What is the difference between a grinder and a polisher

What is the difference between an orbital sander and an eccentric sander

To make a choice must clearly understand the purpose of each type of grinder. At first glance, the principle of grinders is the same. grinding the surface of the material with abrasive accessories. In each specific task one type of grinder will show itself brilliantly, and the other will not give the expected result. For example, eccentric grinders can’t handle inner corners, but vibratory grinders can. Let’s break down the types of grinders and identify the scope of each of them.

difference, grinder, polisher
  • Most modern grinders are equipped with a dust extraction system: connected construction vacuum cleaner through a special nozzle or included a bag for dust collection. It makes the work process cleaner, the tool is better controlled, and abrasive consumption is reduced.
  • Machines are divided into mains and battery-powered according to the type of power supply. Advantages and disadvantages of wireless sanders are obvious. mobility and independence from the mains, but the operating time is limited by battery charge.

Eccentric sanders (orbital sanders)

Eccentric sanders are regarded as the most efficient and universal machines for polishing and grinding surfaces. In industrial production and in private use, they show the best results in terms of surface finish quality.

Polishing and sanding is possible due to a combination of rotational and eccentric movement of the base plate. the sole plate rotates in an orbital motion and simultaneously spins on its axis. This sophisticated abrasive movement allows efficient grinding with a minimum of imperfections.

Machine weighing from 1 to 3 kg, equipped with a round sole with Velcro, to which is attached an abrasive wheel on a felt base. The soles are available in two sizes. 125 and 150 mm in diameter. The machines with 125 mm soleplate are lighter, designed for a smaller area and for more delicate works than the grinders with 150 mm soleplate. motors consume between 200 and 900 watts. more power results in more productivity. When installing accessories, it is important that the holes on the base plate of the grinder coincide with the holes of the abrasive wheel, otherwise the dust removal process will be hampered.

They are used for rough or fine sanding on large surfaces, for sanding between layers of materials and coatings, for polishing, for sanding large surfaces along and across fibers. Often used in carpentries and automotive refinishers. Volumetric, profiled and curved surfaces are machined with CBN. Working with an eccentric grinder is unlikely to spoil the workpiece: make scuffs, burn the material or overdrive with the depth of grinding. The noise and vibration level is less than other types of grinders.

The disadvantages are obvious: eccentric polishers are not suitable for inside corners and recesses. Productivity is small compared to belt grinders.

Technique of performance

Carrying out repair and restoration of the bodywork through the grinder is a responsible process, which requires attention, accuracy and patience. At first the required wheel is set on the tool, the non-polishing machine is started to accelerate at one thousand two hundred rpm. This is a widely accepted indicator is considered optimal for the processing of the body. Next, the polisher is pressed to the surface does not move along the body. The movements should be even and not smooth.

Important: Do not apply too much pressure on the tool, because you can damage the integrity of the paintwork.

What criteria are important to consider?

The modern market offers a wide range of different models. Among such diversity it is not difficult to get confused, especially since there are both budget and not expensive options. Wanting to save money, probably car owners stop their choice on cheap models. Alas experts do not advise to purchase equipment, relying only on price criterion. The main place should be put on the amount of planned work not the frequency of use of the tool. The car polisher should be chosen according to your needs.

The criteria for choosing and buying cars for polishing, quite a lot. Let’s consider the main parameters and compare the different types. In general, all characteristics can be divided into the following categories:

difference, grinder, polisher

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Class. The car grinder can be amateur or professional. Naturally, the class will determine the cost, power and efficiency.If you purchase a tool only for polishing your own car once in several months, it is better not to overpay and to give preference to household variants.

If you have more than one machine at home, it is worth choosing a professional machine to work with. Despite its high price, it will last many times longer and do the same job faster.

Power. Polishers with low power often need breaks so that the mechanism cools down. Tools with power from 400 to 800 watts are considered weak models. Professional machines reach up to 1,500 watts of power.

