Can I turn my router table into a bobbin sander?

[rileytoolworks]

Evening all.
I was thinking today about building a bobbin sander with downdraft table.
Then I routed some stuff on the router table and thought - well, if I could just mount a bobbin in the router, problem solved.
So, does anyone know if this is possible (i.e has anyone already done it/are there products on the market?).
I can get some bobbins machined with a 1/2" tenon, but how do I attach the sandpaper?
All advice greatly appreciated.
I may still build a dedicated sander anyway....

 

[DaveL]

I don't think this is a good idea, the router runs at a high rpm and the sandpaper would burn.
If you did slow the router down to the right speed the motor would overheat as the cooling fan would not be running at a high enough speed to be effective.

 

[DMD]

i agree 30000 rpm is perfect for starting fires, i use my pillar drill for this sort of work

 

[Anonymous]

Nooooo!!! Too fast

 

[OPJ]

i agree 30000 rpm is perfect for starting fires, i use my pillar drill for this sort of work

Wot, for starting fires??? :roll:



Some people have success with bobbins fitted to pillar drills, while others find they can vibrate lose under load with some chucks. I don't think anything beats a dedicated machine though; the up-and-down action of the spindle helps to prevent clogging, burning and prolongs the life of the abrasive.

 

[neilyweely]

Come on Riley, you know better than that! :lol:

I can get you a set of sanding bobbins for next to nowt that will fit in your pillar drill. I made a little table that sits in the PD's vice and allows me to set the bobbin just thru said table thus allowing me to sand the whole piece without turning it upside down halfway.

I use the PD for this even though I do have a spindle sander!

Hope you are well mate, and will see you soon.

Neil

 

[neilyweely]

Err, c'mon mate, you know the answer yourself, don't you? :lol: :lol:

I can get you a set of spindle sanding bits for next to nowt, that can go in your pillar drill. If you let me know I'll get 'em sorted for you.

Hope you are OK.
And will come over to see you soon.

Neil