Rotex Sanders

[tbellemare]

The DTS also has a bevelled edge on the pad so the hard part isn't sticking out. Aside from the shape, that's the big difference between it and the RTS.

Tom

 

[mbcabinetmaker]

Warning slightly off topic: I wish Festool made an ETS 125/5. With a larger stroke and a few more amps of power it would be a nice sander that could remove material faster. It would be perfect for a project like Tom's. I'd buy one in a heartbeat.
[/quote]

I could not agree more!! This is the sander that Festool could sell to professional cabinet shops. The 6 inch sanders are to just large to sand face frames and style and rail doors. I just returned a ETS 125 that I bought 3 weeks ago in favor of the Rotex 125. The ETS is just not aggressive enough. I have Dynabrade 5 inch DA air sanders and the Rotex is now my favorite sander in the shop. I think it is the only sander that will "Do it all".  [wink]

Mark

 

[Dave Ronyak]

Anyone wanting a more aggressive 5 inch RO sander should keep their eyes peeled for introduction of Mirka's palm grip, paddle switched electric sander.  It looks identical to their pneumatic sander of the same size, but is driven by a VS DC motor.  The speed control dial is located near to where the long, heavy duty electric cord enters the sander.  The DC convertor box is intended to be placed under your work table or other remote location.  I've given this little gem a test run at two woodworking shows, the latest on Feb 19, 2010.  USA introduction is being held up for UL approval.  Estimated pricing is ~US$450.  Mirka has also recently introduced a new line of sanding disk abrasives for aggressive stock removal.  I used an 80 grit disk to quickly remove old catalyzed lacquer/varnish and stain from an old cherry cabinet door.  The dust collector outlet of this Mirka sander will accept Festool's hose directly -- the fitting remains on the Mirka sander and the hose is screwed into the fitting by rotating the fitting.

Dave R.