The Ultimate Guide To Power Tools For Sanding Discs

The component of a sander that really puts in the most effort is the sanding discs. We carry thousands of sanding discs at Benchmark Abrasives. They come in sizes ranging from 2 inches to 12 inches in discs. They all exist in a multitude of forms as well. Specific power tools work best with certain kinds of sanding discs, and they also require different types of discs.

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This article lists the many power tools to which you would want to attach a sanding disc, as well as the functions of each tool and the appropriate sanding discs for it.

HEAVY-DUTY POWER TOOLS FOR SANDING

These powerful tools are made for vigorous material removal and demanding sanding jobs.

1. Angle Grinders 

Other Names: Side Grinders, Right Angle Grinders

Overview: These strong, portable instruments are renowned for their adaptability and capacity to handle complex tasks. Thanks to a rotating disc fixed at a 90-degree angle, they are excellent at cutting, grinding, and removing material from hard surfaces like concrete, metal, and wood.

Uses: Debris removal, polishing, cutting, and surface preparation.

Benefits: Strong and adaptable; perfect for demanding jobs.

Limitations: Usually too substantial for fine-grained sanding applications.

Compatible Sanding Discs: 

• Flap Disc
• Resin Fiber Discs 
• Hook and Loop Sanding Discs
• stripes Discs
• Surface Conditioning Discs

2. Rotary Sander

Other Names: Rotary Buffer, Polisher, and Handheld Disc Sander

Overview: Handheld power tools known as rotary polishers or sanders include a circular pad that rotates rapidly on a single axis. Although some of them let you attach sanding discs, they are primarily used for polishing and finishing.

Uses: removing paint, preparing surfaces, vigorous sanding, and molding wood.

Benefits: Quick and effective in huge areas.

Limitations: Less accurate than orbital sanders; may leave swirl marks.

Compatible Sanding Discs:

• PSA Discs 
• Loop-and-Hook Discs 
• Resin Fiber Discs

MEDIUM-DUTY POWER TOOLS FOR SANDING

These compact power tools combine strength and accuracy for a range of sanding applications.

3. Stationary Discs Sanders

Other Names: Bench-Top Disc Sanders, Table Sanders, Platen Sanders, Disc Sanders Sanders on Disc

Overview: These massive sanding machines have a revolving disc fixed on a horizontal table. They provide accuracy and stability when sanding flat surfaces. These sanders work well on metal, wood, and other materials for surface preparation, edge work, and smoothing.

Uses: surface preparation, edge work, and smoothing flat surfaces.

Benefits: Reliable and effective on level surfaces.

Limitations: Stationary; unsuitable for intricate shapes.

Compatible Sanding Discs: 

• PSA Discs 
• Loop-and-Hook Discs 
• Discs for Surface Conditioning 
• Fibre Discs Made of Resin

4. Orbital Sanders (Random Orbital And DA Machines) 

Other Names: Random Orbital Dual Action Sanders

Overview: DA machines and random orbital sanders are examples of orbital sanders that use an orbital motion rather than just spinning to sand with less chance of swirl marks. These multipurpose instruments are well-liked in both vehicle bodywork and woodworking.

Uses: preliminary work, surface smoothing, and finishing sanding.

Benefits: Easy to use; swirl-free finish.

Limitations: Less forceful; not recommended for removing large amounts of stuff.

Compatible Sanding discs:

• PSA Discs 
• Sanding Discs with Vacuum Holes 
• Surface Conditioning Discs

PRECISION TOOLS FOR SANDING

Precision tools are made for complex, detailed tasks where accuracy is crucial.

5. Die Grinders

Overview: These are usually pneumatic or electric-powered precision tools. Die grinders are frequently used for fine-grained sanding and grinding. Because of their small size and excellent control, they are exceptional at managing complex tasks and confined locations.

Uses: fine grinding, deburring, and precise sanding.

Benefits: Excellent control; perfect in confined areas.

Limitations: Not appropriate for heavy lifting or expansive locations.

Compatible Sanding Discs: 

• Quick Change Discs 
• Mini Flap Discs 
• Small Strip Discs

6. Rotating Tools (Such As Dremel) 

Other Names: Rotary High-Speed Tool, Multi-Tool, and Hobby Tool 

Overview: Dremels and other rotary tools are highly flexible instruments used for a variety of intricate tasks, such as cutting, polishing, grinding, and using dremel sanding discs for dine surface finishing They are a favorite among hobbyists and do-it-yourselfers when working on small-scale crafts and fine details. 

