Product category:
Portable power tools
News Release from: 3M Abrasive Systems Division | Subject: Air-powered random orbital sanders
Edited by the Manufacturingtalk Editorial
Team on 16 November 2007
Random orbital sanders meet vibration
directive
Designed from 'first principles', a range of air-powered random orbital sanders has good vibratory performance allowing workers to work comfortably for longer.
3M has entered into the power tool market by introducing a range of air-powered random orbital sanders The sanders have been developed with the operator in mind and offer a complete abrasive sanding system, said 3M
This article was originally published on Manufacturingtalk on 2 Jun 2008 at 8.00am (UK)
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3M has designed its system from first principles so that it operates as an integrated whole.
A key aspect of this is the back-up pad, designed specifically to complement the tool and precision balanced to help reduce vibration.
Orbital sanders tend to generate enough vibration to bring them under control of the European hand arm vibration regulations, which protect workers' health by setting limits on their exposure to such conditions.
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3M said that a tool with good vibratory performance allows workers to work comfortably for longer, alleviating health concerns and optimising productivity.
In addition, the 3M Air-Powered Random Orbital Sander has an impressive power-to-weight ratio, meaning increased operator efficiency with associated time and cost savings.
Technical manager in 3M's Industrial and Transportation Business, Cheri Hayne, explained: "Operator comfort and efficiency are important expectations for the industry.
3M strives to offer benefits for both health and productivity.
By designing our sander and back-up pad together, we've been able to create a finely balanced machine, helping to reduce vibration levels without affecting performance".
The 3M sanders will be available with a range of hand grip sizes so that both control and comfort can be tailored to the individual user.
The tool's low-profile design offers a more immediate sense of the surface being sanded, increasing operator control and helping to ensure a high-quality finish, whilst reducing user fatigue.
Eight configurations of the sander will be available so it can be matched to a broad range of applications and operating environments.
A choice of 127 or 152mm sizes - each with either 2.5 or 5mm orbit - are available, along with the option of central vacuum or self-generated dust extraction system.
This incorporates a venturi design, which uses the exhaust from the air powering the tool to induce a vacuum without the need for an external vacuum line.
In addition, 3M has developed a proprietary high-efficiency filtration bag that mounts directly onto the tool, freeing the user both from the cumbersome traditional hose and paper or felt filter bags.
* Sanding complex shapes - Hayne told manufacturingtalk.com: "The self-generated vacuum variants offer excellent freedom of operation, This is particularly useful for working on complex shapes and again makes life more comfortable and convenient for the operator".
To maximise the performance of its air-powered random orbital sander system, 3M offers a full range of abrasive consumables for a wide variety of applications.
The back up pad incorporates a universal hole pattern that can be used with any abrasive disc hole configuration.
A combination of the right tool with the right abrasives gives the right result.
3M has an extensive understanding of abrasives and the company's technical specialists will be able to help customers identify the best tool system and working practices for each of their applications.
The company will continue to expand its range of air-powered hand tools throughout 2008.
Each tool will be the product of extensive research and benchmarking to ensure the class-leading performance and quality that industrial customers expect from 3M.
* About 3M - 3M is a US$22.9 billion diversified technology company, developing innovative products that help make the world smarter, faster, healthier and safer.
Well known 3M brands include Scotch, Post-it, Scotchgard, Thinsulate and Scotch-Brite.
3M has pioneered innovation since 1902 and, today, invests more than US$1.5 billion a year in R and D.
It has applied its expertise in RFID technology to deliver biometric passports; it is using its understanding of the healthcare industry to provide hospitals with infection prevention solutions; and its digital signage offerings are set to revolutionise the way businesses communicate with their customers, their employees and the general public.
3M employs 75,000 people worldwide to deliver more than 55,000 products to customers in some 200 countries.
Its diverse technologies touch nearly every aspect of modern life, serving markets such as consumer and office, display and graphics, electronics and communications, safety, security and protection services, healthcare, industrial and transportation.
The UK and Ireland is home to one of the largest 3M subsidiaries outside the USA, employing 3850 people across 17 locations, including 11 manufacturing sites.
Products manufactured in the UK include coated abrasives, respirators, adhesive tapes, industrial microbiology products, drug delivery systems, high-performance coatings, secure documents and passport scanners.
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