Popular Woodworking 2000-02 № 113, страница 67
Endurance Test Fein Random Orbit Sander This random orbit sander was the first Fein power tool we ever used. And because we really dislike sanding, we were pleased to make its acquaintance about three years ago. At first glance (at the tool and the price tag) we knew this was a well-made professional tool. What we weren't prepared for was the tool's remarkable performance. We first saw the MSf 636-1 sander at work on a piece of oak that was still in the rough. We were amazed at how quickly the large board was made ready to finish. We then thought, "OK, it can hog off material. But is it a finesse machine?" We then handed the operator a piece of walnut with a lacquer finish. He slapped on some micro-mesh sandpaper and polished the lacquer. We were converted. The Fein sander performs so well because it is part of a sanding system. Designed to be used with one of Fein's shop vacuums, the tool removes 98 percent of the dust created by the aggressive sanding motion, allowing the sandpaper to work only on the wood, not the dust. In addition, the dust extraction system keeps the sanding discs from clogging, again improving sanding speed and finish. The suction created by the dust extraction actually holds the tool to the work surface, requiring less hand pressure on the tool, reducing operator fatigue. The MSf 636-1 is a 380-watt right-angle tool, with a 5/l6" stroke, providing 7,500 orbits per minute under load. This is the largest stroke and the highest orbits per minute on the market. The 6" sanding discs use hook-and-loop paper. Coupled with the Turbo II dust wet/dry vacuum (model 9-55-13) the tool removes dust as small as 5 microns. The vacuum and sander work together. When you switch on the tool, the vacuum comes on automatically. When you switch off, the vacuum runs for a few seconds then switches off. The sander itself is not the quietest tool on the market, and the vibration will wear you out if you use it for several hours straight. It also takes some practice to keep the hose out of the way, even though it is one of the most flexible hoses we've ever used. This is an amazing tool, built to stand up to the rigors of any professional shop. If you hate sanding as much as we do, you'll appreciate this tool. The sander sells for $500, or you can purchase the system with vacuum for $670. This sander isn't for everybody, but if you work with glued-up solid panels, veneered panels or highly figured woods, this tool will pay for itself in time and effort. pw RESULTS FEiN RANDOM ORBiT SANDER NICE FEATURES • Aggressive • Virtually dust-free • Unparalleled finish quality • Commercial-quality durability • Well integrated dust "system" • 16' cord RECOMMENDED MODIFICATIONS • Improved noise reduction • Improved tool vibration • A really great sale Fein tools are available from Tool Crib at 800-358-3096. Or call Fein for a dealer near you 800-441-9878. about our endurance tests When a new tool hits the market we do our best to tell you what the benefits and pitfalls are with that tool.While this is good information, we know that the question you really want answered is,"How long will the tool last?" That's what this column is for.We regularly pick a tool we've used in our shop for at least a year that has stood up to our regular use.We make sure the tools we've tested here are virtually unchanged from the versions in the store today. So when you see a tool written up in here, it has passed the Popular Woodworking Endurance Test. —David Thiel, senior editor 10 Popular Woodworking February 2000 |
