Disk sander - daft question from novice

[Shay Vings]

Can someone explain how you achive a uniform flatness at 90 degrees on this type of machine when using the mitre gauage?

As the outer region of the disk is rotating much faster than the inner then surely that part will remove more material ? How do you compensate for this or have I got it wrong?

 

[Mattty]

Can someone explain how you achive a uniform flatness at 90 degrees on this type of machine when using the mitre gauage?

As the outer region of the disk is rotating much faster than the inner then surely that part will remove more material ? How do you compensate for this or have I got it wrong?

Ok assuming the disc is 90 degrees to the bed and the mitre gauge fence is 90 degrees to the disc it will sand a 90 degree face. because although the outer edge of the disc is travelling much faster, it can only cut what it is in contact with. So in fact the faster outer edge actually cuts at the same speed as the slowest point of disc contact.

This is how i understand it.

Cheers,

Mattty

 

[OPJ]

Yep, as Mattty says - you should get the same results whether you use the inner or outer edge of the disc. Just make sure that you're only cutting on the side where the disc is rotating down towards the table - otherwise, you'll end up with a load of fine dust in your face!

Is the mitre gauge a good fit in the slot or is it sloppy? Can it be clamped or secure in place?

If I've got a lot of material to remove, I usually start on the outside (which does seem to cut a bit faster - but, the results are the same!) and then finish off near the centre of the disc. Be aware that end-grain can burn easily is the wood gets too hot. Try to keep the timber moving along the disc when you can to prevent this.