Weight. Professional class machines with high power always weigh more. In many ways, how much a tool weighs also depends on the manufacturer. If you do not have an athletic build and the skill to work with large weights, it is better to choose light versions, which are convenient for long, laborious work.

Disc diameter. the large diameter of the wheel allows you to work the entire body faster. Standard options are considered 125 mm, 150 mm and 180 mm, but among professional tools can be found and tools with a diameter up to 240 mm.

Bodywork polishing with an electric polisher

Car polishing is performed to restore faded paintwork, or after a paint job to remove matte finish (if it is present) and other minor defects. In the absence of a special polisher, you can polish the body of the car in any way: manually, with a regular drill, and so on, but the best approach is an angle grinder.

An important parameter for polishing is the rpm. It should be at least 1200 rpm, and the highest quality is obtained at speeds up to 3000 rpm. You can regulate the speed manually, but it is better to have electronic regulation.

Since polishing is quite a long process, you should choose a machine powered from the mains, the battery will not last long. Also, make sure you can use as many polishing wheels as possible because some machines do not allow that. It is better to use felt or foam discs when polishing.

Car polishing itself with the grinder is not complicated, but requires attention and care.

Site Consultant krasymavto.The car’s auto body repair

First you need to set the selected wheel and accelerate the machine to 1200-1500 rpm, then just press the disk to the work surface and move along the body.

Do not press the machine down hard, this will lead to greater abrasion of the coating. The pressure force should be minimal and uniform. Uneven pressure on the wheel is even worse than strong pressure, as it leads to uneven waxing of the paint.

Important! During polishing heats the body, so do not stop in one place! Local overheating leads to cracking and peeling of lacquer!

The car body repair should be performed in specialized workshops or service centers. But if you want to save money and make repairs with their own hands, you can buy a small domestic machine with a set of necessary nozzles and do it all yourself.

At work it is necessary to observe safety precautions, to work in overalls, goggles, gloves and a respirator.

Using a hand-held tool. planer

Planer is considered a hand tool for matting the car body. A fine grit sandpaper is fixed on the device and the craftsman begins to make smoothing movements on the surface in any order. The more varied the trajectory, the higher the quality of sanding.

For car body processing it is recommended to use sandpaper or scotch tape. In this way matting areas with complex topography, the movement should also not be monotonous in nature.

difference, grinder, polisher

Best models rating

Summarizing the overview of the varieties of polishing and grinding equipment, it is safe to say that they are very diverse. But still there is a number of models that deserve close attention. Among the inexpensive versions worth mentioning is the Sturm AG1014P. This device, although marked with the logo of the German brand, is assembled in China. The designers were able to create an excellent mechanism, capable of removing dirt and unwanted coating, as well as artificially aging the wood.

The 1400 watt electric motor spins at up to 3,000 turns per minute. Total tool weight is only 3.35 kg. Soft-start and latching start button options. The speed in loaded mode is maintained at a stable level. The more advanced (professional) version is the Bosch GSI 14 CE.

This model of polisher is capable of high level rough and decorative treatment of a wide range of materials. The electric motor, as in the previous version, has a power of 1400 watts, and the speed of torsion of the shaft is the same. Machine handles are rubberized. The total weight is 3.5 kg. Judging by the reviews, this tool is quite convenient and safe in operation. But it is by no means a budget-priced model.

You will need to pay a considerable amount of money for the Makita BO6040. With such a tool, you can remove rust and polish various flat surfaces. The BO6040 is ideal for vehicle paintwork work. The number of oscillations and the torsion rate of the shaft are determined electronically. A smooth start-up process that is gentle on the road.

Accessories and spare parts

Regardless of the specific polishing machine model, its accessories play an important role. Among the nozzles, the bag is distinguished by its role. It collects the maximum amount of debris, dust and waste. The result is the cleanest possible job possible.

