How to Use Disc Sanders

How to Use Disc Sanders thumbnail
Disc sanders smooth wood to an even finish quickly.

Disc sanders grind off the surface of the material you're working with, leaving a smooth finish. Woodworkers use disc sanders for quick and effective sanding of wood for furniture and cabinets. Disc sanders operate on electricity and install on a bench for use while in a standing position by attaching with bolts to a table or work area so it is stationary. Adhere to safety precautions to avoid serious injuries from the high-speed revolutions of a disc sander. Does this Spark an idea?

Things You'll Need

  • Safety goggles
  • Apron
  • Cap
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Instructions

    • 1

      Put on the appropriate safety equipment: safety goggles, an apron to hold back loose clothing, and a cap to keep long hair from falling forward into the disc sander while you work.

    • 2

      Turn the on/off toggle switch to the "on" position with your finger. The disc sander will start. Wait about a minute for the sander to achieve an even turning speed.

    • 3

      Place the item to be sanded on the table. The table is a flat metal piece that supports boards or other materials so you can work on them with the sander.

    • 4

      Push the material on the table into the spinning sander drum in front of you.

    • 5

      Slide the material from left to right in the sanding area. Continue until the burrs or rough edges are sanded off the work piece.

    • 6

      Turn the disc sander off by depressing the on/off toggle switch to the "off" position.

    • 7

      Loosen the locking nut on the table by turning it counterclockwise. Adjust the table to achieve a desired angle, and tighten the locking nut again. This will enable you to sand items at an angle of up to 90 degrees.

    • 8

      Tighten the cap screw after adjusting the table; turn the toggle switch to the "on" position and sand items at an angle. The angle of the table allows items to be held flat as they slide left and right.

Tips & Warnings

  • Always turn the disc sander off before repositioning the table for different angles.

  • Let the disc sander power up fully before applying materials. Placing an item into the drum area before the tool is fully powered can cause uneven sanding as the tool speeds up, and may remove more material in that area.

  • Use the safety foot switch near the floor to shut the disc sander down immediately in case of an emergency. The safety foot switch overrides the on/off toggle switch for speedy shutdowns.

  • Improper protective gear can lead to severe injuries. Goggles protect eyes from flying sawdust and particles. Loose clothing of any type or long hair may be caught and pull body parts against the drum.

  • Never operate a disc sander without the protective guard on the right side of the drum. Sanding items on this side of the drum pulls the material into the machine, jams it and can cause injuries.

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References

  • Photo Credit wood image by Amjad Shihab from Fotolia.com

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