As a newbie woodworker, it’s quite hard to use a drum sander. How to use a drum sander woodworking? Let’s click on the post below to get the complete guide.
Sander machine
You may find out several ways to sand wood, but using a drum sander is still the best one. If you want to become a skillful woodworker, it’s better to use this tool.
How to use a drum sander woodworking? In general, you only need to follow five basic steps:
- Step 1: Prepare necessary tools and equipment
- Step 2: Install the drum sander
- Step 3: Start the sander
- Step 4: Sand your wood floor
- Step 5: Finish your task
This article provides you with the ultimate instructions to make your task easier.
How To Use A Drum Sander Woodworking?
A drum sander is very versatile for many woodworking purposes. It has a simple design with the main part including a drum, also called a spinning cylinder. Despite being a basic tool, it can cause some difficulties while using, especially for beginners.
If you are unsure how to perform your sanding task for the first time, let’s refer to the following guide. Scroll down!
Step 1: Prepare Necessary Tools And Equipment
The first step is you need to choose the right type of drum sanders. There are two main drum kinds, including open and closed ones. Each variety has a specific purpose in sanding.
For example, the open type lets you pass through wide objects such as doors, flooring, and cabinet walls. On the other hand, the closed sort works better in smaller things.
Next, prepare various sandpaper grits to deal with different corners and edges of the floors. Also, it would be best to get yourself ready by wearing protective gear to protect you from accidents like irritants, cuts, knocks, or bruises.
Here are the required things:
- Work boots
- Gloves
- Goggles
- Helmet
- Ear protectors
- Dust respirator mask
Protective gear for woodworking
Step 2: Install The Drum Sander
To set up this tool, you can apply the following tips:
- Fasten the handle to the receiver.
- Make sure the clamp is locked to avoid falling free while the sander is running.
- Keep the power cord in a place by twisting it.
- In the handle, there are two holes. Let’s put the dust tube in the left one.
- Put the dust bag over the open end of the dust tube, loop it around, and then push the rubber ring downwards to tighten it.
Step 3: Start The Sander
Most of the tools have an ON/OFF button to start the machine. Thus, this step is extremely straightforward. All you need to do is press the button on the ON mode to start sanding.
Start the machine
Step 4: Sand Your Wood Floor
After starting the equipment, lower the tip by pulling up the main handle of the sander. Immediately, your machine touches wood and creates a strong tug. Don’t panic! Try to hold the machine tight; everything will go into its order in no time.
Use enough resistance to push the tool forward gently. The machine will start its work right now. Your mission is to control its tempo and move it evenly.
While sanding, you should avoid objects around if you don’t want to get them damaged.
Sanding wood floor
Step 5: Finish Your Task
You only need to press the button to make it in the OFF mode. Also, remember to clean the dust bag and tube.
Finish your work
You can discover more about using this tool via this video:
Considerations When Sanding Wood Floor With A Drum Sander?
As you can see, it is not too difficult to install and control this machine. That said, there are some considerations for you when using this equipment.
- You should avoid dust accumulation inside the machine by always getting plug holes and air grilles covered.
- Before starting your work, take the doors and window coverings down.
- Never lift or drop the machine if you stand still. This action will cause a stop mark on your floor.
- Whenever you sand the wood floor, if you detect any floorboards, you should nail them down with finished nails.
- Make sure nails are countersunk approximately ⅛ inches to protect the machine. If you detect a raised nail, use pliers to pull it out.
- If there is a base shoe, remove it before sanding the floor. You can reinstall it after finishing your task.
- Between sandpaper grades, you should vacuum the floor to limit damaging risk.
- Remember to open all doors while performing work so that you do not breathe in dust.
Considerations while using the machine
Safety Precautions When You Sand Floor With A Drum Sander
You should be aware that this machine is quite dangerous, and the sanding task may be risky if you don’t obey safety measures.
It’s compulsory to obey the safety precautions while carrying out this job.
- Wear goggles while sanding to prevent dust particles from flying into your eyes. Although the machine comes with a dust tube and dust bag, you must use goggles during the sanding procedure for your absolute safety.
- Don’t take off your dust respirator mask during the process if you don’t want to get respiratory problems. The amount of dirt and dust is incredibly enormous.
- It’s better to wear an ear protector because some sanders can create a loud sound that exceeds your safe range.
- Wearing a helmet is also necessary to avoid unexpected incidents.
Dust respirator mask
The Bottom Line
This article has eventually addressed the question: How to use a drum sander woodworking? In conclusion, the procedure includes five main steps to complete sanding a wood floor.
You should apply these step-by-step instructions to make your work easier. Moreover, while working, remember to pay attention to considerations and follow safety guides.
Hopefully, this article will be helpful for you. Thanks for reading, and see you in the next post!
