Sand and Deliver

Electric sanders make the job of sanding large areas a lot easier than using 'elbow grease' and sandpaper on a sanding block. Various types of electric sanders are available and each suit particular jobs.

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One thing to remember when using any type of electric sander is to keep it moving, leaving the sander in one place will 'over sand that place and make it stand out from the surrounding area.

When sanding, always change the sandpaper from coarse down through the grades to fine as you achieve the finish you require; don't expect one grade of sandpaper to do all the work.

There are three basic motions used in sanders;

• Orbital – the whole sanding plate moves in a small circle causing each grain of abrasive to move likewise.

• Belt - this gives sanding in one direction so any scratch marks will be along the direction of the belt.

• Rotary - - where the whole sanding disc goes round – the outer edge moves faster than the center so the surface is subjected to varying degrees of sanding.

Things to look for:

• Electric - either 220/230V or 110V - can use on-site where mains power or a 110V transformer is available.

• Cordless – ideal for using where mains supply is not available. Look for one with a Lithium-Ion battery as these last longer. Having a detachable battery is also useful, you can have a spare battery fully charged ready to insert when required rather than having to wait while a single battery is recharged.

• Dust bag - collects the dust as it is produced - generally not completely effective, you still end up with dust everywhere just less.