Uses: polishing, small-scale repairs, crafting, and precise sanding. 

Benefits: Compact and versatile, ideal for challenging jobs. 

Contact us to discuss your requirements of nylon polishing disc. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.

Limitations: Not intended for large-scale or labor-intensive tasks. 

Compatible Sanding discs: work well with 2" or 3" Sanding discs

Related Article: How Long Does a Sanding Disc Last?

MULTI-USE POWER TOOLS

7. Power Drill

Other Names: Electric Drill, Cordless Drill, Right Angle Drills, Drill Drivers

Overview: Although their primary purpose is drilling, they can be modified to accommodate other sanding attachments. They are pretty maneuverable, which is useful when it might be challenging to fit different kinds of sanders.

Uses: Light to medium sanding, particularly in places that are difficult to access.

Benefits: Multipurpose, user-friendly, and suitable for do-it-yourself projects.

Limitations: Compared to specialized sanders, it is less practical for large-scale or high-precision sanding.

Compatible Sanding Discs: 

• Sanding discs attached to drills 
• Small Hooks and Loops sanding discs
• Quick Change Discs

SANDING DISC ATTACHMENT TO POWER TOOLS

Different tools, like backing pads, mandrels, and specialist backing materials, use diverse methods to connect sanding discs. Here is a quick rundown of the most often-used systems:

Hook-And-Loop (Velcro ) Attachments

• What is it? The tool's hook-covered pad is attached to the sanding disc by a looped fabric backing that resembles Velcro. 
• Standard Tools: Die grinders, DA machines, orbital sanders, and random orbital sanders. 
• Benefits: Reusable and speedy. 
• Drawback: More secure for labor-intensive jobs.

Pressure Sensitive Adhesive, Or PSA Clingy Back 

• What Is It? The tool's smooth PSA backing pad is adhered to by the discs' sticky back. 
• Standard Tools: Bench Grinders (with modifications), Disc Sanders, and Rotary Sanders. 
• Benefits: Firm grip; even sanded surface. 
• Drawback: One-time usage; occasionally challenging to remove. 

Roll-On Or Roloc Quick-Change Systems 

• What It Is? Using a specialized Roloc adapter, discs snap or twist on and off rapidly. 
• Standard Tools: Die grinders and air grinders 
• Benefits: Quick adjustments; safe for rapid operation. 
• Drawback: Needs particular attachments.

Spindle/Threaded Attachments 

• What Is It? The tool's threaded spindle is directly screwed onto the discs. 
• Standard tools: bench grinders, rotary sanders, air grinders, and angle grinders. 
• Benefits: Manages heavy-duty tasks; very secure. 
• Drawback: Changing discs takes longer.

Collets And Mandrels 

• What Is It? A shaft, mandrel, or tightening mechanism attaches little discs. 
• Standard tools: die grinders and rotary tools, such as Dremel. 
• Benefits: Versatile for small discs; precise control. 
• Drawback: Only compatible with little discs.

CONCLUSION

The range of abrasive products offered by BAXT has raised the bar by offering a premium range with competitive pricing

BAXT manufacture a wide assortment of abrasives and are quickly becoming a global leader in superior sanding and finishing products. BAXT strive to not only match the market-leading products but surpass them by innovating key unique features. This has resulted in an incomparable range of abrasives envied by all other abrasive manufactures.

As new composite material technology evolves within the Aerospace, Marine and Automotive industries so does BAXT’s extensive range of abrasives. Invest in BAXT the most up to date and high-performance consumables available.

BAXT D6 Velcro Abrasive Disc

The D6 from BAXT has been on the market for a while now, and we are still waiting for their competition to produce something that can compete. In our opinion, it outperforms all other brands in terms of price, efficiency, and durability.

It is available in a wide range of grits (P40 through to P) and its abrasive is crafted from the highest quality aluminium oxide particulate. This enables an exceptional amount of abrasion on even the toughest surfaces – including clear coat and primers.

The D6 is perfectly designed to retain integrity and operational effectiveness in high-speed sanding situations. It does this through a range of features that have been specifically engineered into this outstanding product.

