what is an orbital sander

what is an orbital sander

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An orbital sander is a handheld power tool that sands in a random-orbit action, which means in constant irregular overlapping circles. This technology was first commercially utilized in 1968 by Rupes Tools. Orbital sanders are used to create a smooth surface on wood, plastic, or metal. They can be used for various applications, such as furniture making, refinishing hardwood floors, and preparing surfaces for painting or staining. There are three different types of orbital sanders: electric powered, air powered, and orbital floor sanders. The random orbit sanding pattern is produced by simultaneously spinning the sanding disk and moving it in small ellipses, which ensures that no single part of the abrasive material travels the same path twice during the same rotation. This makes it useful when sanding two pieces of wood that will be fastened at right angles. Orbital sanders use sandpaper disks, and many include integrated dust collectors. Disks are attached using either pressure-sensitive adhesives or a hook and loop system. On models equipped with a dust collection feature, a vacuum sucks discharged dust through holes in the paper and pad, feeding it to a bag, shop vac, or canister.

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