Adhesive-formed backing pads allow sanding discs to be secured in holders. Special flexible rollers help to work in hard-to-reach places. Brushes or rollers made of nylon, metal and special composites are used for sanding. Polishers are equipped with main and auxiliary handles. But when choosing such components, one should carefully check that they facilitate the work, not complicate it.

The sole for the vibrating machine, as already mentioned, can be made in the form of a triangle or rectangle. The first type performs better in a limited space, the second. in cases where you need to treat the maximum area. If the power cord is too short, you can use an extension cord at all times. Of course, all spare parts and auxiliary components must be purchased from official manufacturers.

difference, grinder, polisher

Devices and Spare Parts

Regardless of the specific model of the polishing machine, its auxiliary equipment plays an important role. Among the nozzles, the bag stands out for its role. It allows to collect maximum debris, dust and waste. The result is the cleanest possible work.

Backing plates formed on the adhesive base allow the sanding discs to be clamped in their holders. Special flexible shafts help to work in hard-to-reach places. Brushes or rollers made of nylon, metal and special composites are used for sanding itself. Polishing machines are equipped with basic and auxiliary handles. But when selecting such components, one must be careful to check that they facilitate the work, not complicate it.

The sole for the vibrating machine, as already mentioned, can be made in the form of a triangle or rectangle. The first type performs better in a limited space, the second. in cases where you need to treat the maximum area. If the power cord is initially short, an extension cord will have to be used continuously. Of course, you have to buy all spare parts and auxiliary components only from official producers.

Tips for use

You can use a polishing machine for car bodywork only after a special polish has been applied to the surface. The chemical composition of this preparation is quite complex. Preparing for work, it is necessary to prepare a pair of polishing discs: one. for rough, and the other. for thin impact. A small amount of paste is applied to the discs. Therefore, do not treat large areas in one step.

Speed should be kept to a minimum for rough treatment, and increases as the work approaches its logical final stage. An even distribution of the polish is obtained by working crosswise. first horizontally, then vertically. The approach to polishing wood should be different. To get a good result, you should carefully study the features of a particular machine and the manufacturer’s recommendations. You should also take into account the peculiarities of a particular type of wood.

Pros and cons of pneumatic grinders

The pneumatics are somewhat easier to set up than the electric models. Like everything, there are positive and negative sides.

  • Low weight and dimensions. This is decisive for long-term work, especially at heights, because a weight of 300-600 grams is a stark contrast to a weight of several kilograms. Powerful high-pressure models are somewhat heavier, but still much lighter than electric models. Because the role of engine is not the engine, but the compressed air, which is transmitted through a hose. The size can differ from electric tools by a factor of 2 to 3.
  • Safety of work in case of gassy conditions and high humidity. You can work even in the rain. They are not affected by short circuits.
  • The strength of the body and internal parts allows to work for a long time without destruction and repair. Withstand rough treatment.
  • Low noise load of similar in power models.
  • Good maintainability, low spare parts and maintenance costs.
  • Lack of inertia. start working with maximum power immediately when the desired pressure is applied.
  • Improved durability. Service life is several times longer than of electric models.
  • Cost is somewhat lower than that of electric models. The difference reaches 10-30%.

But any tool does not consist of only pluses. it is bound to have disadvantages:

  • Many additional elements are needed for operation. hoses, compressor, dryer, receiver.
  • Hose limits the distance the tool can be used. it is essentially tied to the compressor. In addition, the dragging hose sometimes irritates the nerves.
  • Limitations in supplying a certain air pressure. The compressor must deliver 25-30% more air than needed for the grinder.
  • The air supply cools the tool, which is unpleasant in cold weather. you have to work with gloves on.

Pros and cons of electric grinders

There are many more electric models in the store and there is a lot to choose from. Positive properties of the tool:

  • Easy startup. All you need to do is plug it in. Battery models are even easier to turn on.
  • Additional functions.
  • The weight of powerful machines is several times greater than the weight of pneumatic models.
  • High maintenance costs. replacement of brushes, repair of brittle housing or motor if power supply is incorrect.
  • Tool inertia.
  • High noise level, in contrast with similar in power pneumatic tools.
  • The need to maintain a stable voltage.
  • Increased fragility of the body.
  • Inability to work in high humidity, dustiness, presence of flammable gases.
  • High cost.

