Rating of eccentric sanders
Each manufacturer produces models with a certain set of characteristics that affect the performance, ergonomics, reliability and service life of the tool. Specialists from the site Vyborexperna.ru studied and analyzed data on the operating features of more than 20 ESMs, conducted tests on build quality and ease of use. When compiling the review, the following parameters of the devices were taken into account:
- Engine power;
- Disc diameter and rotation speed;
- Platform stroke size;
- Dimensions;
- Weight;
- Features of sheet fastening;
- Vibration and noise level;
- Additional functions;
- Contents of the kit;
- Price.
The rating includes 10 models, which are divided into 2 categories based on design features. The nominees that were not included in the review were inferior in terms of comfort of use and price/quality ratio. A number of tools have a low degree of dust removal, lack of an anti-vibration system and rubberized inserts on the handle, which negatively affected ease of use. The questionable reliability of components and parts also did not allow us to select them among the top best units.
The best polishing machines
Random orbital sander BOSCH GEX 125 AC
Characteristics
General characteristics
- Machine type : eccentric
- Power consumption : 340 W
- Max. disk rotation speed : 12000 rpm
- Max. platform oscillation frequency : 24000 kol/min
- Platform stroke size : 5 mm
- Max. disc diameter : 125 mm
- Sheet fastening : Velcro
- Power : mains
Features and Features
- Features : speed control, speed stabilization system, dust collector
- Additional handle : yes
- Weight : 2 kg
Additional Information
- Modification (manufacturer code): 0 601 372 488
- Equipment : grinding machine, microfilter unit, sanding sheet K120, additional handle, hex key.
- Features : 2.5mm eccentricity, paper filter bag, aluminum bearing flange. country of origin: Switzerland
Price
Price from 10,990 to 15,600 (Average price: 11,990 RUR)
Reviews
pros
Not too noisy, long cord, doesn’t get hot during long periods of use, comfortable grip, not too heavy.
Minuses
It is stated that the tool is professional, but on the second day of work (grinding the log house) the sandpaper began to fly off, and the sandpaper was also Bosch, I tried sandpaper from another manufacturer, the same thing. I will have to re-glue the Velcro that is on the heel. Although it is not expensive, it’s still not a pleasant aftertaste. The price is not small for a machine. That’s how the good name of Bosch gets lost over little things! But in general, it’s a pleasant feeling from working with this tool.
pros
Smooth running, minimum recoil!!! A good tool for relatively little money!!!
Minuses
I haven't found it yet!!!
A comment
I especially recommend it to those who work with wood... The machine is super!!!
8
How to choose an eccentric sander
A good tool saves the user's effort and time. Each model is designed to work in certain conditions and can withstand specific cyclic loads, so it is necessary to select a unit taking into account technical parameters.
Power
The value of the orbital parameter ranges from 165 to 1200 W. It directly proportionally affects the performance of the tool. The higher the value, the more work the master manages to do in a shorter period of time.
The most popular are units with an indicator of 250 - 750 W. Light weight ensures ease of use, and their functionality is designed to perform a wide range of grinding tasks.
The advantages of high-power models include the ability to use coarser skins. They are chosen to carry out rough work.
Frequency and amplitude of oscillations
For 1 revolution of the eccentric, 2 movements of the sole occur from one point to another, therefore the frequency of oscillations and rotations are interrelated. The first value is 2 times higher than the second. On models with speed control, it ranges from 8,000 to 26,000 vibrations per minute, in the absence of such a function - no more than 24,000.
The value of the parameter is selected for a specific material and nozzle. The less abrasive the sandpaper is, the finer the sanding that needs to be done. Therefore, the oscillation frequency must be higher. For rough work and primary processing of material, units with a low parameter level are recommended.
The amplitude of movements of the ESM is 2 – 7 mm. Affects productivity and grinding quality. The higher its value, the more roughly the material is processed, but the work goes faster.
Platform diameter
The size of the sole also determines the performance of the tool. The larger the area of the abrasive, the wider the processing area it covers. EShMs are produced mainly with two diameters of the grinding “plate” - 125 and 150 mm, in rare cases there are models with indicators of 95 mm, 75 mm.
