Yes, you can use a DA sander as a polisher and vice versa. A DA (dual action) sander is usually used to remove imperfections in a surface and can be used for smoothing surfaces through sanding. However, when used in the opposite direction and with a polishing pad and polishing compound, it can be used to achieve a much higher level of polish.
That said, it is important to note that DA sanders are usually not as powerful as dedicated polishers and the results you can achieve with a DA sander may not be as high gloss or flawless as those achieved with a polisher.
For best results it is recommended to use a dedicated polisher when possible.
Is random orbital the same as dual action polisher?
No, random orbital and dual action polishers are not the same. Random orbit polishers have a circular motion, as the name suggests, in which the pad both rotates and orbits at the same time. Dual-action polishers, on the other hand, have an oscillating motion rather than a circular motion, in which the pad makes small, rapid circular motions.
Random orbital polishers tend to be better suited for heavy buffing and wax jobs because they provide more force than dual action polishers. On the other hand, dual action polishers are preferable for light buffing and waxing work because they are less likely to cause significant damage to paintwork.
Is a random orbital polisher better?
A random orbital polisher is definitely better in certain situations. Various factors can affect whether a random orbital polisher will be the best choice for a particular job. Random orbital polishers are best for polishing softer, non-porous surfaces such as paint finishes or for machine buffing.
They provide exceptional, even results and work with less pressure and heat than high-speed buffers, making them suitable for DIYers, who need to be careful with their work. Additionally, random orbital polishers are the safest option for polishing the delicate surfaces of classic and antique cars.
Random orbital polishers are also preferred when polishing in tight spaces, due to their smaller buffer heads. On the other hand, high-speed buffers are better for removing heavier scratches and swirl marks in harder surfaces, and can cut more material in a shorter time.
Ultimately, it depends on the material you’re working with and what your project entails.
How do you polish a car with random orbitals?
Polishing a car with random orbitals is a straightforward process, with easy-to-follow steps.
Step 1: Wash the car and make sure it is clean before beginning the polishing process. Once clean, use painter’s tape to tape off areas around the car that you would not want to polish.
Step 2: Attach the polishing pad to the random orbital sander. Depending on the pad and compound you have chosen, the pad will have a different texture. Attach the shrink-wrapped pad to the sander, using the metal hooks that are included with the sander.
Step 3: Apply a generous amount of compound to the pad and begin polishing. Starting in the middle of the car and working in circular motions, buff the car moving outward. This method prevents the pad from becoming too hot and keeps the risk of holograms to a minimum.
Use slow and even strokes as you move along the vehicle.
Step 4: Remove any remaining compound with a clean microfiber towel. Make sure you are regularly changing out the towels – this will help to make sure that you are only polishing with compound rather than marring the paint with dirt and grime particles.
Step 5: Wax the vehicle if you desire. Wax will help to provide a glossy finish to the paint and also adds additional protection from the elements.
By following these few easy steps, with the use of a random orbital sander, you can easily polish your car to create a beautiful, glossy finish.
What’s the difference between orbital and random orbital sanders?
The difference between an orbital and random orbital sander is the type of motion each produces. An orbital sander moves in small circles, while a random orbital sander produces an erratic, wobbling motion as it sands.
The circular action of an orbital sander can leave “swirl” marks in a surface whereas a random orbital sander does not. Random orbital sanders are more aggressive than orbital sanders and are more effective at removing material quickly without leaving swirl marks.
They also generate less heat, so they can be used for longer periods of time without damaging the material. Random orbital sanders are more versatile and can be used for both rough and finish sanding far better than an orbital sander.
Why is it called random orbital sander?
Random orbital sanders are named for the way in which they move during operation. This type of sander does not spin in a single direction like a traditional circular sander; rather, it vibrates in a random pattern that helps to ensure a higher level of evenness and uniformity in the sanding process.
This wild, unpredictable movement, combined with the use of a random orbital sander’s circular pad, give it its name. The random movement also helps to eliminate any marks or swirls that may be caused by traditional circular sanders due to their single direction of rotation.
