99 Re: Random Orbital Sander
Description
This article is from the Woodworking FAQ Collection 5, by multiple authors.
99 Re: Random Orbital Sander
From: jchen@flash.bellcore.com (Jason Chen)
Date: 22 Jan 91 04:49:46 GMT
In article <1991Jan20.033218.6118@ee.rochester.edu>,
tombs@ee.rochester.edu (Thomas Tombs) writes:
|> Re: Random Orbital Sander
From what I've heard the relatively new models from Bosch and Porter
Cable are
|> excellent and can be used for *almost* all sanding needs.
I think this statement is exaggerating. It can not replace a belt sander.
They are basically finish sanders. Any use beyond that is stretching
what they are designed for. They are not handy at corners or on edges.
Nevertheless, they are great finish sanders.
|>
|> I've heard good reviews on the PC but haven't heard anything about the
|> less expensive Bosch model.
I tried out the Bosch 3283DVS. On the surface, it seems the Bosch one is
a better buy. It has 5 speeds from 8000 opm to 12000 opm. I comes with
a dust collection bag. And it is substantially cheaper. However, a close
examnation will show that PC 7334 is a better work horse.
The problem with Bosch 3283DVS is power. It has only a 2.3-amp motor.
Although its no-load speed is up to 12000 opm, it drops to less than half
of that once contacting a surface (estimated by the sound). It will drop
even more if pressure is applied.
The 5-speed feature is of little use. The lower speed-settings also showed
decreased torque. I see no practicle use of it, same thing for PC 7335, which
is the variable speed version of 7334.
The dust collection works, but not very well. I tried the optional dust mask
on to see if it would work better. But disappointingly the dust mask not only
didn't help much, it interfered with the sanding pad's rotation, and slowed
it down a bit.
Another drawback of 3283DVS is the sanding disks. They are not generally
available in your local stores. They are also more expensive, but they do
go a long way.
|>
|> What I know about the PC model 7334: not variable speed;
|> 3.7 amps; 5 1/2 lbs; no load speed is 6000 OPM; 5" pad size.
|> I received a flier several months ago from Tools-on-Sale and they
|> were selling the PC for $119 (a special).
On the other hand, I found the PC models were more powerful. No significant
lost of opm when pressure is applied. They are faster than the Bosch model.
My judgement is PC's ROSs are more serious machines. Bosch's ROS is more
home hobbist oriented. When the price difference is considered, it is hard
to say which one is a better buy. You do get what you pay for.
|> What I'd like to find out:
|> How does the Bosch compare (and what is the model #)
|> Recent prices and where at?
|> Any wisdom from owners of such beasts.
3283 DVS is about $100 at International Tool Corp. I highly recommend ITC
for they quick shipment, low prices, and excellent service. They do not
charge S&H even you buy a $10 router bit.
From: LNF@psuvm.psu.edu
Date: 10 Feb 91 22:39:25 GMT
I noticed that PC makes a 5" and 6" diameter sander. I presume that the
6" will remove material faster due to the higher velocity of the
outer edge. Does this make the resulting surface smoother or rougher?
Does the 6" have any disadvantage over the 5" model?
Continue to:
My Books
