Machine Speed Help

PhiLW · 10-14-05, 01:46

Hi all, new to the site, just like to start off by saying that i'm addicted after seeing some of your efforts on cars and i'll be getting a PC in the new year because of it all.

I have a question about random orbital buffers/sanders.

I have a RO sander which apparently spins at between 4000 and 12,000 rpm, i know that the PC is between 2,500 and 6,000 so would i be ok using my buffer on its lowest setting of 4000?

I'm a complete newbie at this and never seen someone use a RO on their car before but spinning at 4000rpm seems to be spining a lot.

Thanks in advanced.

papi_jay · 10-14-05, 02:30

Somethign I learned recently is that the PC is rated at OPM's ( oscillations per minute ) and that is not the same as sander's RPM ratings ..

Post # 500 for me

DavidB · 10-14-05, 06:08

Quote:

Originally Posted by PhiLW

Hi all, new to the site, just like to start off by saying that i'm addicted after seeing some of your efforts on cars and i'll be getting a PC in the new year because of it all.

I have a question about random orbital buffers/sanders.

I have a RO sander which apparently spins at between 4000 and 12,000 rpm, i know that the PC is between 2,500 and 6,000 so would i be ok using my buffer on its lowest setting of 4000?

I'm a complete newbie at this and never seen someone use a RO on their car before but spinning at 4000rpm seems to be spining a lot.

Thanks in advanced.

Phil,

There is a big difference between OPM and RPM. Oscillations Per Minute is not a very accurate measurement because it does not tell you anything about how much the pad travels.

Several factors determine if an orbital (dual-action) tool will make a good polisher:

1. Strength of the motor (the AMP rating is a pretty good indicator)
2. Head throw (offset)
3. Machine balance (how much energy goes into "buzz" vs. the pad)
4. OPM range... higher is not always better

Most 6" sanders with a head throw of 3/8" or better will work okay as a polisher. The Porter Cable offers the most pad flexibility due to its head design. That does not mean it is the best machine or the only machine that will do the job.

db

psl car wash · 10-14-05, 07:09

just make sure the machine starts off at 0 not say 4000 instantly! or youll have a big mess!!

MorBid · 10-14-05, 07:22

I can't imagine why you would need to use a machine at 4000 rpm. For sanding that speed might be great but for polishing/buffing it's pretty intense. I have seen some real pro's using air polishers at 3000 rpm's but man you gotta know what your doing.

I think my DeWalt Rotary goes up that high but I've only used it at those speeds for removing paint from a panel. Otherwise I'm between 1000 and 1800 rpm's.

psl car wash · 10-14-05, 07:28

mine RARELY leaves 1000! i like it sllooow

PhiLW · 10-17-05, 01:04

I read the details again, its 4-12k OPM not rpm.

Gave it a go on the weekend and it seemed fine, here's some pics of the results...

The pics dont really do it justice.

As i'm knew to all this i used...

1. Megs step one cleaner
2. Wolfgang sealant
3. Natty's Blue.

Very happy with the outcome.