What is the difference between the grinder from the angle grinder

The two devices that are used for sanding wooden products have significant differences. Not only on the principle of operation, but also on the end result. Experts say that the angle grinder can never achieve perfection, unlike a competently selected grinder.

Before starting work, it is important to determine for yourself the expectations of the process. The choice of the device will depend on this.

Features of the angle grinder

angle grinder or angle grinder is a multifunctional device that is used for various projects. Depending on the selected attachment, you can handle surfaces, sawing, cutting, trimming, and more.

When processing wood, a flap wheel or sanding pad with sandpaper is used. At high revolutions, the angle grinder rotates the disc, as a result of which the processing of the log takes place. The surface will be smooth and even, but only approximately. Achieve the desired parameters for each bar will only be possible with a grinder.

Note that the angle grinder works much faster. The disadvantage is the need to keep the machine on the weight. In addition, the process generates a huge amount of dust and cuts that fly at the operator. Protective clothing, a respirator and goggles are required.

Characteristics of grinders

Specialists in the field of carpentry work advise the use of a grinder. There are three varieties of this device:

Orbital are used for finishing, to achieve smoothness. They rotate about their axis with a slight offset. Band saws are used in the first stage, to conduct rough treatment and remove a thick layer of wood. They look like two rollers, which actuate a special belt, glued to infinity.

Vibratory are used for intermediate grinding. The sole plate moves in a circular motion, buffing the material. Experienced carpenters use all varieties of the device.

What to choose. a grinder or an angle grinder

Buying a device, you must first determine what it will be used for. Working with wood has its own subtleties. improper or not thorough enough processing with the wrong tool can ruin the entire appearance of the product.

Normal angle grinder is inexpensive, simple and economical to maintain and repair. She can quickly process wood, using a petal disc for grinding. sandpaper attached to a rigid round base. There are discs of different abrasivity, which should be chosen based on the intended purpose. However, the quality of such processing will not be high: the surface will be smooth, but not quite flat. The reason for this is high RPM, besides, the tool has to be constantly held in the weight.

This method is good if you need to sand, for example, a paving board, boards for a rough floor or a ceiling. But it is not suitable where it is important to obtain a perfectly flat surface, or for processing corners and other reliefs.

For these purposes, it is better to use professional sanders. belt, or “tanks” for roughing, when you want to remove a thick layer of wood, vibrating. in the intermediate stage and the eccentric. the final, when you want to grind final product.

The use of several types of grinders is preferable because it is required by the technology of sanding wooden surfaces. Start grinding should be using coarse-grained paper with an abrasivity rating of 60, then 80, and gradually increasing the grain size to 150-180.

When processing wood after sanding with a tool, it is recommended to finish it by hand, because otherwise, after covering it with a stain or paint, you will be able to notice traces of the tool. Grind the wood strictly along the fibers with quick, light movements. In the final stage, when using a fine-grained sandpaper. almost without pressure.

Comparative analysis of electric devices

As you can see from the above description of the power tools, the functions of these tools are 98% identical. Both devices are used for cutting, grinding and polishing materials made of metal, wood, plastic and other materials.

Angle grinders have a wider range of division of areas of work (flat surface, angle). Also, many models have a function of a vacuum cleaner, which is not at the angle grinder.

Often the angle grinder is used as a tool for cutting various materials, while the grinder is more designed for cleaning surfaces and subsequent polishing.

Angle grinder (angle grinder) Wert EAG 0912 | review and test

As we have considered, the angle grinder and the grinder have identical functions. are used for polishing, grinding and cutting various building materials. Alas, an angle grinder is best used for cutting metals, while a grinder is suitable for cleaning and polishing surfaces.