The latter are used when working with angle machines. Units with a sole size of 150 mm are attractive due to the possibility of attaching sandpaper; they are classified as professional tools.
terms of Use
Orbitals are used for processing wooden, plastic and metal surfaces for finishing coats and polishing varnish. Household models with a low-power engine and a limited range of useful options are used for occasional work of short duration. The professional tool has expanded the list of operations performed and provides for adjustment of technical parameters. It is used for grinding, cleaning, and polishing various materials.
For work in conditions of increased dust, humidity or fire hazard, models are suitable whose passport indicates that the tool has an increased level of protection. In the instructions, the manufacturer must describe the features of using the unit. A pneumatic ESM would be a good option. It is used on production sites for processing ceilings and walls. The device has a minimum of dynamic components and does not require power from a battery or electric drive, which ensures ease of operation in any conditions.
Ergonomics
The effectiveness and ease of use of a tool is determined not only by technical parameters, but also by a number of additional capabilities of the unit. The rotation speed control system allows you to configure the device for processing materials of different hardness. The soft start function increases the reliability of operation of components and parts, reduces the risk of user injury, and ensures comfortable operation.
The automatic brake improves the quality of work and reduces the likelihood of damage to the workpiece. The presence of a connection pipe for a vacuum cleaner guarantees a better level of safety for the operator’s health and cleanliness of the workplace. To make your fingers less tired, the ESM has a locking start button. At the same time, in household models the function often works intermittently.
Features that guarantee ease of use also include a rubberized body and an anti-vibration system. Such options ensure reliable fixation of the unit in the hand at high speeds.
The best professional tool
A professional grinding tool is characterized by increased engine power, the presence of options for selecting the operating mode and adjusting technical parameters. The list of operations performed has been expanded, productivity has been increased, and the quality of operations performed has been improved.
METABO FSX-200 – the lightest
The lightweight, easy-to-use device performs stripping, grinding, and polishing of metal, plastic and wooden parts. The light weight of the machine allows you to use only one hand. Second, at this time, you can perform the necessary manipulations for the workflow. The handle is equipped with an ergonomic vibration-compensating rubber pad.
PROS
- Good ratio between power and weight of the tool.
- Delicacy during processing - does not leave scratches on the surface.
- Fits comfortably in the hand.
MINUSES
- The device is good, but the dust removal system is not perfect.
AEG EX 125 ES – optimal for occasional work
A professional tool for performing household tasks and periodically completing third-party orders. The accuracy of work is facilitated by the “Soft Start” function and engine speed control. It is used for stripping old coatings, coarse and fine grinding, preparing surfaces for coating with paints and varnishes.
PROS
- The presence of a soft start and an effective brake.
- The light weight does not burden the hands; operations can be carried out with one hand.
- An effective method for removing fine dust.
BOSCH GEX 150 AC is a good choice for private teams
High-performance tool for processing metal, wood, plastic. Smoothes and corrects uneven surfaces on plaster and putty. Prepares the surface for application of varnish, enamel or paint. The mode is selected based on the tasks assigned and the type of material being processed.
PROS
- Convenient ergonomics.
- Universal application.
- Increased area of abrasive equipment.
MINUSES
- You have to constantly blow through the internal cavities of the instrument.
DeWALT D26410 – a pro in his field
The professional-class machine is used for processing metal surfaces, renewing parquet surfaces, and restoration work on furniture, walls and ceilings. Performs precise operations, including polishing complex surfaces. The correct operating mode is ensured by the ability to adjust the required engine speed.
PROS
- Ergonomic body, comfortable grip and control of the tool.
- Setting two types of amplitude oscillations.
- Minimum level of vibration loads.
MINUSES
- A little noisy, headphones required.
- Slightly heavy when working vertically and near the ceiling.
Which eccentric sander is better?
The main selection criterion for craftsmen is often the price of the instrument. If used rarely, it is recommended to buy a model with a minimum set of additional functions. Comparative tests of the nominees allowed the VyborExpert project team to identify the best devices from a review of eccentric sanders based on a number of characteristics:
- The cheapest device is Wert EES 125DE;
- The best package is Makita BO5031;
- The most compact and powerful model is Einhell PXC TE-RS;
- Best build quality – Bosch Advancedorbit 18 0;
- The best device in terms of performance/quality of grinding is Hammer OSM480;
- Users' Choice - DeWALT DWE
A good sander should provide a high quality finish on the material. To avoid disappointment with the model, experts recommend taking into account the specifics of its use when choosing. This will allow you to correctly determine the technical parameters of the tool. The analysis of reviews presented in the rating will allow us to clarify the pros and cons of using each nominee.
