The difference between an orbital sander and a rotary sander lies in their functionality and the way they operate. I have personally used both types of sanders in various projects, and I can share my experiences to help explain the differences.
Let’s start with the orbital sander. This type of sander is designed to move in a circular motion while simultaneously vibrating in random patterns. The circular motion ensures that the sanding pad covers a large area, while the random vibrations prevent any noticeable patterns from forming on the surface being sanded. This is particularly useful when working on delicate or intricate surfaces, as it reduces the risk of leaving visible marks or swirls.
The orbital sander is also equipped with a round pad that attaches to the tool’s motor via a mechanism that allows it to move in both circular and random patterns. This means that the pad doesn’t receive the full power of the motor, but rather a combination of the circular and random movements. As a result, the sanding action is less aggressive compared to a rotary sander.
On the other hand, a rotary sander operates differently. It has a round pad as well, but unlike the orbital sander, the pad is directly linked to the tool’s motor. This means that the pad receives the full power of the motor, resulting in a more aggressive sanding action. The rotary sander spins the pad in a continuous circular motion without any random vibrations.
The direct link between the pad and the motor in a rotary sander allows for more control over the sanding process. It is particularly useful when working on tough materials or when aggressive sanding is required to remove heavy material or stubborn finishes. However, it also means that the rotary sander is more likely to leave visible marks or swirls on the surface being sanded if not used with caution.
In terms of vibration, the orbital sander tends to produce more noticeable vibrations due to its random pattern. This can be tiring for your hands and arms during extended use. On the other hand, the rotary sander, being a purely spinning motion, doesn’t vibrate as much, making it slightly more comfortable to use for longer periods.
To summarize, the main differences between an orbital sander and a rotary sander are the sanding motion and the level of aggressiveness. The orbital sander combines circular and random patterns, making it ideal for delicate surfaces, while the rotary sander provides a continuous circular motion, making it more suitable for tougher materials. The choice between the two depends on the specific project and the desired sanding outcome.