Oscillating drum sander washboard effect
For several months I have been using a Jet 22-44 oscillating drum sander. The oscillating feature is great and it has almost become a substitute for my planer. I recently discovered one major problem with the machine or rather a problem with my operation of the machine.
I sanded a tabletop that is about 24″ x 55″ taking it through 180 grit then lightly finishing with 180 in my random orbit sander. Applied several coats of finish and when I moved it next to a window with side light I discovered that the top looked like a washboard. Apparently the oscillating drum creates the washboard effect as it moves back and forth.
Needless to say, I had to strip and refinish the top. My error seemed to be not running the top through until there is very little contact with the drum and not running it through for a final sanding without the oscillating feature engaged. Even with this technique I can still see some very light ripples that must be removed by hand.
Would be interested to hear other’s experiences with this sander and how they have handled the problem.
Thanks for any comments.
Replies
What percentage of the work you use it for is a "substitute for your planer?" That's a pretty lightweight machine, and the description I've read indicates "light dimensioning" and "occasional abrasive planing."
Oscillating drum sander washboard effect
I do not use it for dimensioning rough cut stock but I do find it very useful for stock that needs some light planing, especially pieces where I want to avoid sniping. Although I could take steps to avoid sniping on the planer, it is so much quicker and easier to just step over to the sander and run the piece through a couple of times. The oscillating feature virtually eliminates gum build up from glue lines and I have yet to have a belt break or tear while in oscillating mode. It is quite aggressive when using the heavier grits.
I have tried a non-oscillating drum sander and found it very frustrating because of gumming, tears, breaks and the extremely light passes required. I think part of my problem with the washboard effect was being too complacent with the aggressive sanding in the oscillating mode.
Not sure about a Jet but I use my non-oscillating drum sander for surfacing all the time. Maybe for the final few passes run it at a slower feed speed? Not sure....
Oscillating drum sander washboard effect
Thanks for your suggestion regarding the feed rate. The Jet manual advises that when sanding in oscillating mode the feed speed should be set at the maximum rate. Not sure what the reasoning is for this instruction. It would seem logical that slowing the feed rate might eliminate the washboard effect.
I must point out that the washboard type ripples are not readily visible which might be attributable to these old eyes. I did not feel them on the surface. The wood is maple and I did not see them until I put on a dark finish and had the piece at the right angle to the incoming light. Under those conditions, the ripples were quite apparent.
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