rs 2 pad flatness question

[zapdafish]

How flat are the rs 2 sanding pads supposed to be. I just bought a new one.I thought the one that came with my used rs 2 was no longer flat because the only part of the paper that contacted the surface was the area between the vacum holes. It seemed that I was losing quite abit of sanding surface area since the edges to the holes never touched the surface I was sanding. Lo and behold, the same thing is happening with the new pad.

thnx

 

[tbellemare]

If you can make an image showing the flatness against a straighedge, and especially if you can show it with a measuring device, I can compare it to other factory new similar parts.

Tom

 

[zapdafish]

thnx.  this is a new camera, first time trying to pull stuff off of it.

 

[ScotF]

I think it is supposed to dip on each end -- it helps sanding past an edge and keeps things flat.  I read a post about the pad somewhere on the FOG and mine is the same way.  I think it also helps minimize vibration.

Scot

 

[Administrator_JSVN]

The feathering on the edges of the pad is normal.

 

[zapdafish]

ok, thnx. But feathered might be understating it, hehe

 

[wubears71]

Interesting.  I've never noticed that on my RS 2E, but I haven't had any issues with the sander not performing as expected.  This is probably my favorite, most used sander.  I just wish it had a plug-it cord.

 

[nickao]

If those edges were stick flat there would be a tendency for the sander to grab at the edges and gouge the work. With these types of sander that used to be common until they started to feather the edges. When you actually use the sander you will find that you will get a totally flat surface. As you are using the sander and applying it to the work the edges are not lifted off the work at all, but lightly touching, lighter than the center is touching, which is good.

 

[semenza]

You could test how well the edges are sanding , by sanding into a corner.

Seth

 

[zapdafish]

I haven't used a sander of this type before.

With all the talk comparing the ro150 and ro125, usually surface area comes up and the sandpaper on my ro150 always wears evenly so I was kinda expecting the same thing on my rs2 sandpaper. No worries then if what I am seeing is by design and now I have a backup pad.

This is my goto sander now as well. In addition to the plugit cord, I also wish it werent an oval sander port. When I attach the hose, It feels like I am degrading the hose connector alot faster than when I connect it to my other festools.

 

[ScotF]

A Plug-it would be great, but it is not all that important to me.  I agree, this is my go-to sander for most things since I got it a few months ago.  My only regret was that I wished I bought it earlier.  If more people bought them, then maybe they would bring the updated version to N. America.

Scot   

 

[oldie]

Well, well, well.  I have had to contain how I express myself; it's early in the morning here - probably should go to bed
I'm potentially not a happy bunny at all. Why?

I bought a 2nd hand RS 200 for express purpose of sanding down panels, on the basis that it would sand into the corners nicely - rather than use the RO150, followed up with the RTS (I know Alex, the DTS is on my wish list  [smile] .)

The Festool UK website has this to say: 'Ability to sand up to the edge on three sides.'  Get my drift.
Obviously, what has been claimed about the advantages of the 'feathered' edge makes complete sense - but that's not what Festool are saying is it?

So can the thing sand easily into corners, or can't it?  I have yet to buy new pads, so not in a position to judge yet - but I am pleased this query has been posted.  Raised my awareness.

So what now?  I guess Festool will (immediately) have to start supplying two variants of the pad: semi-circular, and, flat!  [unsure]

Once more, would really appreciate input from more experienced users.  Many thanks in advance.

Time for a really, really strong cup of tea.  Richard.