The D6 is comprised of a unique combination of sanding grit, material bonding, and an anti-coagulating coating. The coating that covers each and every D6 disc has been formulated to combat the all too common issue of clogging and pill forming. (Don’t think this is just a marketing gimmick, this almost magical coating blew our minds when we put it to the test.)

We have to be honest, the D6 is one of the most durable, long lasting abrasive discs we have ever had the pleasure of using.

Nothing else really comes close to it at this price point.

BAXT S6 Abrasive Sponge Discs

Rounded gradients, corners, angled edges, and all other non-flat surfaces will be at the mercy of the S6 (without the risk of pressure marks thanks to its uniform pressure distribution).

What makes the S6 so special to us is the obviously precision-engineered density of the foam that is used on the disc. It is dense enough to ensure adequate and uniform abrasion, but soft enough to prevent cutting through lacquer when being used on edges or roundings. It is primarily designed for use wet but is just as comfortable at getting the job done with dry usage.

Its one of the best tools for the job at this low price point.

BAXT DX6 Velcro Abrasive Film Discs

The DX6 is one of the longest lasting abrasive film discs we have ever used. Its polyester backing ensures an even abrasive surface (with flexibility) that delivers an ultra smooth finish every single time.

The DX6 is available in various grits ranging from P500 to P and they are indispensable for use during polishing and blending. This is one of the hardest working and longest lasting polyester backed discs on the market thanks to several innovative features. For example, its 15 hole ventilation configuration allows consistent and efficient removal of particulate and reduces the amount of airborne dust significantly.

Like the D6 the DF6 is also covered with BAXT’s advanced anti-clogging coating that reduces the amount of clogging and pill formation massively. These two features on their own would already provide a long lasting hard working disc. But when they are combined with the fact that film discs (of any brand) last 3X longer than paper discs – the workable lifespan of these discs almost becomes silly. A must try, you will never look back.

BAXT ST7 Sanding Strips

The ST7 has been expertly engineered to produce minimal amounts of dust and fine particulate during sanding and can be machine or hand operated. This makes them ideal for people like auto detailers or yacht finishers where extreme cleanliness is essential.

The ST7 range is incredibly versatile and is available in two different lengths (198mm and 420mm), and they are available in a wide range of grits (P40 to P400). This ensures the ST7 range can be used in every situation, from large areas requiring heavy abrasion through to smaller areas that need detailed and delicate precision. The abrasive particulate is manufactured under incredibly stringent conditions and is highly uniform across every strip. This results in a much cleaner finish, in a shorter amount of time (and it means you will need to much less refinishing work).

Like nearly all the other products BAXT produces, durability is off the scale compared to other brands. The ST7 range lasts 30% longer (on average) when compared to similar products of a different brand. Again this is mainly due to the same anti-clogging coating.

BAXT SR3 Finishing Roll

The SR3 finishing roll is one of our all-time favourites from BAXT. No matter how much we use it, it just never seems to run out. Pound for pound, it lasts longer than all other finishing rolls we have used. 

The non-woven web of nylon is impregnated with grain abrasive bonded synthetic resin – all of which is manufactured using BAXT’s even abrasive particulate distribution technology.

Highly recommended.

BAXT R3 / R4 Velcro Abrasive Roll

The R3 and the R4 from BAXT represent the pinnacle of velcro abrasive technology. Both the R3 and R4 are available in 25 Meter rolls. The only difference between them is the width (The R3 is 77mm wide and the R4 is 115mm wide). 

By using the precision-engineered abrasive particulate distribution system that BAXT use on all of their products – both of these rolls will result in a clear, smooth finish that will require minimal resanding.

Both the R3 and R4 are highly durable made from incredibly thick heavyweight paper that is both long lasting and flexible. The R3 and R4 last on average 30% longer than other brands thanks to the advanced non-clogging coating. (I know we keep mentioning this coating, but honestly – it’s impressive).

The Final Word..

So there you have it. As you might have guessed by now, we really rate this brand highly. BAXT made a huge claim by naming their brand the way they did, and we think they earned the right to it.

If you have never tried them before, we highly recommend you give them a go next time you need to order new stock.

The bottom line is that their products are more durable, higher performing (and usually cheaper than) most of the other options on the market.

Are you interested in learning more about Metal Cutting Discs For Sale? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!