Depth of Cut |
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The optimum depth of cut will vary based on the type of wood, feed rate, and sandpaper grit. Under most sanding conditions, the depth should not exceed 0.006" (0.15 mm) (approx. 1⁄4 turn of the handwheel). Each full turn of the crank handle raises the conveyor table approximately 0.027" (0.69 mm). Attempts to remove too much material can cause jamming, wood burning, rapid paper wear or tearing, poor finish, belt slippage, and motor damage.
To set the depth of cut:
1.Rotate the crank handle (Figure 9) until the table is well below the sanding drum, then raise the table, allowing a gap between the workpiece and the drum.
Note: When adjusting the table to sand a thicker workpiece, lower and then raise the table to remove backlash from the adjust- ment mechanism. If the table is lowered too far, the conveyor belt may rub against the chain, leaving grease on the belt.
Figure 9. Setting depth of cut.
2.Turn the sander ON, start the conveyor (see Variable Speed, on this page), and feed the workpiece into the sander. SLOWLY raise the conveyor table until the workpiece makes light contact with the sanding drum. This is the correct height to begin sanding the workpiece.
The variable speed knob allows you to increase the feed rate from 0–15 FPM. The correct speed to use depends on the type of stock you are using (hardwood vs. softwood) and the stage of finish you are at with that workpiece.
As a general rule, a slower feed rate will sand the surface smoother, but runs the risk of burning the wood; a faster feed rate will remove material faster, but runs the risk of overloading the motor. Use trial-and-error to determine the best settings for your specific applications.
To adjust the conveyor speed:
1.Start the conveyor.
2.Rotate the variable speed knob (Figure 10) clockwise to increase the feed speed, or counterclockwise to decrease the feed speed.
Figure 10. Variable speed knob.
G0459 12" Drum Sander |