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Creating an ideal surface for varnish or paint is impossible without a sanding machine. Today, for these purposes, you can find several different types of sanders on the market, each of which is good in its own way. For example, even a high-quality and expensive belt sander will not be able to provide an ideal surface for varnishing or staining, unlike an eccentric sander, which was created precisely for this purpose. There are no particular difficulties in choosing an eccentric grinder, even despite the huge assortment from various brands. The main thing is, before choosing an eccentric type sander, determine for yourself what it should be in terms of basic parameters and additional functions.
- Basic parameters of an eccentric sander
- ESM power
- EShM type
- ESM rotation speed
- Amplitude of ESM oscillations
- EShM plate diameter
- EShM weight
- Additional functions of an eccentric sander
- Speed adjustment
- Dust collector option
- Possibility of connection to a vacuum cleaner
- Second handle
- Starting current limitation
- Pressure indicator
- Abrasive mounting option
For those who are going to grind a surface for the first time using an eccentric sander, the following should be explained. An eccentric sander is designed for polishing , coarse and fine grinding. In practice, in most cases it is used only for polishing and fine finishing, followed by varnishing or painting the surface. Such a narrow focus of the machine is due to the peculiarity of its operation. The operating principle is a reciprocating circular motion of the grinding wheel, which achieves high-quality processing.
Basic parameters of an eccentric sander
When choosing an eccentric sander (ESM), you will have to immediately decide how often it will be used. If from time to time and for short-term work, then when purchasing you can take the budget option. But if the loads on this tool are frequent and quite large, then you can safely take a professional electric machine. Of course, if you purchase a tool for yourself and so that it will serve for a long time, then you can look into a professional ESM without hesitation. True, the price for a professional eccentric grinder will be significantly higher than for a regular one.
Having determined whether it will be a regular or professional grinder, it remains to understand the characteristics of the ESM itself. Without this, it will not be possible to determine which of the best sanders you need from the entire possible range. All characteristics can be divided into two categories. The first category is performance characteristics that determine the quality and efficiency of working with a particular eccentric sander. These include power, vibration amplitude, rotation speed, abrasive wheel diameter, weight and power supply option for the tool. The second category is the additional functions of the machine, which provide convenience and comfort when working with the tool. Additional functions include speed control, a dust collector option, the ability to connect to a vacuum cleaner, a second handle, starting current limitation, and a pressure indicator.
ESM power
The main characteristic of any power tool is its power. And eccentric sanders are no exception. This is the first thing you should consider when choosing a grinder. The high power of the ESM allows you to use the tool longer and with greater efficiency. In addition, the quality of the work performed, the rotation speed of the sanding plate, and the weight of the machine depend on this parameter.
The power range of eccentric sanders is from 160 W to 900 W. But low-power and high-power ESMs can be listed on one hand. The most common grinders have power from 300 W to 600 W. the Bosch eccentric grinder . When choosing, you should pay attention to ESM with high power ratings. Moreover, if the difference in power is 20 - 50 W, then there will not be any significant differences in the quality of processing. But if the difference is 100 W or more, then preference should be given to a more powerful tool. The quality of work, its duration and the service life of the ESM will be high.
EShM type
Various energy sources are used to operate ESMs; depending on this, there are several types of eccentric sanders. This could be an electric machine powered by mains or battery power, or it could be a sander using compressed air. This diversity makes it possible to use ESM both where there is electricity and where there is none. When choosing one option or another, you need to clearly understand why and where the ESM will be used.
If everything is more or less clear with electric sanders, then we should talk a little about pneumatic ones. An eccentric pneumatic grinding machine is used mainly on a production scale, as it requires the installation of additional equipment in the form of a compressor or compressed air cylinders. These EShMs serve perfectly in a garage, service station or furniture production workshop. Their main advantages are low weight, it ranges from only 600 g to 1000 g. As well as a small number of moving parts. Since, using compressed air, there was no need for an electric motor, there were correspondingly fewer parts. This affected both the weight and the service life. In addition to all this, the low weight allows you to use the tool itself longer and more comfortably. One of the manufacturers of such ESMs is Dynabrade, with its Dynorbital .