As a result, random orbital sanders are the preferred choice among professional woodworking and finishing applications.
Which is better orbital or sheet sander?
It really depends on the job and which type of sander would be the most suitable for the task. Orbital sanders are generally best for giving a finish to woodwork and sheet sanders are generally better for rough sanding or sanding large, flat surfaces.
An orbital sander uses a round sanding pad which moves in a circular pattern, making it easier to sand into corners or curved surfaces. It is also good for removing lightly-bonded materials and will give a finer finish.
Sheet sanders use a flat sanding pad that moves in a back-and-forth pattern, making them more suitable for rough sanding or flat surfaces. They are also better for taking extra material off quickly, such as coarsing down body filler.
With sheet sanders you can also use specially-shaped sanding sheets, such as angles and circles. Overall, the choice between an orbital or sheet sander really comes down to what type of job you’re doing and which is going to give you the best results.
What type of car polisher is best?
The type of car polisher that is best for you depends on the type of vehicle you have, the level of detailing you require, and the budget you have available. Generally speaking, the best type of car polisher for detailing your vehicle is a dual-action polisher, as it produces less heat and has less of a chance of burning through paint.
This type of polisher vibrates and rotates in two directions, making it easier and safer to use for the novice detailer.
However, rotary polishers provide the most power and have the potential to provide amazing results. They are the preferred choice for professional detailers, however they must be used properly in order to avoid potential burning or scratching the paint.
If you are unsure of how to use a rotary polisher and want to avoid the potential of causing damage, it is best to use a dual action polisher.
Overall, the type of car polisher you choose will depend on you particular needs. If you are looking for a machine that provides a powerful clean and can be used for multiple projects, a rotary polisher may be a good choice for you.
However, if you are a beginner and simply want an easy-to-use machine for general car detailing, a dual-action polisher is the best choice for you.
Can I polish with orbital buffer?
Yes, you can polish with an orbital buffer. An orbital buffer is a type of polishing machine that is electrically powered and spins the polishing pad in an orbital motion while the machine itself moves in a circular motion.
This process is ideal for polishing hard surfaces like metal, wood, stone and concrete, as the polishing action of the machine is effective and easy to control. An orbital buffer can provide a better and more even finish than other polishing machines, and it is ideal for larger surfaces that would require too much time and effort to polish by hand.
You can also use an orbital buffer to seal, wax and buff materials, making it an all-around polishing machine.
Can you use an orbital buffer to polish a car?
Yes, you can use an orbital buffer to polish a car. An orbital buffer is a type of polishing machine that creates a smooth, uniform finish on surfaces. It works by connecting to a power source and then moving the head in rapid circular motions that disperse the polishing compound evenly.
The orbital action of the buffer prevents it from leaving permanent scratches in the surface and it also ensures that a consistent pressure is applied to the surface. When used properly, an orbital buffer can produce a deep, long-lasting shine on any car finish.
Besides polishing the car, an orbital buffer can also be used to buff out light scratches, remove staining and contaminants, and wax or seal the finish. It’s important to read the instructions carefully and to wear safety gear when using an orbital buffer as it can produce a lot of heat and friction.
Can you damage paint with a DA polisher?
Yes, you can damage paint with a DA (dual-action) polisher. If you do not use the proper technique with the polisher, it is possible to cause burning to the surface of the paint, which will become obvious as dull spots or swirl marks.
To avoid damaging the paint surface, it is important to set the polisher’s speed correctly. Be sure to start out on the lowest speed setting and adjust accordingly. You should also use short passes, making sure to overlap your strokes by a few millimeters.
Also, you should use an even pressure when polishing and only apply enough pressure to get the pad to spin. Finally, avoid making too many passes on that same area, as this can cause too much heat to build up and burn the paint.
It is highly recommended that if you plan to use a DA polisher on your paint, that you test it on a smaller inconspicuous section first to practice the technique to ensure you do not make any mistakes on your full paint job.