The final stage in the preparation of building materials or finalization of the structure is often accompanied by surface cleaning. Grinding and polishing operations provide a decorative effect, eliminate foreign layers, and, if necessary, change the shape of the product in accordance with the requirements. The simplest tasks of this kind can be solved with improvised abrasives like a file or sandpaper, but for a comprehensive deep refinement you will need a grinding machine, which is available on the construction equipment market in different versions.
Angle Grinders (angle grinders)
Also known as the “Bulgarian” - it is widespread, serves as a universal assistant in private households, and in productive versions with a powerful engine it is able to perform complex professional operations. The tool body has a cylindrical shape, which facilitates physical manipulations with the structure. Some models allow the possibility of lateral integration of an additional handle for power support of the tool.
The working part is a mount for disk nozzles. In standard versions, the angle grinder is equipped with abrasive disks for cutting solid products from metal, ceramics and even stone. Polishing work on surface cleaning is carried out by brush nozzles, which, unlike cutting discs, are mounted on the spindle of the unit, but are not fixed with a clamping nut with a flange. The high power and design features of the angle grinder allow it to be used in finishing and installation works.
Orbital Sanders
The design of this device directly goes into the working disk, which in the process of work makes not only a circular, but a reciprocating move. This feature of orbital rotation improves grinding efficiency and polishing accuracy. As the reviews show, after processing there is not even the smallest trace of abrasive effect, as, for example, in the case of angle grinders. Fixation of round discs is done on the sole of the machine.
Working equipment is a small-format consumable, which also distinguishes it from discs for the “grinder”. This is an abrasive that is more delicate from the point of view of mechanical impact, which is not suitable for rough cleaning, but copes well with polishing. When choosing an orbital sander, it is important to keep in mind that directly attaching the nozzle can be done with Velcro or a clip. If in the process of processing it is planned to use several different-type circles with quick change, then it is better to choose Velcro. The clamp, in turn, is advantageous at a more affordable price and versatility in terms of compatibility with nozzles of various types.
Belt Sanders
The body shapes for the models of this group may be different, but all of them provide for the presence of a wide sole in the structure on which the abrasive material is mounted. This is the tape, in the process of movement exerting a mechanical effect on the workpiece. As a rule, the working sole is oriented downward - the center of gravity of the tool is also directed at it, which minimizes physical effort on the part of the user.
The operator can process surfaces horizontally and vertically, changing accordingly the configuration of the position of the handles. As for the intended purpose, the belt sander effectively eliminates the extra layers of wood, plastic and even metal blanks. Having picked up a coarse-grained tape, you can also clean the walls, eliminating old paint, putty or wallpaper.
Brush grinder
Lightweight unit with a cylindrical body-handle, the working part of which is represented by an abrasive roller. The consumable in this case is a rotating roller with a bristly granular surface. In the process, the user is practically not required to exert pressure on the tool, which greatly facilitates the process. For the direction in the design two handles are provided.
The nature of the mechanical impact will depend on the type of roller selected. There are composite, felt, corundum, nylon and metal brushes for treating different surfaces. For example, wood-based brush grinders are used to finish flooring. An ordinary board not only aligns and cleans, but also acquires a decorative aging effect. It is achieved due to the careful cleaning of the wood structure, as a result of which a clean texture of the material is detected.
Vibratory grinder
A feature of this tool is the presence of a soft base in the form of a tile, which performs reciprocating movements. In addition, the working sole through the eccentric mechanism can perform circular rotation at high speed with the effect of vibration. As a result, a large productivity of mechanical impact is achieved, which allows servicing surfaces made of solid materials. So, if you need a grinding machine for walls, then the vibrating unit can be suitable as a tool for cleaning concrete or brick for further priming. They also use this equipment in bodywork at auto repair shops. With proper setup, the machine will provide fine polishing of the soft metal.
Delta Sanders
Unlike all previous models, this tool has the smallest work surface. It is represented by a triangular sole, making oscillatory movements at high speeds. Also, the housing is small, so the operator can easily direct the device into hard-to-reach areas. As nozzles on the sole use abrasive sheets and plates of different degrees of graininess and shape.
The main consumable is often felt, with a special one for delicate polishing. The structural features of this type of grinding machine have determined the scope of its application. It is optimally suited for precise work with small parts or surfaces in hard to reach places. Small and manoeuvrable housing allows precise manipulations in narrow spaces.