ESM rotation speed
This parameter of an eccentric sander is directly related to its power. The quality of work performed and ease of use depend precisely on the rotation speed. But there is one important point here. When buying, they usually try to choose a machine with high rpm, believing that the higher, the better for work. But this relates more to productivity than to the quality of work. Very high ESM speeds are suitable for rough surface treatment, but for perfect grinding low speeds are required.
There is another feature associated with the rotation speed that should be taken into account. It lies in the fact that the higher the power of the machine, the lower the rotation speed. the Makita bo6040 eccentric grinder has a power of 750 W, and its rotation speed is only 1600 - 5800 rpm. , the Bosch GEX 125-1 AE eccentric grinder has a power of 250 W and a rotation speed of 7500 - 12000 rpm. When choosing an ESM, you need to remember this feature and focus on the purpose for which the machine will be used. It will be a high speed sander for rough sanding or a low speed sander for finishing sanding.
Amplitude of ESM oscillations
The next parameter that affects the quality of surface treatment and depends on the rotation speed is the amplitude of oscillations or, as it is also called, the eccentric stroke of the grinding machine. As noted above, the ESM performs reciprocating circular movements. And if the rotation speed has a greater influence on productivity, then the amplitude of movement of the grinding plate is responsible precisely for the quality of processing.
In fact, the amplitude of vibration and the speed of rotation are related. It is the combination of these two movements that allows for high-quality grinding. There are models on the market with amplitudes from 2 mm to 5 mm. DVT grinders have the smallest amplitude. The presented photo demonstrates the movements of the sanding pad of an eccentric sander; it can be seen how the quality of the surface treatment changes depending on the amplitude of the vibration.
Important! It should be noted that for some pneumatic ESM, reciprocating movements are created using special lever attachments. Depending on which lever is installed, this will be the diameter of the orbit for grinding.
EShM plate diameter
In addition to power, the performance of an eccentric sander also depends on the diameter of the sanding pad. Everything is simple here - the large area of the plate allows you to quickly process a large area at a time. The most common sizes are diameters 125 mm and 150 mm. But you can also find non-standard sizes of 50 mm, 80 mm, 90 mm or 115 mm. Although the eccentric sander is intended for processing only smooth surfaces, the small diameters of the soleplate allow grinding of corner joints.
Non-standard sizes of the grinding pad are very rare. Only a few companies produce them, and among the entire range of eccentric grinders on the market you can find only a few copies. Prominent representatives of ESM with a small plate diameter are the Rupes TA 50 and Metabo SXE 400 .
When purchasing an ESM, in many cases it is enough to look at the model name to determine the diameter of the plate. Most manufacturers indicate the size there. For example, eccentric sander Interskol EShM-150/600E . Looking at the markings, you can immediately determine that the diameter of the plate is 150 mm, and the power of the machine is 600 W. But it wouldn’t hurt to look at your passport or ask the seller. the Makita BO5031 eccentric grinder does not contain such data in its name.
EShM weight
As previously noted, the weight of an eccentric sander directly depends on its power. It's just a matter of the engine. The more powerful it is, the heavier the machine. Weight does not directly affect the quality or productivity of work. But this parameter is important for the comfortable work of the master. So an ESM with a large weight will be more difficult to process vertical surfaces, as well as the ceiling. For processing horizontal surfaces, this parameter has little effect on the comfort of working with it.
Additional functions of an eccentric sander
In contrast to the characteristics of eccentric sanders described above, additional ones have a lesser effect on the productivity and quality of work. But the presence of certain additional functions makes the work more comfortable.
Today, manufacturers are trying to provide their ESM with useful functionality as much as possible. Such functions include speed control, various options for dust collectors, the ability to connect to a vacuum cleaner or an adapter for it, a second handle, limiting the starting current (soft start), and a pressing force indicator. Let's look at each of them in more detail, since some of these functions can play a decisive role when choosing.
