What A Disc Sander Does
A disc sander is a stationary machine which is used for shaping materials like wood, plastic and some soft metals like aluminum. It consists of a coated abrasive, usually sandpaper wound around a metallic disc or wheel which rotates with the help of an electric motor. Since it is a stationary machine, it is mounted on a work bench where the work pieces can be adjusted at various angles depending upon the drawing. The type of sanding and the finish of the work piece are determined by the roughness of the grit used. Disc sanders find application in producing straight and accurate edges on solid timbers, plastic materials and manufactured boards.
There are various aspects pertaining to the choice, purchase, installation and use of a disc sander. Here are a few:
1. Guards: A disc sander must have strong and rigid, fixed guards. The guards should be so arranged that they completely prevent any bodily contact during working or maintenance. The gap between the bench surface and the sander should not exceed 2 mm and only the work area should be accessible.
2. Positioning: A disc sander can weigh up to a hundred kg. Installation and positioning should be done strictly in compliance with the instruction manual. Any negligence can turn out to be potentially hazardous.
3. Operation: One has to be extremely alert while operating a disc sander. Take special care of the position of your hands while giving the feed. The slightest slackness can result in a major accident. Ensure the device is in proper working conditions before starting out. Pay due attention to your clothes, eye protection and hair and ensure they do not get entangled in the machine. Read safety instructions carefully.
4. Safety: Wear protective clothes and eye gear. Be wary of fly outs and sharp chips of material. If possible, wear a mask while at work.
5. Maintenance: Immediately repair any troublesome parts of the machine. Replace the parts before they get worn out completely. Do get your machine serviced regularly. Follow the cleaning, lubrication and other maintenance instructions precisely.
Disc sanders are great carpentry machines as long as they are used with precaution ad care. They are rarely found in smaller workshops as they are highly professional.
There are various aspects pertaining to the choice, purchase, installation and use of a disc sander. Here are a few:
1. Guards: A disc sander must have strong and rigid, fixed guards. The guards should be so arranged that they completely prevent any bodily contact during working or maintenance. The gap between the bench surface and the sander should not exceed 2 mm and only the work area should be accessible.
2. Positioning: A disc sander can weigh up to a hundred kg. Installation and positioning should be done strictly in compliance with the instruction manual. Any negligence can turn out to be potentially hazardous.
3. Operation: One has to be extremely alert while operating a disc sander. Take special care of the position of your hands while giving the feed. The slightest slackness can result in a major accident. Ensure the device is in proper working conditions before starting out. Pay due attention to your clothes, eye protection and hair and ensure they do not get entangled in the machine. Read safety instructions carefully.
4. Safety: Wear protective clothes and eye gear. Be wary of fly outs and sharp chips of material. If possible, wear a mask while at work.
5. Maintenance: Immediately repair any troublesome parts of the machine. Replace the parts before they get worn out completely. Do get your machine serviced regularly. Follow the cleaning, lubrication and other maintenance instructions precisely.
Disc sanders are great carpentry machines as long as they are used with precaution ad care. They are rarely found in smaller workshops as they are highly professional.
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