Machine performance
The choice should take into account two main parameters - power and speed of the working equipment. In terms of power, it is worth designating the average range from 200 to 1500 watts. The above delta grinder has the smallest power potential, which is due to the small dimensions of the structure. To work with large areas and high mechanical impact, you need a powerful tool, which are angle grinders. The power potential of such an apparatus on average varies from 1000 to 1500 watts or more.
The frequency of rotation of the nozzle determines with what material and at what type of grinding the tool can be used. The number of revolutions or fluctuations varies from 0 to 12,000 per minute. It should be understood that low revs are more likely to be suitable for soft material. In particular, an orbital sander for wood with a felt wheel will be used in the 4000-6000 rpm mode. A high speed is suitable for stripping or changing the shape of solid workpieces.
Functional support
A set of additional options can ultimately determine the quality of the processing result, as well as improve ergonomics and safety when handling the machine. At a basic level, it is worthwhile to provide for a smooth start system, speed adjustment and nozzle balancing. If you plan to use a high performance tool, it is advisable to take into account the function of supporting a certain number of revolutions under load. The electronic system will automatically control the peak rotation mode, eliminating the risks of overload and overheating.
Equally important in the management of the grinder and safety mechanisms. These include locking the start button, rubberized pads on the body, anti-jamming systems in the target material, etc.
Bosch Model Reviews
One of the leaders in the segment, offering reliable, durable and functional devices. Users, for example, note the wear resistance and safety of the grinders of this company. Especially recommended vibration models that perform fine finish fine finishing of wood and plastic. Separately, users praise the integration of new technologies. So, models with the Easy-Fit system allow you to quickly replace accessories, and using the Constant Electronic speed controller, you can fine-tune the operating mode of the grinding machine. Reviews criticizing this product generally note the high cost of the tool. Even compact Bosch low-power devices are available for at least 3-5 thousand rubles.
Makita Model Reviews
Japanese grinding equipment is also famous for its high-quality elemental base and high service life. In the household sphere, tools for cleaning walls and woodworking are in great demand. Also, users of the Makita grinding machine of the “grinder” type indicate an organic combination of high performance and ergonomic properties. These are low-noise, lightweight and functional devices, which are also provided with double insulation and convenient nozzle changing mechanisms. Sanders of this brand support work with abrasive belts, disks, brushes and sanding paper.
Metabo Model Reviews
Another German manufacturer of power tools, which is familiar to Russian builders for high-quality eccentric models of grinders. Most of all, users praise the SX family of devices, characterized by a comfortable grip and reduced vibration transmitted to the hands. From the point of view of physical handling of equipment in domestic conditions, this is the best offer. At the same time, Metabo grinding machines do not lose to competitors in power indicators. Thanks to the proprietary TurboBoost system, the power plant provides high performance, which can be connected during complex operations on solid-state surfaces.
Reviews of domestic grinders
As a universal solution for household repair operations, many recommend the apparatus “Caliber UPM-1200/180”. Thanks to a power of 1200 W, the machine optimally copes with the cleaning of wooden and metal surfaces, allowing precise control of the number of revolutions.
Interskol company offers a belt sander for wood modification "LShM-76/900". As the practice of using this tool shows, it effectively removes paint and varnish coatings, has a leveling effect and, thanks to the built-in dust extractor, leaves a minimum of dirt.
As a budget and low-power solution for simple tasks, the model "UShM-115/650 Whirlwind" is recommended. This is an angle grinder, the power potential of which is only 650 watts. But this is quite enough for cutting soft metal and polishing wood billets. And the lack of performance and functional support is compensated by a low price tag of 1.5 thousand rubles.
Conclusion
The finishing process is a wide group of various operations that are combined using one or another abrasive. The characteristics of the power plant, the design of the tool and the configuration of the working equipment in the aggregate determine what the mechanical impact will be according to the degree of pressure, the depth of stripping and the coverage area. For example, an electric grinder with a power of more than 1000 watts may be suitable for rough cleaning of metal and concrete surfaces. Moreover, for soft and fine polishing of plastic or wooden panels, such a tool can only be used if there is a speed regulator for the initial rotation modes.
Conversely, low-power orbital apparatuses or delta sanders will be expediently used in responsible final processing of surfaces that are prepared for subsequent alignment or laying of decorative material. For such models, it is worthwhile to foresee the possibility of equipping diverse polishing equipment.