide an overall smooth finish. They give a polished new look.
- These types of sanders don’t have a lot of power, so their general use is restricted to small projects.
3- Random Orbital Sanders
This type of sander provides a precise, powerful wood removal finish. The controls are easy to use, and it helps you kill two birds with one stone by acting as both finishing and rough sanding.
Where to use them
- Helps with smooth sanding on delicate wood surfaces
- Works both in rough and finish sanding in a two-for-one deal
- Table-top sanding.
It may not be the quickest or the most precise, but the random orbital sander is easy to use, and it works great for beginners. It’s safe and quick, portable, and it has sufficient power for projects that may be a little too complex for the orbital finishing sanders.
4- Sandpaper Sheets
If you want total control over the surface finish, then you perhaps need to go old school and just use a simple sandpaper sheet. If it’s a quick touch up, or the surface isn’t so big, you can work your way around with a hand-held sandpaper sheet to get the desired result. It may take time and a lot of energy, but using sandpaper can sometimes give a much better result.
