Electric tools

Sanders & grinders

What is the difference between an orbital sander and a random orbital sander?

Random orbit sander
A random orbital sander is a hand held control device that sands in a random orbit activity. Random orbital sanders incorporate the pace and militancy of a strap sander with the capability to create a better finish than that obtainable from a normal, slow speed orbital finishing sander. Random orbital sanders typically come in three various types: electric powered, air powered, and orbital base sanders. The air powered and electric orbital sanders are portable, while the base orbital sanders are big machines that cruise.

Orbit sander
An orbital sander, also known as a quarter sheet sander, operates by moving the sanding pad in a circular motion. It features a square or rectangular sanding pad that moves in small, tight orbits. The motion is primarily in a back and forth direction. You can even utilize them to vacate rust or stain. These orbital sanders are perfect for fast sanding requirements. You can utilize them to gloss surfaces such as rugged metal, timber, or plastic. These sanders are skillfully operated on matte surfaces and should be fitted with even force across the front of the pad. You can buy these Orbit Sandler from these brands: Makita, Bosch, Wolfcraft, Dewalt, and Metabo.

What is the difference between an orbital sander and a random orbital sander?

An orbital sander and a random orbital sander are two different types of power sanders used for smoothing and refining surfaces. While they may seem similar, there are key differences between them:

Key features of an orbital sander include:
Simple and lightweight design, making it easy to handle and maneuver. Uses regular sandpaper sheets that are cut or folded to fit the sanding pad. Provides smooth and fine sanding results.
Well suited for small to medium sized projects or detailed work.
Generally less aggressive compared to a random orbital sander.
Affordable and suitable for occasional or light duty sanding tasks.
Random orbital sander: A random orbital sander, also known as a dual action sander, combines both orbital and rotary movements. It features a round sanding pad that moves in random elliptical orbits while simultaneously spinning.
Key features of a random orbital sander include:

More complex mechanism and design, with a motor that generates both rotary and orbital motion.
Utilizes hook and loop Velcro sanding discs that adhere to the sanding pad. Provides a combination of aggressive material removal and smooth finishing.
Reduces the risk of swirl marks or circular patterns on the work surface.
Suitable for a wide range of projects, from rough sanding to fine finishing.
Offers better control and reduces the chance of sanding in a single direction.
The random orbital sander is generally more versatile and commonly used for larger projects, such as sanding large flat surfaces, removing paint or varnish, or preparing wood for finishing. It is also more effective at minimizing visible sanding marks compared to an orbital sander.

In summary, while both sanders serve the purpose of sanding surfaces, an orbital sander moves in a circular motion, while a random orbital sander combines circular and orbital movements. The random orbital sander provides more versatility, control, and better finishing capabilities, making it a preferred choice for many woodworking and refinishing tasks.