Previously I used Siarex with fair results. Before Christmas while at a woodworking show I purchased a batch of high temperature bonded 2" disks. On the first off while power sanding spalted birch the paper flew away and the backing remained on the Velcro pad. I informed the vendor. The reply was that It could be just one defective disk. Then vendor also stated that if I had more than twelve delaminated to mail them properly labeled for investigation. Since then, after 2-3 minutes of sanding, either the sand paper folds and surface cracks quickly appear and it starts to delaminate. The situation is such that I stop using these disks and are now back with Siarex. Before sending a sample batch of twelve delaminated disks for investigation I want to ascertain that there are no wrong doing from my part. Any comments would be appreciated.
Question on Sand Paper
Feb 01, 2004
7 Replies
Happens when you generate heat, I know. Which is why I like to steady my sanding handpiece on the toolrest and just kiss the turning. No heat, no delamination.
If, on the other hand, while sanding my spoon bowls, I'm a bit careless and press too hard for too long, or trying to act frugal and using a tired-out piece by doing the same, they delaminate. Makes no difference who made the discs.
investigation
True. Sandpaper will only cut so fast. Pressing harder won't achieve much beyond overheating the workpiece and the paper. This is the #1 error made by woodworkers. A gentle touch is productive in the case of turnings, where the piece is revolving as well as the paper/mandrel, potentially generating lots of heat. Be patient and the results will be better.
Max
Denis, If you're not at your slowest lathe speed, try that, and use light pressure. That should generate minimum heat and save your discs.
Ken Moon Webberville, TX
investigation
Thanks for everyone for their feedback. At the rate I am going now I use one 2" disk for each grit per 6 inches bowl. At time, the disk delaminates before I complete one pass. I starts at 600 - 800 RPM with 80 - 100 grit applying merely the weigh of the 1/4 variable hand drill and holding it firmly. I applied just enough pressure so I can see a streak of dust being sucked at a regular rate by the dust collector. At the end of one outside and inside pass I use a brush to remove the fine dust before moving to the next grit. Then I go on with
120, 150, 180, 220, 280, 320 and 400 grit. Still using this method the abrasive cracks up, disintegrates and the back up and paper delaminates. This takes place only with the batch of paper bought at the woodworking show. With the sanding papers purchased at the local Industrial store I do not have those problems. Now until I can solve those problems I went back to my original procurement source.Sounds like you have a perfect case against the paper.
Sounds like faulty product - or misapplication of product (too heavy or wrong material used for the backing for this application).
That sounds like the best solution - go with what works for you. (I've had great results using both Mirka Royal and Mirka Bulldog lines of papers with, IIRC, B and C weight backings. I also use the Abralon line for finishing - ala Cindy Drozda's recommendations and have been very pleased.)
_____ American Association of Woodturners Cascade Woodturners Assoc., Portland, Oregon Northwest Woodturners, Tigard, Oregon _____
delaminates.
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