Question about machine speeds

[Danin Re]

Okay... I apologize if this is not the appropriate place for this question, but I am asking about machines.



All other possible factors being equal, what are the advantages of higher rpm/opm speeds, like 1500 -vs- 3000 -vs- 6000 rpm/opm.



Like is a higher speed capability always better? Do higher speeds perform better, or just make the job faster (better and faster not being the same thing.)



I did a search, but rpm and opm and all as terms bring up waaaaay too much stuff and gives me a headache trying to sift through it.

 

[BigJimZ28]

with a PC the faster the better for defect removal

then slower speeds for spreading polish & wax, glaze ect



with a rotary you do not want a high rpm

because it will create too much heat and damage the paint very quickly



and i think the cyclo is one speed only

 

[Accumulator]

Yep, polish on 5 or 6; glaze, one-steps, and wax at 4-5. Higher speeds can flash products too quickly (hence the recommendations for when to use 4-5), but other than that I can't see any real advantage to using lower speeds. I can't remember ever using the PC at speeds below 4 for anything.