Sanding Disk 125mm Recommendation and Why They Cost So Much

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  MisterNobody on 17/07/2022 - 19:51

  +1

  Exaxtly what are you sanding (raw timber? painted? shellac?) and what wears out quickly (i.e. symptoms please)? I can say that there are a number of reasons why lifespan can be short. Clogging? Overheating? Wearing down the Velcro felt…

  Have tried most of those sold at bunnings, they're all OK. Diablo (the red ones) seem like the best performers (also very good belts for belt sanders).

  • 

    George Washington on 17/07/2022 - 20:18

    Furniture that have been shellac'd need to remove the old flaky varnish.

    I have a feeling its clogging. is there a trick to unclog the sandpaper to get more use out of it

    • 

      chrisie on 17/07/2022 - 20:36

      I have a reasonable size job to do and would also like to know "is there a trick to unclog the sandpaper to get more use out of it"

      • 

        resubaehtgnolhcs on 17/07/2022 - 23:49

        +1

        The trick to 'unclogging' sandpaper is to simply run a rubber block over the sandpaper (on the orbital sander whilst it's on). If you don't have a rubber block, just use an old pair of runners and use the sole of them. There are plenty of YouTube videos that show you how to do it.

    • 

      JimmyF on 17/07/2022 - 21:24

      +2

      I have a feeling its clogging. is there a trick to unclog the sandpaper to get more use out of it

      Start with a coarser grit/grade and work down from that. They normally 'clog' when you're using the wrong grit.

    • 

      thewinenut on 17/07/2022 - 21:34

      +5

      For shellac and old varnish don’t start with sandpaper. If it’s old use a card scraper, it’ll take most of the old stuff off without tearing through sandpaper.
      …. paint stripper is also effective (but has environmental downsides compared to card scrapers).

      • 

        MisterNobody on 18/07/2022 - 07:36

        +1

        I agree with this. I'm also no expert on shellac, but would recommend you look into if/how methylated spirits might help soften/remove the shellac before you start scraping (or using fine steel wool).

        Paint stripper will not work with shellac, avoid!

    • 

      apsilon on 17/07/2022 - 21:57

      +2

      As thewinenut suggested get a card scrapper and use that to take the bulk off.

      You can try a cleaning stick on the sandpaper. eg https://www.machineryhouse.com.au/g183
      They're really meant for belt linishers and the big disc sanders etc, never tried one on a handheld so be careful but I imagine it'd work. If you have a sander that can take a vac do that as well.

      As for brands, 3M are always good and I've had decent luck with Norton. I've actually just ordered some of the new 3M Xtract Cubitron II Net discs to try. They're apparently very good.

    • 

      TheVelvetSquirrel on 18/07/2022 - 12:44

      +1

      Hi George Washington, similar to resubaehtgnolhcs mentioned, it's best to use rubber to clean the sandpaper. Here's one we stock: https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/334308005478. It may seem to be a waste but discarding overused sandpaper is also recommended if an even sand is required.

      Sandpaper with holes that match the sander would be useful to exhaust the excessive dust/residue.

      Another option to reduce clogging is to use mesh abrasive instead (eg. https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/334180756762).

      Hope that helps, we're a little biased but happy to share further suggestions/options if you find it helpful.