How to Use a Random Orbit Sander

The random orbit sander comes in a variety of shapes and is one of the best woodworking tools for removing material from a surface quickly while leaving a fine finish. The sanding pads spin and rotate in one movement, making it effective in removing rough spots and swirls left by other sanders. The following steps and a little practice will help you master this sanding technique.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Clean your work area before you begin any project. An uncluttered work area reduces the chance of injury when using power tools.

2. Determine which type of random orbit sander you have and attach a sanding disk according to the manufacturer's instructions. It will be either the hook and loop system or sticky paper attachment. The hook and loop allows you to remove and save the disk for future use if it still has enough grit left. Sticky paper disks are disposable because sawdust collects on the sticky surface, reducing their ability to adhere to the sander once removed.

3. Position the dust collector, if available with your sander. A built-in turbine sucks the dust up through small holes in the sandpaper and on the bottom of the sander. It collects in the small bag or container, available with most orbit sanders, to keep dust from flying in your face and to help keep the sand paper clean. You may have the capability to attach your sander to a shop vacuum or dust collection system, which goes a long way in helping control the fine dust emitted from these sanders.

4. Get the feel of your sander before you start your project. Hold it around or on top of the main housing with one hand. Alternating the hand position can keep your hand from getting too tired during long sanding jobs. Check to see if your sander has a pad break, which slows the sander down when lifted off the sanding surface.

5. Secure the project you are going to sand before you start. Place the pad lightly against the surface, firmly grasp the sander and then switch it on. Move the sander in long, overlapping movements, avoiding tipping it to the side or stopping in one spot.

6. Keep the sander moving at all times because leaving it one place may cause an uneven finish. Try not to remove too much wood at one time as this may cause excessive wear on your sander. It's made to remove material rapidly, but many people make the mistake of trying to remove too much too fast. Some woodworker's prefer to sand with the grain, but this isn't necessary with a random orbital sander. Avoid rounding the sander over edges.

7. Turn the sander off while you still have contact with the sanded surface and then lift it from your project. Make sure that the sanding pad has stopped rotating before you set it back down.

8. Remove the sanding disk, blow out the air passages on the bottom with dry compressed air and remove any built up grime or sawdust after finishing a project and before storing your sander. Always store it without a sanding disk, especially if it's the sticky paper type. Heat generated while sanding increases the adhesiveness and may make the disk difficult to remove if left in place.

Tips & Warnings

• Choose the correct grit of sandpaper for the job. They are available from course to fine.
• Run your sander at a slower speed, if possible, when you are working on acrylic or polyurethane finishes to prevent the sandpaper holes from clogging.
• Always use protective eyewear and a dusk mask when operating your sander.
• Use a dust collector assembly or dust container to keep the fine dust generated by the sander from blowing into your eyes.
• Avoid sanding lead based paint; refer to a professional about lead paint removal.