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Best 12" Disk Sander

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Jan 27, 2005
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My current sander is too sloppy for the segment work I want to do. Can anyone recommend a good quality disc sander at least 12"? Don't need a belt sander, but would take it if the disc part is good quality.
 
best for the job

I have a Delta 31-120 12" sander for this job. The bed is strong, alignable to the face (just like you need it) and with enough power to get the job done. You will need a vac dust collection system to maximize your sanding. Check it out at http://www.deltamachinery.com/index.asp?e=136&p=831. I paid $139.00 but have found them at machinery dealers for as low as $99.99
Captain Eddie
 
Howdy Cap'n,

I've seen extreme mixed reviews on this machine. Either a rave or trashing it. Seems to be a lot of machine-to-machine variability.

You got a very good price. Closest thing I see on the web is $169. I'd grab it at $99, but I'm still thinking about $169.

Did you measure the runout by any chance?

Joe 😕
 
Blackhorse,
This is probably not what you want to hear, but if you are really serious about doing a lot of segmented turning, you should save your pennies for a 20†sander. The combination of additional capacity and a “crank-adjustable†table (angle and height) will make your projects soooo much easier. The Woodtech 20†is a good value, but it’s about a $1,000. Short of that, get the best 12" that you can afford; skimping on price will haunt you forever.
 
Sander

I have the Jet 12" sander and it is nice and has more power than the Delta, but I think the Delta is just as good of a choice. I also agree that if you can spring the 20" is a lot better when dealing with largeer rings.

Let me also say that since I upgraded my Incra 3000 with the miter express I have not had to sand my segments and have better fitting rings. It is a marvelous invention and you can still use the miter guage normally by just unlocking it from the sled.

Vernon
 
We have the Jet 12". Very solid unit. TEFC as well in the event that you might use it for metal (which we do).
 
Oh, boy. I was hoping no one would say what tahoeturner said. Since I am currently reading his book, I think I'd better listen.

wa5fdf, some experts say that, despite the accuracy of your miter, sanded segments give better looking glue lines.

Joe
 
Sander Question

Do any of those sanders have multiple speeds, maybe with stepped pulleys? My old 6x48 with 12" disc is way too fast for some types of sanding, or sanding some kinds of work. Obviously am not current on new sander features, but urge consideration of multi-speed machines if they are out there.
 
I might suggest the cheapest way and maybe the most accurate would be to attach a plywood or MDF disk to a large faceplate, true it up on the lathe, attach a sanding disk, make a small table that fits over the lathe ways, and you are in business! I have done this for years and it works well, haven't tried to make any segmented bowl parts but this works for accurate sanding for any thing else I have tried. Accurate, cheap, adjustable speed, no extra tools taking up floor space, etc.
 
Sage has good advise, one I had planned to give myself. You can get 12 and 20 inch PSA disks from Woodworkers Supply, they also have conversion kits and H&L disks for 12 inch.
 
I have a 12" disc sander an old AMT with 1hp and reverseable. I purchased this machine in 1997 and it has been indispensable. A designated machine works best for me and does not tie up a lathe for any reason. If that machine ever dies, I would strongly consider the one by Jet. This is the 12" model with stand and dust collector. A 20" would be great if I had enough commissions to make a segmented turning that size. Link for Jet

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00006J6PR/ref=nosim/102-5525044-2148158?n=228013
 
Bigger the better?

tahoeturner said:
...you should save your pennies for a 20†sander

Maybe you can find one used. I have a late 1960's vintage STATE 20" disk sander, a hand-me-down from my dad's pattern shop, still going strong after all these years.
 
Sanding vs table saw

I know Curt Theobald uses sanding and Linda Salter uses an Incra 5000. I have used both and frankly I can't a tell tinkers darn when the ring is tightly fitted. Course that's just my opinion.

I still like the sander best when putting feature ring glue ups together. I think it really comes down to what you are most comfortable with that day. Of course as a friend once said "I've never met a tool I didn't like".

Vernon
 
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