Speed adjustment
Today, almost any power tool has this function and the ESM is no exception. Even pneumatic ESMs have the ability to adjust speed, implemented in the form of pressure levers. For eccentric grinders, the ability to adjust the speed makes it possible to use the tool for both coarse and fine grinding. Which in turn allows you to save on the purchase of several sanders.
Dust collector option
The result of the grinding machine is not only a flat and smooth surface, but also a fairly large amount of fine dust. Of course, the manufacturers took care of the presence of a dust collector for it. But everyone has their own one and it’s not always convenient.
For example, Makita eccentric sander is equipped with three types of dust collectors – plastic, rag and paper. But Bosch only have plastic dust collectors with the possibility of replacing them with a vacuum cleaner. When purchasing an EShM, you should always consider the option of a dust collector that will be convenient for everyone in particular. The dust collector itself, of course, does not affect the quality of work, but you don’t want to bother too much when cleaning it.
Possibility of connection to a vacuum cleaner
As already noted, dust removal for various models and manufacturers of ESM is carried out either in a separate dust collector or using a vacuum cleaner. This approach is justified. After all, the dust collector is small in size and doesn’t last long, so you have to clean it often while taking time off from work. Therefore, some manufacturers have provided the ability to connect a vacuum cleaner. Unfortunately, not all models of eccentric sanders have this option. But professional ESMs, such as Bosch , Rupes or Makita sanders, must be connected to a vacuum cleaner.
Of course, there is another option for connecting to a vacuum cleaner, this is a special adapter. Other ESM manufacturers, realizing the importance of connection, decided to leave their grinder models unchanged and began producing special adapters. Therefore, when buying an eccentric machine, realizing that you will have to work hard and for a long time, you should ask the seller about the possibility of connection.
Second handle
The specificity of working with an eccentric machine involves pressure on it from above. Even the very shape of the instrument is entirely aimed at this. But quite often the trigger mechanism and electric motor are located somewhat away from the center, which creates certain difficulties during operation. In this regard, ESM manufacturers have added an additional handle, which compensates for pressure on the other side and makes working with the machine easier. The handle itself can be removable or stationary. It all depends on the model. For example, the Makita BO5040/5041 has a removable handle, while the Bosch PEX 400 AE is equipped with a stationary additional handle. Special mention should be made of DWT . They equipped their EShM with side handles, which provides additional convenience when working with vertical surfaces.
Starting current limitation
The result of the sander should be a flat and smooth surface. But from the moment of launch until the start of work, the master does not always have time to adjust and make the necessary effort. As a result, the surface can be damaged, leaving unwanted grooves that will have to be sanded down. Therefore, many manufacturers equip their grinders with a soft start system. This approach is justified, especially if the wood sander is eccentric. It's all about the vibration that occurs immediately after turning on the machine. The presence of a soft start allows the ESM to gradually reach operating speeds and allow the master to adapt to them.
Pressure indicator
One of the additional functions useful for a beginner is the pressure indicator. This is especially useful for those who have not yet learned to feel their pressure on the instrument. This indicator will allow you to correct the pressure if you apply too much or too little pressure to ensure proper sanding. This feature will also be useful for professionals. It will allow you to evaluate the degree of your skill in working with an electric machine and will facilitate the grinding process itself.
Abrasive mounting option
During grinding work, there is often a need to sweep away the abrasive due to wear or in order to reduce the grain size for a smoother grind. To prevent this simple step from taking too much time, manufacturers have developed several different methods for attaching the abrasive to the sanding pad. The most common is regular Velcro . In addition to it, there is also the Quick-Fit system, which provides a modular replacement, but it is less popular. When choosing an ESM from a particular manufacturer, you need to familiarize yourself with how the abrasive will be attached so that during operation there are no problems with replacement.
In addition to the listed brands Bosch, DWT, Makita, Metabo, Rupes, Interskol and Dynorbital, there are many others, both domestic and foreign, whose products can be easily found on the shelves of large supermarkets and hardware stores. When purchasing an ESM, like any other tool, it is important to know and take into account not only its functionality and characteristics, but also the country of the manufacturer, and the materials from which the tool itself is made. After all, everything that is purchased must serve for a long time, reliably and perform its tasks efficiently.
