Organizer Insert for RO150 in SYS 3

[Dan Pfeiffer]

Since we like this stuff as much (more?) than actual work completed with the tools ...

I re-made the insert in my Sys 3 for my RO150 so it used the space better.  I can fit all the paper I need for a job, several pads and the cord.  I also accidentally made it so it neatly holds the RO150 with paper and my RTS400 with paper.  A cord will still fit on top though I have a cord wrapped in a sleeve with the vac hose so I don't have the cords in with the tools. 

I used a scrap of 3/8 Baltic Birch ply and some scraps of 1/8" masonite (the denser version - smooth on both sides).  I cut grooves with a 1/8" router bit and glued it together with epoxy since it is very strong and does well filling gaps and making fillets.  I just used the plastic insert for a guide to cut the ply.  Could be a better fit but I'll never know the difference. 

Have similar plans for my PS300 which is a mess with no good way to hold the blade packs.  Maybe the Domino too.  Seems a little tougher with the deep systainers for the TS55 and OF1400.

Dan Pfeiffer

 

[AlexThePalex]

I agree Festool inserts are not that efficient with space. But it is not good to store your Rotex permantly like that, standing up. It is important to lay them on their side to prevent deformation of the pad. Festool inserts are made such that all pressure is relieved from the pad.

 

[Dan Pfeiffer]

I agree Festool inserts are not that efficient with space. But it is not good to store your Rotex permantly like that, standing up. It is important to lay them on their side to prevent deformation of the pad. Festool inserts are made such that all pressure is relieved from the pad.

Seriously?  I did not know that.  Seems like they suffer far more abuse in typical use?  I leave it sitting on the pad all the time on the table next to my work.Can you source that bit of info?  I have never seen that though I can't say I've been looking.  I don't see any mention in the manual.

Thanks,  Dan Pfeiffer

 

[sae]

Maybe just flip it upside down then? Add a piece of foam to cradle it.

 

[AlexThePalex]

I don't have a source for that online. It's knowledge I was taught at a very young age in my fathers' bodyshop. Respect your pads.

Sanding pads are made out of a very dense rubbery foam. If they are compressed temporarily in use they will spring back. But, if they are compressed for a prolonged time, like in storage, at one point they will lose their elasticity and be permanently deformed. Especially angled sanders have this problem because the center of gravity is not straight above the pad but to the side. 

In case of the Rotex in your insert, it can probably be avoided if you make something to support the back so the sander stands always absolutely straight. 

 

[Dan Pfeiffer]

I don't have a source for that online. It's knowledge I was taught at a very young age in my fathers' bodyshop. Respect your pads.

Sanding pads are made out of a very dense rubbery foam. If they are compressed temporarily in use they will spring back. But, if they are compressed for a prolonged time, like in storage, at one point they will lose their elasticity and be permanently deformed. Especially angled sanders have this problem because the center of gravity is not straight above the pad but to the side. 

In case of the Rotex in your insert, it can probably be avoided if you make something to support the back so the sander stands always absolutely straight. 

Yes, I had thought about that.  that's what I will do.  Then pressure on that pad will be even.  Tried to do that with the foam holder pad that's glued to the top but it was too large.  I will come up with something else. 

Dan Pfeiffer

 

[Dan Pfeiffer]

Assuming it is supported and level, how is this more abuse than actually using the pad for sanding? 

Dan Pfeiffer

 

[TheTrooper]

Festool 2015 Catalog 176 Festool 2015 Catalog

SANDER TIPS:
• When storing sanders, or when they are not in use, leave a sheet of abrasive on the pad to protect the surface of the pad from picking up stray debris that may later project through the sanding disc and into the workpiece. Leaving an abrasive on the pad also helps to prevent inadvertent use which further protects the pad from misuse.
• The Edge Protector provided with the Rotex sanders not only protects the pad and abrasive from damage, but also protects those surfaces from inadvertent pad contact. Further, it minimizes hand-sanding operations by allowing sanding close to the abutting surface, such as joints, edges, trim, and casing.

www.festoolusa.com 177
festoolusa.com
176
Edit, I swear I just read that also about storing them pad down.  Just flip the sander over.

 

[TheTrooper]

The idea is that the constant weight of the sander resting in one edge of a pad causes it to bend upward and when in use it will throw the balance off and doesn't come in full contact with the substrate.

 

[Dan Pfeiffer]

The idea is that the constant weight of the sander resting in one edge of a pad causes it to bend upward and when in use it will throw the balance off and doesn't come in full contact with the substrate.

Yes I get that.  Makes perfect sense that the pad could have deformation from sitting on the edge.  I will address that with some support under the end of the sander.  My question is, assuming the sander is supported and level, how is this more abuse than actually using the pad for sanding which I would expect imparts much higher forces?

Dan Pfeiffer

 

[TheTrooper]

If the pad is resting level it will be fine.  The difference related to resting at an angle vs normal use.  My thoughts are that normal use would generally be 6 hours a day  vs resting pressure at and angle for the remaining 18 hours of the day. And that's assuming that you use it each day for 6 hours.  But if your set up has it supported and level then there is no issue. If I was adding foam to hold the sander level then personally I would leave the pad off of a surface by ¼" just to be safe.