RO150FEQ

[e39frank]

This afternoon I started getting spiral images (pigtails) in Pine wood.  This hasn't happened before and I would like some things to check out from the group. Thanks in advance.  I am using Brilliant 120 grit paper.

 

[Administrator_JSVN]

Frank,

I am sure the rest of the members will have recommendations.  Always make sure you are letting the sander do the work and not applying too much pressure.  That often will contribute to swirling.

 

[e39frank]

Thanks Shane. I used the sander for several months and still catch myself applying pressure especially if a vertical surface.  Perhaps related is the CT22E Dust Collector. I had to reuse the collection bag yesterday as the replacements I ordered were for a smaller version.  I just checked and sanding dust has escaped the "repaired bag" and is covering the collection area. Though disappointing I guess that doesn't harm anything? I thought perhaps the pad was worn and of course the spare pad is for another model as well. It uses the center nut instead of locking ring. 

 

[John Langevin]

Others feel free to chime in, but check to make sure the abrasive is not getting loaded up. Also try varying the dust extractor speed setting; sometimes if it is holding the pad down too tightly the pad will load and cause swirl marks. If you previously sanded with a coarser grit be sure to wipe the surface clean before proceeding.

 

[bruegf]

The only time I've seen swirling on my RO125 is when the paper gets loaded up.

Fred

 

[Jerry Work]

Swirling can also occur when you move the sander too quickly across the work surface.  Let the sander to the work and guide it at a rate of about 6" per second or slower.  If you do find swirl marks as you get to finer grits, revert to a 120 grit to remove the marks, then progress back up.  Tipping the sander to get rid of some defect will nearly always result in swirl marks later in the grit sequence.  I find grits up to 120 do all the shaping and flattening of the wood.  From there on up you are only removing the marks left by the previous coarser grit.  Hope this helps.

Jerry

 

[tvgordon]

Frank.

I've noticed swirl marks also, but it is usually when I'm using a coarse grit to remove a lot of wood quickly.  They've always disappeared after I sand with finer grits.  I was sanding hardwood though.  Since you are sanding softwood, I agree with the other guys that maybe a lighter touch, slower pace or finer grits might help with the problem.

Tom.