Can you use a dust collector instead of a festool vacuum ??????? Festool virgin

[donniec]

Well, I`ve been using the new sander for awhile. I open one gate for my sander that`s all. So far it`s working pretty well. The only thing negative is that I have worn out a hook and loop pad already. It should last longer than that. Could using my DC have anything to do with it?????

 

[tbellemare]

The pads wearing out is usually a sign of a whole lot of use or heat build up while sanding.

Airflow helps reduce heat build up. Too much airflow causes the sander to suck into the work piece, which causes heat build up.

It's a balancing game, but if you set the airflow to the maximum flow without loading the sander, you should have the optimal set up.

Tom

 

[Jim Becker]

Well, I`ve been using the new sander for awhile. I open one gate for my sander that`s all. So far it`s working pretty well. The only thing negative is that I have worn out a hook and loop pad already. It should last longer than that. Could using my DC have anything to do with it?????

This is a common issue for all sanders that use hook & loop...the pads degrade from heat. Heat is caused by friction. Excessive friction is caused by bearing down on the sander. Longest life comes when we let the sander to the work without pressing down too much. That reduces the heat. The pads will still become unsuitable at some point, but the best technique will prolong their life.

 

[Forrest Anderson]

Well, I`ve been using the new sander for awhile. I open one gate for my sander that`s all. So far it`s working pretty well. The only thing negative is that I have worn out a hook and loop pad already. It should last longer than that. Could using my DC have anything to do with it?????

As Tom and Jim have mentioned, downwards pressure on the sander and airflow are two factors which cause the heat to build up on the pad, as is the speed you set the sander at.

Be aware that Festool supply high-temperature pads, and these should last longer. Their Support Knowledgebase says:

http://www.festoolusa.com/support/Support-Article.html?ArticleID=55

Q: How long does the 6" long life pad last? What is different between the normal 6" soft pad and the long life pad?

A: The long life sanding pad (491935) will last up to three times as long as the standard sanding pad. It has a reinforced edge and a distinct hook and loop design which is more heat resistant. It is recommended for the Rotex.

The Festool USA catalogue lists it above item as:

StickFix sanding pad. For demanding applications. 9 hole/Longlife. 491935. $36.00

The Festool UK catalogue lists them as:

Sanding pad. ST-STF-D150/8-M8 W-HT. For robust use with grit up to P 220, high temperature durability burr, Diameter 150 mm. Connecting thread M8. 491935

Note that this pad has an M8 thread, and is used for the ETS 150 and the old-model Rotex RO150 (with the mode change switch on the side of the machine)

Other high-temperature pads are available for the RO125, ETS125 and new-model Rotex RO150FEQ

Forrest