The segment of grinding equipment is quite widely represented by mechanical devices that allow processing various materials. One of the most effective options is an eccentric (orbital) device. Thanks to the design features, such models are not only able to work with a huge number of different surfaces, but also provide a high-quality result. Suffice it to say that the grinding eccentric machine is capable of performing polishing operations. In some models, a special mode is provided for this, but the quality of work of most models gives an effect close to polishing already in the standard operating format.
The device and principle of operation of the equipment
Orbital machines are equipped with a rounded platform, which is a support plate. Grinding elements are fixed on this part, which must be periodically replaced. Corundum, fleece, felt, sponge, fur and other raw materials are used as material for working plates. Directly fastening the sanding sheet is done in two ways - by Velcro or by clamping. The first option is convenient replacement, and the second - cost-effective. Since the grinding eccentric machine leaves a lot of dust behind during operation, some manufacturers also include a dust extraction in the design, to which the vacuum cleaner can be connected through a channel in the sole of the tool. The sole itself is capable of performing two actions, at the same time. The main rotational movement provides fine grinding without defects, and an additional reciprocating function consolidates the quality of the result.
Main characteristics
Eccentric models are on the market with power ratings ranging from 150 to 1000 watts. When choosing a unit for carrying out standard simple operations, you should focus on devices with a power potential of up to 400 watts. Models that can be used for the rough cleaning of solid materials have a power of up to 1000 W and more. Grinders with a power potential of more than 2000 W are less common, but such a tool is in demand in wet processing operations. In addition to power, you should also consider the size of the disk. The standard diameter is considered to be 125 mm - this is an option with the optimum oscillation amplitude for the final processing. But for more serious work in large volumes, an eccentric grinding machine may be required, capable of interacting with circles of large diameters - up to 215 mm.
In addition to power, the speed of the device also affects the performance of the device. Entry-level models have a number of revolutions per minute in the range from 4000 to 10,000. In the older lines, you can find grinders with a frequency of 20,000 rpm. Experts recommend giving preference to the tool with the ability to adjust this indicator, which will make processing more accurate and more efficient.
Universality of eccentric cars
Among the operational features that distinguish orbital type grinders, it is worth noting a wide range of applications, that is, versatility. The fact is that, in terms of processing quality, such models are comparable with vibrating devices, and in terms of power - with tape technology. But that is not all. As already noted, eccentric apparatuses can also perform a polishing function, although proper utilization of the unit in this capacity may be necessary. To a large extent, the high versatility that an eccentric sander possesses is achieved thanks to the discs used. The working element can perform not only rotational-translational movements, but also circular, and also provide an oscillatory effect.
Varieties of devices
Using a design with the presence of eccentrics complicates the device, but for the most part its models are similar to each other. The only fundamental separation can be made between household appliances and professional equipment. The household version is compact in size and modest in weight, which gives it excellent ergonomics. This category is mainly represented by wood eccentric grinding machines, which have small power indicators and are designed for short-term processing sessions. Professional models, by contrast, have high performance and can be used in the processing of stone and metal. At the same time, these are massive units, the details of which are distinguished by a long working life and good endurance.
Makita Model Reviews
The manufacturer regularly updates the range of grinding equipment, which presents and noteworthy eccentric models. Users note the high power potential of such equipment and ease of use. Of course, a lot depends on the specific modification, but, for example, a Makita eccentric sander with a power of 300 W is capable of performing high-quality processing of rough building materials. In Japanese products, they also note an effective dust removal system, which in most cases is implemented through a support panel. By the way, connection with a vacuum cleaner is realized without a special adapter, which also increases the ergonomic advantages of the devices. As for the rest, Makita grinders confirm the high status of the brand in the construction equipment market - both the build quality and the convenience of handles with the ability to adjust operating parameters cause only positive impressions.
Bosch Model Reviews
The German brand has long won the image of not only a reliable manufacturer of household appliances, but also a construction power tool. Although users of the products of this brand often criticize the developers for the very weak characteristics of the budget series, the Bosch eccentric sander, even in the initial class, is distinguished by its worthy performance. A series of low-cost GEX models is particularly successful on the market.
In an average performance, the representative of this line is endowed with a power of 250 W and provides a frequency of 12,000 rpm. In addition to good performance, the owners of the device note small but pleasant ergonomic features - for example, a 4 m cable, a dust collector with a pleated filter, high-quality fiber circles and general ease of use. Therefore, if you need a comfortable working model for home use, then the Bosch orbital sander from the GEX series can be the best choice.
Hitachi Model Reviews
Decent models are offered by the Hitachi brand. In the family of this manufacturer, you can find both domestic and professional models. The most popular devices with power from 200 to 300 watts. According to the owners of such equipment, the models do not differ in special functionality and performance indicators, but at the same time they qualitatively fulfill their direct tasks. Like the Makita eccentric sander, Hitachi units provide a good result on a wide variety of surfaces. Also, fans of the brand indicate that this product is one of the most economical. Traditionally, power tools are considered very demanding in terms of energy consumption, but Hitachi low-power grinders can be put on a number of exceptions.
Tool cost
The price tag of orbital grinders depends on the level of operational parameters. Budget devices for domestic use can cost 2-3 thousand rubles. Using such equipment is difficult to obtain high-quality processing, but it is better than performing similar operations with available tools. The class above is followed by eccentric grinding machines, the price of which varies from 4 to 7 thousand rubles. In this range, by the way, most of the models of the above manufacturers are represented. Such a power tool is characterized by decent performance, thoughtful ergonomics and a wide range of functions. For 10-15 thousand rubles. You can also get a professional model that can quickly cope with materials that are difficult to process, regardless of the state of their surface.
Conclusion
A multifunctional construction tool is rarely distinguished by high quality, reliability and accuracy of its tasks. As a rule, you have to pay for universality with a decrease in ergonomic characteristics. But eccentric grinding machines, reviews of which note a harmonious combination of functionality with durability and quality of the processing result, demonstrate a reverse example. This is due to the advantages of the design of eccentric mechanisms, which expand the capabilities of the tool, but do not affect other characteristics. As a result, manufacturers with minimal costs produce compact devices equipped with productive filling and efficient work items.